Searching For The Next Hygge? Here Are Five More Global Philosophies That Worth a Try
A few years ago, the Danish phenomenon hygge became the must-chant mantra for the season of taking stock and self-care. The Scandi lifestyle, which encourages us all to cuddle up against the outside world, was adopted, and adapted, worldwide. As we settle into their 2022 with ample amounts of pandemic panic and annual holiday stress, we want to add to the wealth of wellness by offering new perspectives inspired by philosophies found in cultures across the globe on life, mindfulness, and happiness.
Many global languages have words that just can’t be translated and are intrinsic to their culture and identity. Take the Danish word hygge; it sums up the feeling of cozy contentment. From Brazil’s philosophy of kindness begets kindness, gentileza gera gentileza, to Finland’s sisu, meaning grit or perseverance, we’ve picked out five global life lessons for a delicate balance of mindfulness inner happiness—here’s a handy primer on each.
Art: Phung Banh | Copy: Lucas Hines
Gentileza
Spiritual home: Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
In a nutshell: In Brazil, people say to each other “Gentileza gera gentileza” meaning “Kindness begets kindness.” It is encouraged that we embrace kindness to invite the kindness that would benefit not only ourselves, but the world around us.
What to do:
Start small. Greet strangers in passing—you’d be surprised at how a simple gesture can radiate so much positivity to others and impact their day, as well as yours.
Be mindful and recognize those within your life who would benefit from words of empathy and acts of generosity, including yourself.
Art: Phung Banh | Copy: Lucas Hines
Ubuntu
Spiritual home: South Africa and other African countries
In a nutshell: This concept has its roots in African humanist philosophy. In particular, the South African Zulu culture, where the concept of community is the pillar of its society. It is the universal bond of sharing that connects all humanity. Without this sense of “togetherness,” there can be no community.
What to do:
To acknowledge our humanity and understand we are all one is what matters most. Genuine cooperation requires trust and empathy—only by supporting one another despite flaws can we foster a safe space for the collective, where others feel welcome to express themselves and, in turn, reflect generosity unto the greater community.
Remember, isolation is not the way. Reach out to those who need comfort and company to spread humility and love.
Art: Phung Banh | Copy: Lucas Hines
Meraki
Spiritual home: Greece
In a nutshell: To do something with joy, artistry, soulfulness, care, and love.
What to do:
Add meraki to any activity, and you’ll be happier doing it, from making your own meal instead of opting for store-bought or even spring cleaning.
Catalogue the things that drive you or give you the motivation to be better—create a vision board and start manifesting by making a list of the things you love to do.
Art: Phung Banh | Copy: Lucas Hines
Wu Wei
Spiritual home: China | Within Taoist 6th-century BC text: Tao Te Ching by Laozi
In a nutshell: Wu Wei encourages us to stop trying to force action and get comfortable doing less. Focusing less on the discomforts of life, Wu Wei knows oneself to exert energy and grow where opportunity feels most natural. It is all about finding prosperity through effortless intention.
What to do:
Have patience. Recognize that action is not always necessary and believe that the universe has your back.
Always be mindful of your thoughts by meditating to center yourself. It is only when you center yourself that you truly align with the rhythms of the elements both within and outside your body. It is an effortless surrender to the natural cycles of the world.
Art: Phung Banh | Copy: Lucas Hines
Sisu
Spiritual home: Finland
In a nutshell: At the core of sisu is the idea that in each of us there is more strength than meets the eye. Sisu is invoked by adversity and is more about finding energy in the moment than about long-term endurance, goal-setting, and achievement. As the idiom (literally translated) goes: "sisu will take you even through the grey stone."
What to do:
Finding strength in the moment is the key to sisu. For instance, sometimes the motivation to workout is hard to find. Getting yourself to just show up at the gym is a logical way to form a habit. This trick is as simple as putting on your exercise clothes and opening up your workout app or walking out the front door. Force yourself to get dressed and put yourself in the spot you need to be to just start your workout. Once you are there, there's a good chance you will push play on that workout video or start walking around the block.
Some of the greatest hurdles are in how you communicate with yourself when facing challenges. Talk to yourself with optimism and visualize your success.
