Danes, often hailed as some of the happiest people on Earth, love nothing more than to hygge. That could mean reading a book while snuggling in a blanket, or a cozy night in with loved ones, laughing in the velvety candlelight with a cup of hot chocolate, gløgg (mulled wine) or coffee, depending on the time of day and year.Bun even they have rainy days. So what do they do, then, when there isn’t any help to be had from these cozy accompaniments? They say the magical word: ‘pyt’ [‘pyd’].

What do Danes say when things aren't so cosy?

Pyt is used to express that you accept a situation is out of your control, and even though you might be annoyed or frustrated, you decide not to waste unnecessary energy on thinking more about it.It is also used to comfort other people and diffuse unfortunate situations.

The meaning of Pyt

<ul><li>The power of 'pyt' had changed the atmosphere from potentially bleak to one of relief</li><li>'Pyt' was chosen as the nation's favourite word, which is a reflection of Danes' desire to take it easy and relax.</li><li>Children at kindergarten and primary school use the word to diffuse a tense situation</li><li>Visitors to Denmark can buy their own version of the ‘pyt’ button</li><li>These red-and-white plastic buttons resemble the ones that contestants in TV game shows press when they have the right answer</li><li>Press it and you’ll hear the word “pyt,” reminding you to step back from the situation and refocus.</li></ul>

Pyt: curiosities

Embracing the Danish concept of cosy and simple living

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The Definitive Guide to Hygge

Danes, often hailed as some of the happiest people on Earth, love nothing more than to hygge. But what do they do then when things aren’t so cosy? They say the magical word: ‘pyt’.

artsandculture

Society, Arts & Culture

What to do when hygge no longer works

What to do when hygge no longer works

Kari Coleman