6 Simple Self-Care Practices from Other Cultures for You to Try

I used to hate the cold. I dreaded the coming of every winter when I lived in New York and Boston, and complained through gritted teeth through the coldest months every year. It wasn’t just the drop in temperature; it was the boredom of being holed up inside with less and less daylight. I used to wonder how the Scandinavians could possibly stand their long winters and short days.

The five happiest countries in the world are almost always cold, Nordic nations. How do they do it?

Imagine my surprise when I learned that, in 2016, Denmark had ranked as the happiest nation in the world in the World Happiness Report. Then, Finland became number one for the next three years, with Norway and Sweden never far behind. In fact, the five happiest countries in the world are almost always cold, Nordic nations. How do they do it?

Of course, there are likely many factors involved. These countries often have less income inequality, greater oil wealth, and breathtaking natural landscapes. But I wondered if there were any specific Nordic secrets to happiness and wellness—even during winter!

My exploration not only uncovered some lovely ideas from Denmark and Sweden but it also sparked my interest in how people from around the world practice wellness. I was especially curious about how people have traditionally embraced wellness before it became a consumerist buzzword to describe expensive potions in bottles or fancy supplements peddled by celebrities.

These wellness practices are based in tradition, supported by science, and best of all, available to most people.

Today, I want to share some fascinating wellness practices and philosophies I learned about. They’re based in tradition, supported by science, and best of all, available to most people.

1. Danish “hygge”

Let’s start our journey in Denmark, the country that consistently ranks among the top five happiest nations in the world.

No wonder the Danes are happy in winter!

Here, the Danish believe in hygge (pronounced “hoo-gah”), which loosely translates to “coziness.” The word originated from an Old Norwegian word meaning “well-being,” and it captures all that is cozy, warm, and enjoyable. Curling up under a soft blanket while holding a warm mug of cocoa is hygge. Chatting with friends and family around a fire is hygge. And simply enjoying the glow of a candle is hygge.

No wonder the Danes are happy in winter! This concept of hygge not only gives practical inspiration for how to enjoy life—...

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