## The 7 rules of a perfect home __1. Pleasant smells__ The fastest way to activate emotions is to stimulate the sense of smell. Scent is the ideal way to create an atmosphere of peace, happiness, and security in your home. Scented candles, a few drops of lavender oil on your pillow, or the wonderful smell of freshly ground coffee beans can help lift the mood. __2. Warm lighting__ A fireplace is delightful, but not always possible. Warm-colored lighting and candles scattered around the house will have a similar effect. __3. Accessories__ Fluffy blankets for cold winter days, comfortable couches, or a vintage rocking chair will create a peaceful atmosphere. __4. Plants__ An important part of the hygge philosophy is the invigorating energy of nature. Make sure there are plenty of green plants in the house. And when it rains, open the windows and let the fresh smell of wet earth into the house. __5. Pastel colors__ Colors affect the human psyche, so a home in the spirit of hygge suggests calm pastel tones that make it easier to concentrate. Avoid very dark or overly bold colors in the decor. __6. Home comforts__ The Danes believe that home is the source of true happiness and peace. Many Danish families organize activities, games, dinners, and parties at home. The main goal is to spend a pleasant time, both in the company of loved ones and alone. __7. Safe environment__ Satisfy the emotional need for protection with a comfortable bed, a small winter garden, and heavy quilts during the cooler months. ## What are the health benefits? A hygge atmosphere improves our mental and physiological well-being by increasing the synthesis of serotonin, the happiness hormone. __It calms the mind.__ An endless to-do list makes our brain work nonstop, mentally jumping from one task to the next. A cozy atmosphere relaxes and reduces stress levels. __It improves sleep.__ Sleep problems are often caused by intrusive thoughts or an uncomfortable bedroom environment. A warm blanket and a comfortable pillow will create a cozy cocoon around you and help you get a good night's sleep. We tend to spend a lot of time on the computer or watching TV late at night, which disrupts sleep. But hygge encourages reading books, playing board games, or just hanging out with friends. Avoid screens or monitors before bedtime. __It relieves fatigue.__ Evenings in a hygge atmosphere will help relieve daytime fatigue, allowing you to enjoy life every day instead of just two days off a week. __It helps prevent depression.__ The hygge philosophy is not only the comfort of the home but also close companionship with friends. Friendship and warmth received from loved ones are especially important for psychological comfort. __It regulates weight.__ Hygge turns eating into a ritual and implies a careful choice of dishes, leisurely meals, and concentration on the quality of food rather than on the quantity eaten. You don't have to buy expensive home accessories to create a hygge atmosphere in your own life. The main goal is to learn to appreciate simple pleasures as well as moments of comfort and joy.