Embracing Mys: The Swedish Way of Cozy Living

Jan 22

In recent years, the world has fallen in love with Scandinavian lifestyle concepts like hygge, lagom, and now, the Swedish tradition of mys. While Denmark's hygge has been widely celebrated as the ultimate form of coziness, Swedish mys offers a unique take on creating warmth, connection, and comfort in everyday life.

So what exactly is mys? How does it compare to other Nordic philosophies, and how can you incorporate more Swedish mysa into your life? Let's explore this delightful way of embracing coziness, togetherness, and simple pleasures.

feminine hands hold a stoneware mug in front of their body. They are wearing a thick knit sweater with long billowy sleeves

What is Mys?

In Sweden, mys (pronounced "mees") refers to the art of creating a cozy, enjoyable atmosphere to be enjoyed alone or with loved ones. It's about savoring quiet moments, embracing warmth, and fostering a sense of well-being.

The verb form, mysa, means "to be cozy" or "to enjoy a comforting experience." Unlike special occasions that call for elaborate preparations, mysa is a state of mind that Swedes cultivate daily, from a relaxed evening on the couch with a warm blanket to a slow morning with a steaming cup of coffee.

While winter is the ideal season to embrace cozy living, this concept extends beyond creating winter comfort. It's a year-round lifestyle that emphasizes taking time to enjoy life and be present in the moment, no matter the season.

a sign posted to a wood board reads hygge with the dictionary definition. The surroundings are softly lit by candle light

Mys vs. Hygge: How Are They Different?

While mys and hygge share the common thread of creating warmth and comfort, there are subtle differences between them:

Hygge (Danish) is often associated with aesthetics, such as soft lighting, rustic interiors, and curated, cozy spaces.
Mys (Swedish) is less about décor and more about the experience and the feeling of togetherness, joy, and relaxation.
Hygge is about slowing down, while mysa is about fully enjoying each moment, whether it's savoring a cup of tea you made for yourself or an evening gathering with friends and family.

If hygge is a perfectly styled reading nook, mys is the feeling of curling up in it with a book, a candle flickering nearby, and no rush to be anywhere else.

a white piece of paper has the word Lagom written in script font followed by the words not too little, not too much, just right. The paper sits on a table with a chocolatey dessert and fork

The Connection Between Mys and Lagom

Another important Swedish concept is lagom, which means "just the right amount" or "not too much, not too little." This philosophy of balance and moderation shapes Swedish culture, from work-life balance to home design.

While lagom encourages finding the right balance, mys is about fully embracing moments of warmth and joy, even if it means indulging a little.

For example:

A lagom coffee break might mean drinking a small cup routinely to start your day the way you like
A mys coffee break is about truly savoring the experience, pairing it with a sweet treat and great conversation.

Both concepts work hand in hand: lagom keeps life balanced, while mys ensures it remains deeply enjoyable.

a cozy coffee table filled with candles, dried flowers, a cup of coffee, open book, pens and journals. A blanket and pillow is also visible in the background

How to Bring More Mys into Everyday Life

Embracing Swedish mysa is about cultivating moments of joy and comfort throughout your day. Here's how:

1. Create a Cozy Atmosphere

Use soft lighting—candles, fairy lights, and warm lamps.
Wrap yourself in plush blankets or knitted socks in the colder months.
Play calming music or enjoy the peaceful sound of silence.

a cardamom bun and a cup of tea sit on a white table.

2. Slow Down and Savor the Moment

Enjoy a slow, indulgent fika (Swedish coffee break) with a warm beverage and a sweet pastry.
Cook a homemade meal with wholesome ingredients you love and truly savor every bite.
Watch the sunrise or sunset without distractions.

friends gathered outside at a dining table. There are fairly lights strung above them and musical instruments and blankets in the foreground

3. Seasonal Mys: Winter vs. Summer

Winter mys: Cozy nights by the fire, sipping glögg (Swedish mulled wine), watching snowfall.
Summer mys: Long outdoor dinners, reading in the sun, enjoying nature's beauty.

bath tub with a shelf. on the shelf is a candle, books, and a cup of tea

4. Mysa Alone or With Others

Solo mys: A hot bath, a comforting book, quiet self-reflection.
Social mys: Movie nights, warm conversations over tea, laughter around a shared meal.

No matter the season or situation, there's always room for a little more mys in life.

healing circle set up at Mongata Healing Center

Experience Mys at Mongata Healing Center

At Mongata Healing Center, we believe in creating spaces that embody mysa—places where you can slow down, embrace stillness, and find comfort in life's simple pleasures.

Whether through a guided sound bath, a breathwork session, or a Human Design reading, we offer experiences that encourage relaxation, connection, and mindfulness. If you're ready to invite more Swedish mysa into your life, we'd love to welcome you into our community. Discover our upcoming workshops and retreats and start your journey toward a cozier, more balanced life.

candles on a desk. a window is visible behind but it is blurry due to a shallow depth of field

Final Thoughts

In a world that often glorifies busyness, Swedish mys reminds us to pause and truly enjoy the moment. Whether it's through a candlelit evening at home, a warm embrace from a loved one, or simply sipping tea in solitude, the practice of mysa invites more comfort and joy into our lives.

So, how will you bring more mys into your day today?

Valarie Budayr

Valarie Budayr is not a licensed Medical Doctor. To see her credentials as a certified Transformational Human Design Coach, Certified Sound Practitioner, Trauma-Informed Pause Breathwork Facilitator, and Mindfulness Teacher, visit her bio. The information and services provided on this website are intended for general wellness purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Mongata services are complementary practices and are not a substitute for professional medical care. If you have any health concerns or are seeking medical advice, please consult with your physician.

https://www.mongata.org/about-valarie