Instead of Hygge: What Is Lagom and How to Add Swedish Wellbeing to Your Life

Scandinavia is once again setting the course for life values. Yesterday we followed the hygge trend, emulating the Danes by buying candles, wrapping ourselves in wool throws, and not depriving ourselves of small pleasures. Today, hygge is being replaced by lagom, where Swedish aesthetics of moderation are at the forefront.

Some Facts

• Lagom means 'enough', 'just right', and the term Lagomlandet (literally 'the land of lagom') informally refers to Sweden.
  
• The concept of lagom traces its roots back to the Viking era. The Swedish ethics of moderation originated when distant ancestors of modern Swedes, passing around a cup of drink, would each take only as much as they wanted, never forgetting about others.
  
• One of the first to announce the trend of lagom was Vogue magazine, which published an article about this new trend at the beginning of the year.
  
• The number of posts with the hashtag #lagom on Instagram has recently approached 40,000.

What Is It?

Lagom is a philosophy or rather, a mindset based on the characteristics of Swedish mentality and daily habits of people in this country.

Lagom suggests adopting the centuries-old experience of pragmatic Swedes to, first and foremost, approach every life issue with rational moderation – from the size of breakfast portions to one's attitude toward work, and secondly, live in harmony with oneself and others. Finally, learn to solve ecological problems. Starting with yourself, of course.

Does that mean a lagom lifestyle is about saving and restrictions?

Not exactly. Lagom är bäst – Swedes say, which literally means 'the right amount is best' or 'golden mean'. Lagom is about buying three chairs instead of six if you live alone or with a cat, and meeting friends at cafes or at the most welcoming member's place. Or buying six chairs instead of three if you're hosting.

How to find your golden mean?

It's important to rely on personal needs and live without excesses, but also not be greedy. Set aside some time daily to reflect on yourself and your lifestyle, and you will understand what you need and in what quantity.

By the way, why not use the traditional Swedish fika for this? Take a break from work every two hours and relax for fifteen minutes over a cup of coffee. This ritual is incredibly popular in Sweden and very much in the spirit of lagom.

How does a lagom-style interior look?

First and foremost, it's an arrangement designed for long-term use. The race for the latest fashion trends contradicts Swedish views on the ideal interior. Buy only reliable timeless furniture and choose quality neutral finishes. Yes, sometimes it's expensive, but such investments pay off many times over.

Pay attention to furniture created by Scandinavian designers – it is understated, doesn't shout out loud, and is more background than accent, but always comfortable and most importantly, durable. Or take a look at our online store: we've picked just such pieces.

Grey sofa, Laska Family

Dining table Tulip

Chair Bertoia Side

Wooden leg chair

Brown corner sofa

Grey dresser Dasty

Three-light table lamp

Console table, Eiccholtz

Armchair, SITS

What about ecology?

Beneath the usual Swedish question 'is it really necessary to have this?' lies a desire to reduce energy and water consumption that could have been spent on manufacturing a particular product. Therefore, making the world more eco-friendly is not just high-sounding words but one of the core principles of lagom.

And this is within everyone's reach. Sort your waste, recycle paper, visit flea markets, refresh and extend the life of old armchairs and dressers. Reduce consumption, reuse, and recycle – that's what lagomers advocate.

Who are they? Where can you find lagom ideas and life hacks?

Among the most active followers of lagom is the Swedish furniture leader IKEA. Within the Live Lagom project, the company holds workshops and helps select products for a balanced, eco-friendly life. Participants in the project share their experiences: short videos and brochures can be found on the website.

Many believe that the minimalist IKEA, with all its products made with care for the environment down to the last screw, is the embodiment of lagom. In fact, the founder of the company, Ingvar Kamprad, can be considered the main lagomer. The billionaire buys clothes on sale, doesn't think it necessary to spend money on expensive plane tickets and flies economy, and his house is decorated with IKEA furniture – all just like ordinary Swedes.

What if you still want candles, throws, and comfort?

Yes, please! First of all, add live plants. Lagomers not only decorate their homes with them but also actively grow them right there. Greenery in stylish planters is a simple and eco-friendly way to liven up even the most modest setting.

In decor, as in everything else, the key is a sense of moderation and naturalness. Examples of proper lagom accessories can be found in our selection.

Iron wall clock

Two drawers and tray

Chiaro 'Bernau' table lamp

Set of 2 candlesticks

Norvegia blanket

Wooden screen

Rolling wooden box

White vase with mint paper effect

Wall mirror 'Shelby'

What to read?

One of the latest releases is the book The Swedish Art of Living a Balanced, Happy Life by Niki Brantmark – it was published about a month ago. Her authorship is the founder of the popular interior design blog My scandinavian home.

There is also specialized periodical literature. The journal Lagom, founded by British spouses, has been discussing how to remove unnecessary items from your life and focus on truly important things for the past three years.

What if English is a challenge?

Pay attention to the bestseller 'Lagom. Swedish Secrets of a Happy Life' by Englishwoman Elizabeth Carlsson – it is available for Russian-speaking readers.