Take a quick search of hygge on the internet and you’ll find thousands of images of cosy fires, cups of hot chocolate and fluffy blankets. This Danish word (pronounced ‘hoo-guh’) takes centre-stage as a way of life when it comes to mindful living. But as 2017 is still trying to grasp this foreign word, there is already a new kid on the block: the Swedish lagom, where life is all about finding the perfect balance. So, from the comfort of hygge to the balance of lagom, let’s see what the Scandinavians are trying to tell us about living a healthy, fulfilling life.

By Jana du Plessis

Hygge huh?
The Danes have been living and perfecting the concept of hygge for as long as they know. It’s difficult to define, yet somewhat easier to understand. Hygge can be found in a bowl of hearty porridge, sharing a rich, dark beer with a friend or going on a comfy bike ride with your little one accompanying you in the side car. It is more than one simple act and cannot be restricted to a single definition. It is a philosophy to slow down, indulge in a nourishing way and care for the soul. Who wouldn’t enjoy that?

Looming lagom
Now that the feasting, relaxing and hygge-ing of the holiday season are over, we all yearn for a little more balance when it comes to our work, health and daily life, and this is where we should welcome lagom with open arms. As the mighty ol’ cloud of knowledge predicts, 2017 will see more and more of this Swedish word being hashtagged and shared across communication platforms. Most dictionaries will define lagom as ‘just right’, meaning not too much and not too little. It’s all about finding the ultimate balance between where your needs are satisfied and your wants aren’t over gratified.

Living the Scandi-life
While it’s easy to leave hygge hanging in the past, it might be a good idea to hold on to it a little longer (despite what the trends may tell you). We all need to take it slow, rejuvenate and unwind from time to time in order to maintain our wellbeing throughout the year. Whether it’s a glass of wine over the weekend or reading your favourite novel before tucking into bed, hygge is a way to look after more than just your physical health, but mental and emotional health as well. By combining this type of self-care with the principle of lagom, achieving a personal equilibrium, you will set yourself up for a thriving life in regard to your overall well-being.

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When yet another customer in front of you in the queue orders a cappuccino with almond milk instead of regular cow’s milk, can you not also but wonder how the trend for milk alternatives has become so popular? And should you also be drinking them?

By Jana du Plessis

Daily dose of vitamin D (and other nutrients)
Cow’s milk is a good source of vitamin D and calcium, both of which contribute to bone growth and development. Potassium, the nutrient bananas are known for, can be linked to a reduction in blood pressure and ultimately leads to a healthier heart. B-vitamins provide energy, and protein forms the building blocks for your muscles. Combine all of these nutrients in a glass of creamy milk and you have yourself a well-balanced, low-sugar drink to sip on. Still, there must a reason why some would pass this up…

What’s wrong with cow milk, you ask?
One of the great arguments against cow’s milk is the sugar, called lactose, it contains. Lactose have become a common source of food-intolerance due to many people lacking enough of the enzyme lactase, which breaks lactose down. As a result, the milk’s sugars are left behind in the small intestine, leading to fermentation and uncomfortable symptoms such as bloating and gas. Aside from those steering clear of cow’s milk due to a vegan or animal-free diet, a sensitivity to milk necessitates a change in dairy consumption.

Still going nuts for milk
Of course no-one can imagine their morning cuppa without a spash of liquid white gold (not to mention that after-dinner cozy hot chocolate). So, the quest for milk substitutions was launched in full force and the findings did not disappoint. Besides soy milk, which has been around for many years already, nut and seed milks are proving to be a delicious way to add some creamy deliciousness to a flavoured drink. A simple blend of water and nuts or seeds is strained to produce a milky liquid that very much resembles the real McCoy.

The nutritional difference
Nut, seed and soya milks prove to be the better choice for those suffering from lactose intolerance, but for others it’s important to note that they do not contain the same nutritional value as the cow’s variety. On the one hand, nut and seed milks generally have a much lower protein and calcium content. While on the other hand, these milk alternatives have no cholesterol or saturated fats as cow’s milk has. Always first consider your personal nutritional needs, and if subbing regular milk with nut milks will benefit your health before removing a food item with potential nutritional benefits.

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