Have you ever felt like your day-to-day life has become too busy, too cluttered, and too exhausting? Many of us in the western hemisphere, especially in the USA and Canada, seek refuge from such a hectic life. Fortunately, our friends from Europe can show us a thing or two about living more slowly and mindfully. They've put names to certain habits and concepts that are deeply ingrained in their culture and we could try copying.

Let's take a look at a few European lifestyle words that introduce us to their mindful way of life. These concepts don't have exact English translations, so read on for European inspiration!

 

Festina lente: Make haste slowly

Pronounced like "fehs-tina lehn-tay"

Origin: Italy

It may sound oxymoronic, but to "make haste slowly" means to move forward with thoughtfulness and deliberation. Whether it's a personal project at home or a big task at your job, it makes sense to avoid rushing things and instead proceed with consistent yet well-thought-out steps. In other words, measure twice, cut once. We like to think of festina lente when cooking, cleaning, or doing renovations. Always ask: what are the most prudent, least wasteful steps to do this?

Wall art pictured above: Personalized Rustic Style Family Name Premium Panoramic Canvas

 

Fika: Coffee with loved ones

Pronounced like "fee-ka"

Origin: Sweden

Fika is both a noun and a verb referring to sitting down for coffee and pastries. But it's much more than just a coffee break. This custom is more about the company of friends, family, or colleagues during coffee time, catching up with them or just enjoying a nice pause together. Among Swedes, fika is even incorporated in the workday as a way to promote wellbeing at work.

Wall art pictured above: "But First, Coffee" Premium Canvas

 

Flâner: Strolling without agenda

Pronounced like "flah-nay"

Origin: France

To flâner is to walk around the city aimlessly and without a set destination. In a world where busy-ness is considered an accomplishment, aimless wandering may seem like a waste of time. But in French custom, simply walking around can be a profound way to free yourself from materialism and modern pressures, all while observing the architectural and cultural changes in your neighborhood.

 

Hygge: Warm coziness

Pronounced like "hoo-gah"

Origin: Denmark, Norway

Hygge is a feeling or situation where you feel cozy, relaxed, and content. Perhaps the best scenario to encapsulate this concept is curling up by the fire with warm cocoa by your side. Hygge can also be, for example, when you're strolling with a loved one on a crisp autumn day, or when you're enjoying a warm bath without hurry, with your favorite candles and music around.

Blanket pictured above: Personalized Mr. & Mrs. With Name And Year Premium Fleece Blanket

 

Il dolce far niente: The sweetness of doing nothing

Pronounced like "ihl dohl-chay far nee-en-tay"

Origin: Italy

How beautiful it is to just be -- to hurry for nothing, to sit comfortably and just relish the pleasant moment. This is dolce far niente. It's the polar opposite of the modern lifestyle that many of us are used to, where every single second has to be filled with an activity or a to-do item. Practicing simple nothingness is a form of self-care, allowing our minds and bodies to rest from our struggles.

Wall art pictured above: Personalized "It's So Good To Be Home" Premium Canvas

 

Jakoś to będzie: It will work out

Pronounced like "ya-kosh toe ben-jay"

Origin: Poland

This Polish phrase is a great interpretation of hope: jakoś to będzie literally means "somehow, it will be" or "it will work out in the end." But this doesn't mean you passively let things happen to you. To the Polish people, it means that when things get difficult, there are still some things you can actively do. There may be things you can't control -- let go of those. But there are still things you can act on -- do those. That's how you prepare for a good resolution.

 

Lagom: Just the right amount

Pronounced like "lah-gom"

Origin: Sweden

Not too little, not too much -- juuust right. That's the meaning of the Swedish word lagom. It can describe many lifestyle situations with ideal moderation, such as a good work-life balance or a healthy diet. Our favorite example is when a home has lagom style, meaning its decor is not too cluttered but not too bare -- just a perfect balance of clean and comfortable.

Metal art pictured above: Personalized Family Tree Custom Metal Sign

 

These European words and concepts are so inspiring to us, and we hope they encourage you as well to create a beautiful, mindful life. It doesn't have to be an overnight change -- just being aware that these concepts exist may help you slow down and readjust.

If you liked the decor pieces featured here, browse GearDen.com for more! We have lots of customized wall art, metal signs, pillows, and blankets for your home. Here's to your happy home life!