Imagine a quiet discussion, around a hot coffee, where we are talking about the sweetness of spring or the granny apple pie. Nothing exceptional in appearance. However, this moment of simplicity could lower your cortisol level, this famous stress hormone.
“Hygge” conversations are inspired by Danish lifestyle
Indeed, this type of conversation, seemingly light, would have unsuspected benefits on our mind. In contrast to the tense everyday exchanges, hygge conversations are focusing on slowness, conviviality and emotional security. They have only one goal: to create a verbal cocoon in which everyone can breathe.
Why talk about hygge conversations? Simply because hygge is a Danish trend that we “could translate into “intimacy”, “well-being”, or more familiar “cocooning”“, explained to us psychologist Johanna Rozenblum, in a previous article. This style of conversation could thus become a real sweet weapon against anxiety.
What these exchanges really change in our body
To understand why these simple dialogues have such a strong impact, we must look at cortisol, this hormone synthesized by the adrenal glands. “”This is the stress hormone“Reminds us of psychologist Siyana Milnéva. She explains that her role is essential to alert us in a danger situation, but that excessive production due to repeated stresses, exhausts our mind as our body.
“”Stress, in small doses, can motivate us. But if it becomes chronic, it distinguishes our organization “ she continues.
And this is where hygge exchanges intervene. They do not seek to solve problems or to debate burning news. They create a bubble in which the brain deactivates its “alert” mode.
Result: the body naturally decreases its production of cortisol. And the benefits do not stop there. According to our expert, “The increase in positive emotions also stimulates the secretion of oxytocin and endorphins“Key hormones in the regulation of motivation and happiness.
How to adopt hygge conversations to feel better?
The advantage of this approach is that it is simple and can be integrated into everyday life, provided you respect certain simple ingredients:
- Take the time to exchange without objective or pressure;
- Talking about light and pleasant things: weather, recipes, memories …
- Create a warm setting (hot drink, quiet location);
- Cultivate active listening, without judgment or interruption
These conversations can thus complete other levers to reduce stress naturally: good quality of sleep, regular but soft physical activity, a balanced diet, sufficient hydration or even listening to soothing music.
“”When you feel loved, supported, and in safety, stress decreases“says Siyana Milnéva. This type of gentle interaction can therefore be a precious tool for those who suffer from chronic fatigue or burnout.