SYNAPSE Podcast cu Ilinca & Chris | Ep 4 | Copenhagen – Hygge | A way of life
Coziness, Contentment, and Connectedness with Others and Nature
The mentality is what makes a population. People’s core values and the “why” behind everyday actions determines the very nature of our world’s cities, and Copenhagen is no exception. In this episode Chris and Ilinca discuss the ideology and mindset differences that they observed while visiting Denmark, starting with the beloved concept of “hygge”, an overall feeling of comfort and coziness that has gratitude as a driving force, and that is embedded into the mentality of most Danes.
Moreover, Denmark’s undeniable connection with nature and the outdoors is discussed, as well as the effects that this has upon individuals’ mental and physical health and on society as a whole. Copenhagen provides ample opportunities for people to connect with the elements, and despite the at times gloomy weather, Danes do not miss any opportunity to connect with their mesmerizing outdoor environment. However, this is only possible due to the government understanding the huge positive impact that nature can have on people’s lives, hence providing a wide variety of outstanding outdoor services that one can interact with.
The subject of mentality is expanded upon through the exploration of new nordic cuisine, and why it is important for top chefs in Denmark to keep their supply chains close and local. The overall whimsy and joy of the city of Copenhagen are relished in this exploration of introspective societal change.
About the Authors

Ilinca Sandu
Ilinca is the founder of the first student-run newspaper in her school. Her passion for literature, culture and media prompted her to bring up the idea to her school director, resulting in the creation of an innovative and thought-provoking club. She is fascinated by the relationship between the creative and the analytical, and discovering the intersectionality between her various areas of interest, such as poetry and business. As society becomes consumed with the ideas of consumerism and efficiency, Ilinca believes that humanity and compassion are the keys to creating powerful organisations that lead to positive social change.
Chris Sas
Chris’s contribution to founding the first student-run magazine of International School of Bucharest alongside Ilinca created a warm environment between students, teachers and parents. This “synapse” between the academic social sphere and current events, culture and creativity allowed for several initiatives such as the ‘Swimathon’ fundraiser – aimed to raise money for children with autism. His fascination with social and economic innovation and how it affects culture, politics and global affairs led to the desire to find outlets on how to inform and educate using mediums such as art. Innovation always manifests itself in culture. Chris is interested in exploring this phenomenon.

We are caught in today’s routine and we often forget tomorrow’s challenges. Is the rise of the superstorms, floods, and devastating fires a powerful enough alarm bell? What if climate change pulls us into this vortex, in a spiraling chaos towards our end? Can we save tomorrow?