Hygge in Iran? The Lived Experience of Physical Activity of Older Adults in the Neighborhood Environment in Tehran

Abstract

Physical activity is considered one of the most important components of daily activities and a healthy lifestyle for the older adult to achieve well-being. The purpose of this study is to explore older adults’ views on physical activity in the neighborhood environment. This study is qualitative and interpretive in nature. In this research, thematic analysis was used to identify, analyze and report patterns in the qualitative data, employing Braun and Clarke’s six-step inductive approach. Twenty-four active seniors in the Ekhtiarieh neighborhood of Tehran were interviewed in person. The purpose of the interview was to probe into the deep layers of the interviewees’ mindset and obtain valid information. The analysis of the data yielded Hygge as the global theme, and the three main themes of joyful emotions and behavior (Wellness Hygge), perceived social support (Neighborhood Hygge), and safety and security, as well as eight sub-themes. Although Hygge derives Danish culture and its national identity, The creation of a Hygge subculture in the neighborhood through physical activity can be considered as a collective effort to deal with the contradictions in the society with happiness. The findings of this research have been chosen as inspiring concepts for a better and healthier life, to reproduce simple cultural elements that do not exist in the situation of the local culture, by borrowing from the the culture of Denmark, the happiest country in the world.

Keywords

• active aging
• joyful emotions and behavior
• perceived social support
• safety
• security