With the recent popularity of Nordic lifestyles such as Hygge and Lagom, it was inevitable that a new wellness concept would develop, and we have this with our very own Scottish version – Coorie. Described as a sense of comfort, charm and tranquillity wrapped up in Scottish heritage and traditions, the notion of Coorie evokes imagery of rural country landscapes, crackling log burning fires and snug sheepskin textures.
Coorie first came to my attention when I was gifted the ‘wee’ delightful book The Art of Coorie written by journalist Gabriella Bennett. In this book, Gabriella depicts Coorie as the essence of Scottishness for “one that looks forward while also paying respect to our oldest traditions”. The Scottish word Coorie originally signified cosying or nestling into a loved one, but in this book, Gabriella broadens the meaning and understanding of Coorie to describe a contemporary Scottish lifestyle that is focused on contentment and the satisfactory balance between wild and atmospheric landscapes and the intimate warmth of indoors.
There are four main ideas that stood out to me as embodying a Coorie lifestyle:
STAYCATION
With recent economic and political disarray (to say the least!) many of us have decided to remain in the UK for our holidays. Within Scotland, where there is a wealth of stunning scenery, breath-taking wildlife and the stillness of the countryside that feels a million miles away from the chaos of our everyday lives. A staycation is the perfect Coorie answer to a very modern problem, as we welcome the crisp country air and lack of phone signal for idealistic escapism. Scotland hosts some of the most naturally beautiful and dramatic landscapes and bringing a little Corrie to our holiday means having the freedom to explore the wilderness, taking the time to discover the new, vivid and spectacular that we may have otherwise, never been able to appreciate.
MODERN TEXTURES
Coorie incorporates the rich traditions and extraordinary heritage of Scotland, and what is more Scottish than a lively and bold tartan to brighten up your space. Gone are the dowdy, dull and quite simple old-fashioned tartans, these days Scotland hosts various designers and brands that have invigorated the patterns and textures, producing some marvellous, notable new designs. Harris Tweed in particular has rejuvenated this style, and in keeping with the Coorie movement the designs are contemporary, chic and characterful.
KEEP IT LOCAL
Ever aware of the environmental effects of our consummation we are embracing local markets, organic produce and independent shops more than ever. Coorie welcomes this notion with an emphasis on community, supporting our local shops and the joy of spending in our home towns. One of my favourite things about the Scottish summer months are farmer’s markets that roll into town on a Sunday morning. It is here you can select locally grown fresh strawberries, home baked bread and hand-reared butchered meat, a diverse selection of Scottish ingredients and regional delicacy.
HOGMANAY & BURNS NIGHT
The end of one year and beginning of another bring about a few Scottish traditions that embody the spirit and charm of Coorie. Hogmanay signals the close of long, bitterly cold winter nights, when we come together to show gratitude and wish each other well over a few drinks and sing a rousing rendition of Robert Burn’s Auld Lang Syne as the clock strikes midnight. First Footing is a charming Scottish tradition in which you spend the first day of the new year visiting your family, friends and loved ones, followed by Burns Night later in the month in which we celebrate the life and works of Robert Burns. Pour a whiskey, serve up some haggis and recite your favourite Burn’s poem in the comfort and warmth of your Coorie home.
Jalan Interior 