Hemmottelua

Hemmottelua is a Finnish noun meaning pampering, indulgence, or spoiling. It refers to acts that give someone or oneself extra comfort, attention, or luxury beyond ordinary care. Common expressions include treating someone with special services, high-quality foods, soft textiles, or leisurely time, as well as services like massages or spa visits.

In everyday life hemmottelua is used to describe efforts to show affection or relieve stress. It can occur in family life, romantic relationships, or caregiving situations for children, partners, or elderly relatives. While often perceived positively as a sign of care, excessive or constant hemmottelua may impede independence, create dependency, or strain resources.

Economically, hemmottelua overlaps with wellness and consumer-service sectors. It commonly appears in marketing of cosmetics, spa experiences, accommodation, or premium gifts and experiences. Cultural attitudes toward hemmottelua vary; it is generally accepted as a normal part of balancing well-being and daily routines, yet some contexts criticize overt indulgence as frivolous or wasteful.

The verb form is hemmotella, meaning to pamper or indulge someone; self-pampering is sometimes called itsehemmottelu and is linked to self-care practices such as rest, leisure activities, and mindful spending.

See also: hoiva, huolenpito, itsehemmottelu, hemmotteluun liittyvät käytännöt.