Despite having some of the longest, coldest, and darkest winters, countries like Norway, Sweden, Finland, and Denmark continually rank among the world's happiest populations. So, what's their secret?
Just when we were beginning to see the light at the end of the tunnel, none of us could have imagined that we would still be dealing with new variants, restrictions and lockdowns two years into the pandemic. Our daily lives have been changed in so many ways, and going through another winter certainly comes with challenges.
Winter is a particularly challenging time in a pandemic, as most people tend to spend their time socializing indoors. But, as the concern over the effects on mental health and wellbeing grows, how can we stave off the winter blues?
The answer may lie in adopting some of the lifestyle concepts of our Scandinavian friends. We examine three aspects of Scandinavian culture that can improve your lifestyle and wellbeing as we head into another long, cold and lonely winter.
1 - Friluftsliv, the Norwegian art of living outdoors
The Nordic term Friluftsliv translates to “outdoor life,” but instead of the word equating to an activity, it’s a kind of lifestyle. Experts have long known that spending time outdoors makes you happy. The outdoor lifestyle isn’t just for extreme athletes or Instagram explorers. Friluftsliv can be as simple as going for a bike ride, taking a walk with friends, or enjoying a picnic in nature.
There’s a saying I learned when I first moved to Europe that is “there is no such thing as bad weather, just bad preparation.” If you’re appropriately-dressed and prepared, spending time outdoors is enjoyable no matter the weather.
You don’t need the best or most expensive gear, but it’s important to know how to layer up for different conditions and to choose quality well-fitting clothing and equipment. This is particularly important when you start venturing out with children, as it can make or break your (and their) experience.
2 - Hygge, the Danish obsession with coziness
The term Hygge has gained popularity in the last few years, along with minimalism and Scandinavian interior design trends. The art of Hygge encompasses everything from textures, lighting, indulging in food and drink, and, more importantly, being mindful in the process. It is the ultimate feeling of comfort, contentment, and connection.
For some, it’s the same feeling you get when you visit a cottage or cabin. It’s the sense of shelter and protection from the elements, with a roaring fireplace waiting when you come in from the cold. It's curling up under a blankets and reading in a cozy corner.
"Hygge is about having less and enjoying more. The pleasure of simply being. It is generous and celebratory. A way to remember the importance of the simple act of living itself" - Louisa Thomsen Brits
Learning to appreciate the beauty in simple things can offer a new perspective and help to make the colder months more enjoyable.
3 - Lagom, the Swedish concept of finding balance
If there's one word that defines our modern lives, it’s excess. We’re encouraged to function with a hustle mentality, with the belief that if we’re not doing too much, then we’re not doing enough. We push through exhaustion and despite how our lives may appear online, more and more people are stressed, strained, and burned out. As we reach our personal limits, many of us ask ourselves what changes we can make? How can we live better? A Lagom approach may be part of the answer.
Living in moderation, be it what we eat, what we wear, or how we live and work, might help our consumption-led society. One thing is for sure, being more mindful in our choices and our use of time will undoubtedly benefit our mental health and expectations. In stressful times, we can work on ways to be more mindful and remember that more is not always better, and celebrate the idea of being, doing, and having enough.
So the next time you’re feeling overwhelmed, take a deep breath and try integrating a lagom approach into your work and home life by being intentional, mindful, and doing your best to live better with less.
Taking the first step
The changing of the seasons is something to celebrate, with winter being one of the most magical of them all. The best way to get started is to change your mindset by learning to enjoy the simple things and embrace the quiet, stillness and beauty. If you live in an urban area, start with something as simple as talking regular walks in and trying different routes.
If you're prepared and have a positive attitude, winter just may just become your favourite season of them all.
What do you love most about winter? Let us know in the comments below!
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