Why we should live a more Nordic way of life

Living a Nordic life.

As the reality of living through a winter with new restrictions, and getting ready to tackle a different sort of festive season, experts worry of a potential mental health crisis. So what can we learn from the world’s happiest region?

Ever heard of the saying “there’s no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothes”? It is a popular saying throughout the region and it’s one grounded in truth. ‘Friluftsliv’ is a word used by Swedes, Danes and Norwegians. It translates literally as ‘fresh-air life’, and is all about embracing the great outdoors whatever the weather. As long as they’re well wrapped up, Scandinavians see no problem with heading out into the cold.

This winter be active! Immerse yourself in nature. Bring on rain, clouds, snow and thunder, let’s embrace it all.

‘Hygge’ is perhaps a word we’re now all to familiar with, and although so often marketed as so, the concept isn’t something you can buy, it’s simply a feeling. Waking up and finishing the day to darkness can be a heavy ware on the mind, but not when we embrace the feeling of creating hygge; a comfortable and cosy environment. We’ve spent more time than normal at home during this strange year, and creating a warm, cosy and happy environment has never been more important. The power of a candle, fairy lights and a good book is not to be over looked. Whatever makes you feel cosy, make sure you prioritise time to make your home, more than just a place, but a happy environment.

Let’s shift our mindset and embrace the winter more than ever before. Kari Leibowitz, an American researcher who spent winter in Tromsø, Norway, said “maybe it’s the chance to light fires, even during the daytime. Maybe it’s an opportunity to get absorbed in cooking, or reading, or art - whatever it is, try to consciously focus on those things.”

We can get through this winter together, embrace it with us at Housel Bay.