As someone captivated by the Scandinavian lifestyle, I find their emphasis on gender equality, shared parental leave, children’s rights, and accessible healthcare incredibly appealing. The outdoor culture, appreciation for childhood, and a relaxed attitude towards relationships are just a few aspects that make these societies stand out. The principle that everyone deserves fair treatment is both cherished by citizens and reinforced through public policy.
Scandinavia’s unique traditions, from daily outdoor activities regardless of the weather to the practice of napping babies outdoors, are fascinating. Some customs might seem odd—like the challenge of sitting on an ant hill—but many are undoubtedly ingenious. For instance, a culture that has a term for “getting intoxicated at home in your pajamas” (thank you, Finland) clearly knows how to embrace leisure. It’s no surprise that Scandinavians report some of the highest happiness levels globally, inspiring me to indulge in Swedish Fish and frequent IKEA.
One question that lingers in my mind is how our Nordic friends cope with their notoriously harsh winters. Norway, the northernmost of the Scandinavian nations, averages only four hours of daylight per day during winter. I struggle with a week of dreary rain, so how do these resilient people manage months of cold and darkness without succumbing to despair? The secret lies in their approach: they celebrate winter as a season to be enjoyed.
Embracing winter means recognizing all the delightful activities it offers: skiing, sledding, ice skating, and holiday festivities. This is also the perfect time for cozy pursuits like knitting, sipping hot chocolate, or enjoying a hearty meal of pea soup or pancakes. Most importantly, when winter’s chill can trigger the blues, engaging in radical self-care becomes essential.
Scandinavian Traditions to Enhance Your Winter
To help those who find winter daunting, here are several Scandinavian traditions that can enhance the season:
Stay Social
In Scandinavia, solitude during winter is not the norm. Swedes frequently participate in communal events, such as the winter celebration of Lucia or visiting friends for meals. The tradition of fika, a coffee gathering, is vital for social interaction and well-being. Research shows that socializing significantly contributes to both mental and physical health.
Sweeten the Season
With the cold months come festive treats that are embraced without guilt. In Scandinavian culture, indulging in sweet delights like creamy hot chocolate, saffron raisin buns (saffranbullar), and homemade goodies is a cherished part of life.
Stay Active
While I often find it difficult to exercise in winter, Scandinavians prioritize physical activity. Nearly half of Sweden’s population is involved in sports teams or clubs. Given that regular exercise can alleviate depression, staying active is a key to enjoying winter.
Get Outside
The Norwegian saying, “There’s no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing,” encourages people to venture outdoors regardless of conditions. Fresh air is a daily necessity for Scandinavians and can significantly elevate mood, so don’t hesitate to bundle up and take a brisk walk.
Soak Up the Sun
During brief appearances of sunlight, Swedes flock to parks, soaking up the rays, which boosts serotonin levels—a natural mood enhancer—after weeks of darkness.
Enjoy the Sauna
Saunas serve as social hubs in Norway, where many apartment complexes include communal saunas. These warm spaces not only relieve stress but also offer a chance to connect with friends. If a sauna is inaccessible, a hot shower can provide similar comfort.
Brighten Your Space
Despite the snowy landscape, many Swedish homes feature fresh flowers, such as vibrant tulips, to combat winter gloom.
Create a Cozy Atmosphere
For those who prefer staying in, the Danish concept of hygge (pronounced hoo-gah) promotes warmth and comfort. Defined by the Oxford English Dictionary as “a quality of cosiness and comfortable conviviality that engenders a feeling of contentment or well-being,” hygge involves candles, soft throws, and cozy spaces to unwind with a book and a warm drink.
While it can be challenging to maintain a positive outlook during the winter months, adopting a Scandinavian mindset can help. Embrace this time to treat yourself to baked goods, socialize with friends, and prioritize self-care. And remember, lighting candles—lots of them—can create a warm and inviting environment.
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In summary, winter need not be a season of despair. By adopting Scandinavian practices, you can transform cold days into opportunities for joy, connection, and self-care.