Looking for a fulfilling and balanced existence? Consider adopting Skandi living habits. Skandi nations are celebrated for promoting hygge and balance. Incorporating Skandi wisdom can enrich your daily routine, whether you’re in Skandi or elsewhere.

1. Step into Comfort

It is customary for those who reside in Skandi homes to remove their outdoor footwear upon entering their home. This practice promotes a hygienic and tranquil living space, free from outdoor debris and pollutants. By leaving one’s shoes at the door, individuals are able to fully relax and enjoy the comforts of their abode without the worry of tracking in unwanted dirt and germs.

2. Celebrate without Regrets

The people of Skandi nations have a deep appreciation for marking momentous occasions with sweet indulgences such as cakes and desserts. They believe in living life to the fullest and savouring every moment without fretting over the caloric content of their delectable treats.

3. Embrace the Outdoors

Friluftsliv is a Norwegian concept that describes the idea that life is best lived outside, and it is deeply ingrained in the Scandinavian lifestyle[1][2].

The phrase “open-air living” translates literally. It was first popularised in the 1850s by Henrik Ibsen, a Norwegian playwright and poet. Ibsen used the phrase to describe the benefits of spending time in remote locations to improve one’s spiritual and physical well-being. [2]. Friluftsliv is not just a thing, but a whole philosophy and a way of life that is incorporated into the national identity of Norway[1]. Here are some ways that embracing the outdoors can benefit your well-being:

Mood improvement:

Even a few minutes spent outdoors can work wonders for your mood and overall well-being[1].

Physical health:

Spending time outdoors can improve physical health by increasing vitamin D levels, reducing inflammation, and improving sleep quality[2].

Mental health:

Being in nature can reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, and improve cognitive function[3].

Connection to nature:

Friluftsliv is about connecting with nature and being part of the cultural “we” that binds us together as human beings as a part of nature[4].

Simple living:

Friluftsliv is about living a simple life in nature without destroying or disturbing it.

Friluftsliv involves a diverse range of outdoor activities. These can include seasonal sports, volunteering, and other pursuits. You don’t have to be Norwegian or even Scandinavian to embrace friluftsliv.

You simply have to be able to get outside your four walls and consider how you already have friluftsliv in your own life and expand upon that. Be easy on yourself and start small, even a few minutes a day is enough to get started.

Citations:
[1] Visit Norway
[2] BBC
[3] National Geographic
[4] Living a Nordic Life

4. Nature’s Mood Booster

When in need of a mood lift, Skandi folks turn to nature. Whether it’s a forest walk, a mountain hike, or a leisurely park stroll, the natural world has a calming and liberating effect.

5. Sweets for Saturdays

Lørdagkos is a lovely Norwegian tradition. It celebrates the joy of indulging in sweets and candy on Saturdays, which is seen as a special day of the week. It’s a time to relax and enjoy life’s simple pleasures with loved ones. Even shops reduce candy pick n mix prices on Saturdays due to the tradition’s popularity.

So why not embrace this Nordic habit and create your own Lørdagkos? Spend some quality time with your family and friends, indulge in your favourite sweets and candy, and make some unforgettable memories. After all, life is all about cherishing these little moments of happiness that bring us closer to each other.

I hope this inspires you to create your own Lørdagkos! Let me know if you have any other questions.

6. Midweek Treat

Skandi folk have a tradition of celebrating “Lille Lørdag,” which is a midweek indulgence that adds a sense of comfort and cosiness to their week. 

The tradition is a way to break up the workweek and infuse a little bit of celebration and relief into the mundanity of yet another day at home. 

7. Rise and Shine

In Skandi countries, the workday often starts early, setting a positive tone for the day. Prioritising early mornings can improve your balance between work and personal life.

8. Simplicity in Meals

“Skandi lunches, often referred to as ‘matpakke,’ embody a beautiful simplicity that goes beyond just sustenance. In the midst of our busy lives, these unassuming meals provide a pause, allowing us to recalibrate and find harmony in our daily routines.

While ‘matpakke’ may seem modest, it carries a profound impact. These carefully prepared lunches, packed with a selection of wholesome ingredients, are a testament to the Scandinavian approach to life. They remind us that nourishing our bodies isn’t solely about the food we consume, but also about the intention behind it.

With ‘matpakke,’ you are not just eating; you are practising mindfulness. This practice instils a sense of balance in your day. It encourages you to slow down, savour each bite, and appreciate the nourishment it brings. It’s a moment of self-care amidst the hustle and bustle.

In a world that often glorifies extravagant meals and dining experiences, ‘matpakke’ stands as a gentle reminder that simplicity can be a source of strength. It allows you to shift your focus from the complexities of your day to the essence of what truly matters: taking care of yourself and finding harmony in the ordinary moments of life.”

9. Work-Life Harmony

Within the essence of Skandi culture, an unwavering commitment to work-life balance emerges as a guiding principle. Here, the rhythm of life is not dictated solely by professional pursuits but is beautifully harmonized with the symphony of personal and family life.

In Skandi countries, it’s not merely a concept but a way of life deeply rooted in their values. The importance of family and personal well-being is a cornerstone, and this emphasis transcends lip service to become an integral part of their daily existence.

In this nurturing environment, individuals are encouraged to not only excel in their careers but also to nurture their personal lives. This prioritisation creates a profound sense of fulfilment and balance. It allows them to thrive in their professional roles while still cherishing the moments that matter most outside of work.

The result is a society that flourishes not only economically but also in the richness of its relationships and the vitality of its communities. Skandi countries have shown the world that true success is not measured solely by financial achievements but also by the depth of contentment and well-rounded living.

So, when we speak of Skandi countries, it’s not just about work-life balance; it’s about a commitment to living a life that is truly fulfilling, where family and personal aspirations are celebrated as essential ingredients in the recipe of a well-lived life.

10. Celebrate Every Season

Skandi people embrace each season with enthusiasm, finding joy in winter sports, spring’s renewal, and summer’s warmth. Adapting to seasonal changes adds balance and excitement to life.

Incorporating these Skandi living habits into your daily life can lead to a more balanced, hygge-filled, and joyful existence. Whether you adopt them all or choose the ones that resonate with you, the Skandi way can guide you toward a life of greater balance and contentment. So, embrace Skandi living and experience the beauty of hygge and balance in your own journey.