As the winter season hits, it can often feel as though we don’t see much daylight; the nights feel long and the days dull and grey.
This year though, we are taking tips from our Scandinavian friends – with Norway, Sweden and Denmark all making the list for the happiest countries in the world – and making the most of winter, with Norwegian wellness concept friluftsliv.
Roughly translated to mean 'open air living', friluftsliv encourages us to get outside and make the most of nature, no matter the weather. Why? Because it’s a simple, stress-busting mood-booster.
Frilustiv applies all year round, no matter the weather. So next time you think twice about a chilly lunch time walk or rainy dog walk, think like the Norwegians and get outside!
We know that spending time walking in nature is not just great for our physical health but our mental health too, often attributed to the grounding feeling of spending time in the great outdoors, helping us to disconnect from our daily stresses and get away from spending time at a screen.
The ethos of friluftsliv is all about a positive winter mindset, with well-known Norweigian quote of there being “No such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing!”.
Frilustiv also applies all year round, no matter the weather. So next time you think twice about a chilly lunch time walk or rainy dog walk, think like the Norwegians and get outside!
The Norwegian ethos of Koselig is all about the feeling of contentment, cosiness and happiness in nature...
In keeping with friluftsliv, also take inspiration this winter from the Norweigian ethos koselig.
Similar to Denmark’s hygge, koselig is all about the cosy vibes. Think warm blankets, the soft glow of candlelight and your favourite hot drink to enjoy.
Koselig is also about the feeling of contentment, cosiness and happiness, but unlike hygge, its focus is on being with friends and family, coupled with connecting to nature and the outdoors.
Set up a small nook in your garden, atop your decked area to entertain friends. Gently light the space with festoon lights to produce a beautiful ambiance
Why not set up a small nook in your garden, atop your decked area. Gently light the space with festoon lights in a warm white to create a beautiful, calming glow.
The soft glow of candles – battery powered or otherwise – also produces a beautiful ambiance.
Faux furs do a great job at creating additional texture and warmth in your garden, in the form of blankets, throws and cushions
Faux furs do a great job at creating additional texture and warmth in your garden, in the form of blankets, throws and cushions — and not forgetting the hot water bottles for when it gets really chilly. A rug used outside on your decking is also a nice way to add to your cosy set up.
Finally, enjoy some hot food and drink. We have some great ideas for winter warmers in this post.
Click here to read some of our ideas to make the most of your outdoor space come wintertime.
Will you be living life outside this winter?
