Scandinavian culture has been very popular lately, because that part of the world has some of the happiest people.
I have never visited that part of the world (though I would love to!) but I did a lot of research.
As I was researching the different words and concepts, I actually learned a lot.
The Scandinavian countries are Norway, Sweden and Denmark.
While the countries are grouped together in this way, it’s worth noting that they all have distinctly different languages.
It is true that they share similar elements of culture (at least from an American perspective) but they are each their own unique country.
So what makes Scandinavians so happy? How do you live like one? I would like to explore that through a few words that don’t have a direct translation to English.
Quick Access
Koselig
pronounced koosh-lee – Norwegian (Norway)
Best translated as a cozy and warm atmosphere of togetherness in a pleasant setting.
Koselig happens when you stay comfortable and stay home with the presence of your loved ones.
It involves comfy blankets, hot beverages, warming soups and lit candles.
It’s most commonly associated with winter, Norwegians keep a positive attitude even during these darker months.
It’s difficult for me to imagine as someone who has experiencing snow on their bucket list!
But if you live somewhere cold, Pull on your warm scarf, heavy sweater, thick socks and snug boots before heading outside.
That’s right, outside into the cold.
Because Koselig is also associated with nature.
If you live somewhere that it snows this could mean ice skating, sledding or skiing.
If you live in a warmer climate like me it might mean bonfires or hikes.
Or it could be lighting your fireplace, putting on some music and having a few drinks with friends.. it’s more about the feeling than anything else.
Lagom
pronounced la-gum – Swedish (Sweden)
The closest translation would be something in just the right amount, or done in comfortable moderation.
In a word: balance. I can’t help but think of Goldilocks from Goldilocks and the three bears – Lagom is juuust right.
Balance is important in so many aspects of our lives.
Balance between..
Hustle and Rest
Work and Play
Career and Family
Calm and Excitement
Spending and Saving
Indulging and Abstaining
Giving and Taking
Staying inside and Going outside
The list goes on. Balance is a a key element to all of our lives.
To live a balanced life is to live a life of Lagom.
It’s also about living a sustainable life where we take just what we need and try to waste nothing.
Fika
pronounced fee-ka – Swedish (Sweden)
The rough translation for this word is a break in the day for coffee and something sweet.
Not just a break though, a break specifically to set aside a moment for quality time.
And for something sweet. Because who doesn’t love sweet?
It’s important to treat yo self sometimes!
The real point is that it’s a moment purposefully taken each day to slow down and appreciate the good things in life.
Take some time to enjoy your treat, enjoy your company (if it’s someone else OR yourself) and be the present moment.
You might just find some peace.
Hygge
pronounced hoo-ga – Danish (Denmark)
If you’ve heard any of these words before, it’s probably this one.
Hygge has been everywhere these past few years.
Despite the fact that I know how to properly pronounce it, I can’t help pronouncing it in my mind the way that it’s spelled. (Am I alone in that?)
Hygge is best translated as a mood of comfy coziness with feelings of contentment.
These days, it’s associated mostly with the colder seasons – warm clothes, long books, hot drinks, twinkle lights, togetherness with loved ones.. very autumn and winter vibes.
The key elements of Lagom, Fika, Koselig and Hygge aren’t just for the colder months though, not at all!
Truly, there are a few key elements to Scandinavian lifestyle that you can easily bring into any season.
Atmosphere
I discovered while reading the Little book of Hygge that the Danish word for spoilsport literally translates to the one who puts out the candles – no joke.
Candles play a large role in setting up the atmosphere.
You might prefer natural and unscented candles but you can give me Bed Bath & Body Works scented candles any day.
I love sweet smells, like florals, cinnamon or vanilla, maybe apple pie..
Bonus points if you have a fireplace.
I don’t have one, but I burn candles all year long. If that’s not your style, there are essential oil diffusers, incense or wax melts.
If all else fails, use twinkle lights! Also known as fairy lights or string lights.
Usually they’re battery powered and only a few dollars, but you can even find fancier ones online.
A quick note on Diffusers
Using a diffuser can be perfect for creating your own custom scents but PLEASE do some research before you purchase any essential oils if you have pets.
There are several popular essential oils that are toxic to both dogs and cats.
Also, of course, both cats and dogs have a much more sensitive sense of smell than either you or I do.
So your pet (or furbaby) maybe be more keen on certain scents and not like others.
Here are some essential oils that you definitely should steer clear from:
– citrus (lemon, orange, lime)
– pine
– tea tree
– ylang ylang
Again, I encourage you to do your own research and experiment with introducing essentials oils gradually if you have pets to keep them safe!
Pleasure
The edible kind. It’s cake, it’s chocolate, it’s coffee, it’s tea it’s pie.. it’s your comfort food (even if it’s not sweet).
Think hot soups and stews. A nice steaming broth that you simmer in your slow cooker all day filling the house with mouthwatering aroma.. Meals that really warm and comfort you.
Cooking your own meals or baking your own sweets is even better!
Comfort
It’s really all about keeping it casual – my general approach to life.
I mean, I like to look stylish – but I’d rather be comfortable.
Both is best of course.
It does get very cold in all of the countries of Scandinavia, but since it’s so rare to have any cold weather in Florida, I have a special love for warm weather clothes!
Cozy sweaters, scarves, hats, thick socks and tall boots!
Of course, you’re not going to throw on your coat in the middle of summer.
It’s all about comfort so in summer that might look like a sun dress and flip-flops here in Florida.
Presence & Togetherness
Put down your phone. Be where you are, with who you’re with!
Spending time with others important.
But not just spending time with anyone, spending quality time with the one or ones you care about.
While it’s great to be strong, independent and free, research shows that people who are happier with their social relationships tend to be happier overall.
It’s not just the coziness of snuggling up on the sofa with someone else either.
It’s also about a chemical in your brain called oxytocin.
This chemical is released when you’re in any kind of intimate situation, such as cuddling or holding hands – even with your pets!
Also, leaving politics out of it is usually a good idea for the whole vibe – just call a truce for the time being.
Keep the peace and enjoy each other.
Nature
Getting out into nature is also a very important aspect of Scandinavian lifestyles.
There’s a common saying in the Scandinavian countries that there is no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothes.
It’s all about getting into the outdoors, even during the dark winters.
Even some employers encourage their staff to spend time outdoors during their work hours!
The Norwegian word Friluftsliv literally translates to free air life.
There is actually a law that was established in 1957 called the Outdoor Recreations Act to solidify inhabitants their right to roam.
There are rules requiring that you respect nature and privacy of course – but they take their time in nature very seriously.
Europe’s first national park was created in Sweden in 1909 – actually they created NINE national parks. Today there are 30 national parks in Sweden.
Take this advice to heart and take a walk outside. Soak up the sunshine and fresh air, or smell the rain and snow.
In our technologically advance world it can be easy to avoid going outside at all, or for minimum amounts of time.
But recent studies show a correlation between time spent in nature and lower stress.
Is it any wonder Scandinavians are so generally happy?
Gratitude
This may be as good as it gets, so stop waiting to be happy and be happy now.
Appreciate all that you already have. You may look back and wonder what you were waiting for.
Too often we put off happiness. We think we’ll attain happiness once we –
lose the weight
find the perfect partner
graduate
get the job
start that business
achieve the goal
But the truth is that if you can’t find happiness with yourself as you are now, you probably won’t find happiness after your achievement either.
Take the time to count your blessings and remember that life is a journey and not a destination.
In conclusion
Obviously not every single person living in these countries is happy all of the time. No one is.
But the people living in Scandinavian countries tend to be happier than people living in other countries.
I believe that is because they know how to appreciate the little things in life.
I think we could all stand to take a page out of their books.
Which of the key elements do you plan on incorporating more of into your life?
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