This simple philosophy provides a foolproof blueprint to staying present, along with boosting your physical and emotional wellbeing. Here's how to practice it on the daily
Now that summer is in full swing and after two years of experiencing the stifling effects of cabin fever induced by intermittent periods in lockdown, most of us are now looking to embrace the great outdoors more so than ever before. The collective restlessness and need for escapism is likely rooted in a multitude of factors. Perhaps it was the confinement of involuntarily working from your apartment's four small walls, or the all-encompassing sense of peace provided by a sunset stroll after a stressful day. Whatever the reasoning, many of us are looking to ditch the dingy desk and embrace the outdoors more and more, a philosophy otherwise known as ‘friluftsliv’.
‘Friluftsliv’ (pronounced free-loofts-liv), translates as ‘open air living’ and conveys an ever-lasting passion for being in nature. Introduced in the 1850s by Norwegian playwright, Henrik Ibsen, it describes basking in the beauty of remote landscapes, calming waters and lush forests as essential for spiritual and physical wellbeing. And as Scandinavian countries are consistently top of the United Nations' World Happiness Report, it’s no wonder other countries want to follow suit and are looking to embrace friluftsliv as part of their repertoire of mantras to live by.
Lofoten, Norway. Photo: Getty Images
In a world engulfed by the constant barrage of urgent Slack pings and G-mail notifications, a fleeting moment of tranquillity in nature offers a much-welcomed break. "There is an abundance of evidence showing outdoor living and proximity to green spaces yield benefits for mental and physical health," says Daryl O‘Connor, Professor of Psychology at the University of Leeds, in the UK. "It's likely these relaxing environments promote positive health behaviours, improve moods and reduce the release of the stress hormone cortisol. As a result, nature-based interventions to improve mental health are becoming more commonplace."
A recent study found gardening and nature-based therapy interventions are most effective. So, next time you consider skipping your daily walk, remind yourself of ‘friluftsliv’s’ benefits.
But how do you adopt this traditional life philosophy into your everyday? Particularly when the digitised, frantic world we live in leaves us frantic and pulled in every direction. Here are three easy and quick tips for friluftsliv-ying your life.
Podcasts to ponder
If you feel the need for some companionship while getting out into the fresh air, clearing your mind (even for 20 minutes) with an immersive podcast can be a fantastic non-intrusive way to access a little friluftsliv feeling.
Get inspired by listening to the fascinating fashion podcast ‘Ganni Talks Culture Club’, where host Marjon Carlos speaks to exciting creatives on what emerging topics, artists, books and trends are making them tick. Craving a more authentic, relatable conversation? Look no further than Ganni's ‘How Are You?’ podcast series where Ditte and Nicolaj call fashion friends around the world to check in on their wellbeing, headspace and have a heart-to-heart.
Related: The evolution of the #GanniGirl
And if that whets your podcast appetite, there are lots more great listens on everything from Scandinavian fashion and Scandi interior design to environmentalism just a few clicks away.
Photo: Getty Images
Cold water therapy
The resurgence of open water swimming is another perfect way to incorporate friluftsliv. Seen in some circles as a form of therapy, shared exhilaration from open water swimming can build trust and social bonds – so be sure to bring your friends to experience the thrill with you. The activity allows you to boost your metabolism, dopamine levels and mindfulness whilst admiring the unique rock formations of outstanding spots such as Søndervig beach in Denmark or Norway's Hauklandstranda beach, the latter famous for its turquoise waters and white sands that emulate a Mediterranean coast.
And it's a mode of friluftsliv that can be pursued all year round, with a host of stunning swimming spots and saunas scattered here in Scandinavia suitable for all seasons.
Photo: Getty Images
Starry-eyed locations
There are few better ways to simultaneously feel that connected to nature and clear your mind of your daily worries than by tilting your head back and looking up to the night sky. And the Nordics just happens to be a region blessed with some ideal locations for doing just that.
Gaze up into starry night skies and see the infamous Northern Lights at the mesmerising Abisko Sky Station in Swedish Lapland, or visit the astonishing Møns Klint beach, two hours outside of Copenhagen, which has breathtaking landscapes and, according to the International Dark-Sky Association, is one of the best stargazing locations in the world. In either spot, you'll feel that restorative passion for nature in no time.
Photo: Getty Images