Friluftsliv: Open Air Living
Friluftsliv is a Nordic practice deeply rooted in Scandinavian culture. It means “open air living” and was originated by Henrik Ibsen in Norway in 1850. The term Friluftsliv describes Scandinavia’s passion for nature, as the value of spending time in remote locations for spiritual and physical wellbeing. Norway, Sweden, and Denmark practice this all year long, no matter the temperature or weather. Friluftsliv is embedded in the Nordic workplace and culture. People get out and walk or jog on lunch breaks daily. It is a big part of their lives to strengthen their physical and mental fitness. Scandinavian countries have smaller populations and lots of land. Many companies offer incentives to their staff to spend time outside during working hours. Sweden promotes outdoor activities and believes strongly in work life balance. Friluftsliv is a daily incorporated outdoor time at work despite the weather. This allows employees to fulfill their passions for nature. Friluftsliv is meant to be a mind clearing activity in a remote area to “shut off” and recoup energy levels. Today, due to metropolitan and developing cities, there are different alternatives to experience Friluftsliv, such as, meditation, silent retreats, and psychedelics. We all have time to get outdoors, we just have to be mindful of how we design our lives.
The Nordic art of Friluftsliv, “open air living,” is a lifestyle and way to reconnect with nature. It is simply a way of life. Living a “free air life” is our basic human need to be outside and connect with nature. Genuine Friluftsliv is being in nature not for an activity, but just to be there. IT revolves around celebrating time outdoors. A positive mindset and proper clothes for any weather condition is key to a successful outdoor adventure. Friluftsliv can range from long strolls with friends and walking the dog on a chilly morning to hard-core exploring deep in a forest. It allows us to relax, gain mental clarity, and take a break from technology. Scandinavian countries consistently rank as the happiest countries on earth. Norway’s Outdoor Recreation Act allows free access to walk or camp almost anywhere you like, as long as you respect both locals and wildlife. The open-air and freedom to roam philosophy encourages exploration, adventure, and a lifelong respect for the environment.
Friluftsliv is more than a Nordic practice. It is a mindset and lifestyle that can be applied to everyday life. The lifestyle embraces any type of weather during any season. It makes no excuse. Rain or shine, cold or hot, below sea level or up at 14,000 feet, getting outside and positivity are at the forefront of Friluftsliv. People who practice it, are opportunists and celebrate life outdoors daily. Friluftsliv is a mindset that can transform the way we experience our own internal world and the world all around us. Remember, your thoughts become your actions, your actions become your habits, your habits become your practice, and your practice becomes your life. Get outside!
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