Scandinavia is a region comprised of Denmark, Norway and Sweden that embraces simplicity, nature and functionality in terms of both culture and aesthetic.
Anthropologists sometimes refer to Scandinavia as an ethnic identity; however, this notion has been disproven by modern genetic studies. Yet many individuals with small amounts of Scandinavian DNA will discover strong ties to this region.
Hygge
Pronounced “huu-guh,” Hygge is the Danish concept of comfort and conviviality that has gained worldwide renown. While associated with cold winter nights in Denmark, its practice has also been linked with its top rankings in global happiness reports and making people more resilient against daily life stressors.
Hygge is similar to Swedish lagom in that both words focus on balance; however, Danish hygge goes further by emphasizing simple pleasures and feelings of contentment over balance. Furthermore, Danish hygge emphasizes an inviting, convivial environment which is ideal for family get-togethers.
Hygge is often associated with candlelight, hot cocoa and cozy sweaters – but the concept goes much deeper than this. Hygge means feeling completely relaxed and centered while unwinding from life’s stresses – either alone or together with loved ones. Hygge can provide much-needed respite during a long winter day!
Hygge has become so wildly popular that designers and merchandisers have taken notice, producing products related to it such as soft blankets, relaxing candles, coffee tables and t-shirts (worn by actress Sofie Grabol in The Killing) bearing its image. Hygge even left its mark in Danish language – new words have been coined such as hyggelig (meaning cozyness) and hyggehouse (coziness).
Start practicing hygge by creating an inviting atmosphere in your home, by turning off phones, inviting friends over and putting away phones during meal times. Hygge involves taking time out for simple pleasures like sipping a cup of coffee while conversing with them or holding hands as you stroll along together on an outing. Furthermore, making hygge part of daily life so it becomes part of you will help cement it’s spirit within.
Lagom
Lagom is one of Sweden’s greatest cultural treasures and one of the world’s most unique words, rising to the top of international lists of unique words. Pronounced “lah-gom,” its definition emphasizes moderation in all areas of life – work, play, socialising and sleep all need to be balanced appropriately for optimal functioning. Apply it to student life; lagom may just become your go-to word when navigating Sweden!
Lagom is an appealing concept for students, particularly when it comes to socializing. Striking a balance between studying and socialising will allow you to stay focused, recharge your batteries, and enjoy Sweden! Lagom means finding an equilibrium between solitude and going out with friends; and eating sensibly without overindulgence of food or alcohol.
Lagom is also an effective strategy for striking the right work-life balance; it means not taking on more than you can manage and prioritising health over anything else. When applied to student life, lagom involves keeping an eye on those things which truly matter and focusing on those.
This Scandinavian concept offers an appealing counterpoint to the belief that more is better and excess equals happiness. This concept has its origins in Hindu, Buddhist, and Greek traditions and forms the cornerstone of many religions – it could even be seen as the Swedish version of Goldilocks!
Hygge and lagom, two popular Scandinavian concepts that have gained popularity across Canada, have recently become trendy lifestyle trends. While many may wonder whether these lifestyles conflict, in reality they complement each other perfectly: Hygge emphasizes coziness while lagom emphasizes finding balance to live an optimal life.
Lagom is such a widely used concept that there are books instructing English speakers on how to incorporate its principles in daily lives, with Instagram hashtags featuring this word for guidance. Design and fashion has taken notice, too, with lagom-themed mugs and t-shirts even available! In addition, numerous articles exist detailing its practice along with twice annual magazines dedicated exclusively to lagom living.
Friluftsliv
Friluftsliv (pronounced free air life) is a Norwegian term that translates as “free air life.” This philosophy embraces nature’s simplicity while encouraging more outdoor time for individuals of all ages. Friluftsliv has been part of Scandinavian culture for centuries as an adaptation to survive its rugged terrain, so outdoor activities became essential survival tools; now, however, its presence can be enjoyed by people of all ages alike.
Friluftsliv (pronounced ‘friluft-liv”) in Norway refers to spending significant amounts of time outdoors. This could involve anything from taking an easy Sunday hike with family and friends, to skiing from cabin to cabin for several days with others, hunting grouse or fishing for dinner; whatever it may be, spending at least some of each day outside is key to happiness!
Spending time outdoors has many health and emotional benefits; from hiking and skiing, to simply lounging in the sunshine. Spending time outside can strengthen muscles, soothe minds, reduce stress levels, provide unique perspectives on life – hiking provides more than physical fitness: its journey through nature allows one to hear birdsong and discover hidden waterfalls or panoramic viewpoints along the way.
Friluftsliv can also help foster emotional connections among family and friends while creating a sense of community – something particularly valuable for older adults. Indeed, research indicates that families that practice friluftsliv tend to stay healthier and happier as adults age. Indeed, Sami people refer to these activities with words such as olggostallan and meahcastallan when discussing their connection to nature – this contrasts to more utilitarian descriptions found among Norwegian rural inhabitants until recently.
Sustainable living
Sustainability has long been on everyone’s minds, so it comes as no surprise that Scandinavia is leading the charge when it comes to eco-conscious practices. Inspired by their culture and geography, Scandinavians take great care to protect the environment through measures like energy efficiency, renewable energy production, water management strategies and waste reduction initiatives implemented through government programs and policies.
Lagom, or “just the right amount,” is an integral component of Scandinavian life and culture. Used to refer to height (lagom lang), temperature or size – lagom encourages contentment with what one has and sustains equilibrium across life’s various aspects. Lagom has grown increasingly popular across Western culture – even IKEA launched an initiative called “Live Lagom!” to raise awareness.
Scandi design places great importance on sustainable living, which is evident through the incorporation of biophilic elements and materials in building structures and furnishings. Natural lighting, wood elements and earthy tones are used to add natural elements into interior spaces for enhanced wellbeing and foster a connection to nature. Furthermore, many buildings feature green roofs or other eco-friendly features.
Scandinavians are widely respected for their eco-friendly design aesthetic as well as their frugal lifestyle and financial sustainability. They prefer not spending more than they can afford and avoid debt at all costs; also preferring quality items over overpriced ones that won’t last as long.
Nordic countries are leaders in renewable energy production and recycling programs, featuring some of the world’s most successful recycling programs. Sweden leads in waste-to-energy processes which reduce global emissions, lower energy consumption and promote circular economies.
Future trends suggest that sustainable and regenerative practices will become even more integral to Scandinavian design, including increased reuse of materials and incorporation of long lifespans with implied repairability into product design to reduce “use-and-throw” behavior.