In Finland, spending time in nature isn’t just a pastime—it’s a way of life. Whether it’s a casual stroll through a nearby forest or a brisk hike up a hill, the connection to the natural world is deeply ingrained in Finnish culture. As the happiest country in the world, it’s no surprise that one of the key ingredients to Finnish happiness is time spent in the great outdoors.
No matter the season, Finns find solace, joy, and balance by embracing the natural world. Here’s how you can experience the same benefits and improve your mental well-being, no matter where you are.
Nature: Finland’s Ultimate Escape
Finns have an innate understanding of the importance of nature for mental clarity and emotional balance. With 75% of the country covered in forests and over 188,000 lakes, Finland is a haven for those seeking peace and tranquility. But this connection to nature goes beyond simply appreciating the view—Finns actively engage with the outdoors to recharge their minds and bodies.
Nature isn’t seen as something separate from daily life in Finland. Whether it’s a quick morning jog along a lakeside path, a lunch break picnic in a city park, or a weekend retreat to a summer cottage (mökki), the outdoors is an essential part of everyday routine.
The Four Seasons: A Year-Round Connection to Nature
One of the most unique aspects of life in Finland is the way people engage with nature throughout the year, adapting to each season’s beauty and challenges. Here’s how Finns embrace nature in all its forms:
Spring: Nature Awakens
As the snow melts and days grow longer, spring in Finland brings a palpable sense of renewal. After a long winter, Finns eagerly head outdoors to witness nature’s rebirth. Birdwatching is a popular activity, as migratory species return, filling the air with song. Wildflowers start to bloom, and people take to the forests to forage for the first greens of the year, like wild herbs and nettles.
For Finns, spring is the perfect time to start the friluftsliv (open-air life) season in earnest. A simple walk in the woods, breathing in the crisp, fresh air, can do wonders for the soul after months of cold and darkness.
Summer: Long Days and Midnight Sun
Summer in Finland is magical. The sun barely sets, casting a golden glow across the landscape well into the night. This is when Finns fully immerse themselves in nature, often retreating to their summer cottages near lakes. There, they spend long days swimming, fishing, and relaxing in the sauna before taking a dip in the cool waters.
Hiking in the national parks, cycling through endless meadows, or simply sitting by a campfire with friends are ways to disconnect from daily stresses. The long, light-filled days of summer help recharge the body and mind, and Finns know how to take full advantage of every moment.
Autumn: Harvest and Reflection
As the summer fades, the Finnish landscape transforms into a vibrant tapestry of reds, yellows, and oranges. Autumn is a time for reflection and preparation. Finns use this time to go mushroom and berry picking, stocking up on nature’s bounty before winter arrives.
There’s a certain calmness in the air as the leaves fall, and Finns take long walks in the forest, breathing in the earthy scent of damp leaves. Even a short walk can be meditative, helping to clear the mind and refocus on what’s important.
Winter: Embracing the Cold
Finnish winters are long and dark, but that doesn’t stop Finns from enjoying the outdoors. In fact, winter is a season to be embraced. Cross-country skiing, ice fishing, and skating on frozen lakes are just a few popular activities. And of course, there’s the sauna—a winter refuge that helps ease the cold from your bones and relax your mind.
Finns also take advantage of the kaamos, or polar night, where the darkness creates a quiet and introspective atmosphere. Even a short walk in the snowy woods, under the glow of streetlights or the Northern Lights, can bring a sense of peace and clarity.
Why Spending Time in Nature is Good for You
So, what makes spending time in nature so beneficial for your well-being? Scientific research shows that being outdoors can reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and improve mood. In Finland, where people have easy access to vast natural areas, nature serves as a refuge from the pressures of modern life.
Being in nature helps you feel more grounded and present. It allows you to disconnect from technology, slow down, and appreciate the simple things—like the sound of the wind in the trees or the sight of a lake shimmering in the sunlight. The physical activity that comes with spending time outdoors, whether it’s hiking, skiing, or just walking, also releases endorphins, which elevate mood and create a sense of well-being.
Bringing the Finnish Connection to Nature into Your Life
Even if you don’t live in Finland, there are plenty of ways to incorporate the Finnish approach to nature into your routine:
- Make Time for Daily Walks: Whether you live in a city or countryside, find a nearby park or green space where you can take a walk and clear your mind. Even a short walk during your lunch break can help you feel more centered.
- Embrace Seasonal Activities: Take inspiration from the Finnish way of embracing each season. Whether it’s hiking in the summer, foraging in the fall, or ice skating in the winter, find outdoor activities that align with the time of year.
- Unplug and Be Present: Use your time in nature as a chance to disconnect from technology. Focus on your surroundings—listen to the sounds of nature, breathe deeply, and let go of any distractions.
- Find Your Sanctuary: If possible, create a small space in your home where you can retreat and reconnect with nature, even if it’s just through houseplants or a view of the outdoors.
Conclusion: Discover Peace in the Outdoors, Finnish-Style
In Finland, nature is more than just a backdrop—it’s a source of joy, peace, and balance. The Finnish approach to spending time outdoors is something we can all learn from. By embracing the seasons, reconnecting with the natural world, and making time to step outside, you too can experience the benefits of nature for your mental and emotional well-being.
No matter where you live, there’s always a way to bring a little Finnish calm into your life. So, take a cue from the happiest country in the world—head outside, breathe in the fresh air, and let nature work its magic.