Why Friluftsliv Is Good for Us

A Natural Part of Nordic Life

Friluftsliv, the Nordic concept of outdoor living, means spending more time in nature. When I return "home" to Scandinavia, it's one of the first things that strikes me—how much more time people spend outside. Instead of simply meeting for a meal, you take a walk first. You have coffee on a bench outdoors. Sometimes you meet specifically for outdoor activities, but more often, being outside is simply woven into daily life as people get around by foot and bike, naturally incorporating exercise into their routines. The result? A few weeks back in Scandinavia usually means I lose a few pounds and my fitness levels improve.

The Science Behind Friluftsliv

But what is it about Friluftsliv that has transformed it from just a word into a way of living—one that's implemented through government programs and permeates all areas of public life in the Nordic countries? To find out, I turned to the Swedish Public Health Agency.

According to the Agency, nature itself has positive effects on our health. Spending time outdoors can improve cognition, increase concentration, aid in recovery, and help us manage stress. Being in nature often improves our mood and decreases our risk of depression.

Friluftsliv typically involves some form of physical activity, which we all need to stay healthy. I used to get stuck thinking I needed to take a grand hike or go for a long bike ride—activities that required planning and time I simply didn't have. Living in a city, without deep forests readily available, I started questioning the point of it all. The result? I stopped going outside as much as I used to.

Making Friluftsliv Achievable

But these limiting beliefs weren't true. According to experts, we should aim for about 120 minutes outside per week—just two hours. This modest amount of time has shown real health benefits, and it can be split between one long weekend hike or several shorter activities throughout the week. In the end, it's better to head outside wherever you are than not at all. Explore your neighborhoods, local parks, and city streets. There's always something new to discover.

There is a reason I picked a picture to accompany this post that shows stillness in nature. While Friluftsliv often brings to mind physical activities, it doesn't have to be strenuous. The term roughly translates to "outdoor living," so ultimately it simply means going outside—finding quiet moments in nature that can help you unwind and de-stress.

At Day’s End

Taking those first steps to incorporate more outdoor time into your life doesn't require a dramatic lifestyle change. Start with short walks, lunch breaks in the park, or morning coffee on your balcony. The Nordic philosophy of Friluftsliv reminds us that nature isn't just a destination for special occasions—it's a vital part of everyday well-being that's available to all of us, no matter where we live. So tomorrow, why not take that first step outside?

Reference:

Swedish Health Agency (2024). Friluftsliv för bättre folkhälsa. Available at https://www.folkhalsomyndigheten.se/livsvillkor-levnadsvanor/friluftsliv/