The Finnish Way

1. Embrace the Nordic Lifestyle for Holistic Well-being

Regardless of where we live or what we do, I think we all face struggles and challenges in our daily lives that could greatly benefit from some extra fortitude.

Simple and Sensible. The Nordic lifestyle emphasizes practicality, simplicity, and a deep connection to nature. It's about incorporating healthy habits into daily routines rather than relying on extreme or complicated solutions. This includes:

• Prioritizing work-life balance with shorter workdays and proper lunch breaks
• Cycling or walking for transportation
• Eating a diet based on local, seasonal foods

Accessibility and Equality. The Nordic model promotes accessibility to well-being resources for everyone, regardless of income or social status. This is reflected in the availability of public parks, bike paths, and subsidized healthcare.

A Gradual Transformation. The author's experience highlights how adopting these elements can lead to a gradual but profound transformation in overall well-being. It's about making small, sustainable changes that accumulate over time, fostering a sense of balance and contentment.

2. Sisu: Cultivating Inner Strength and Resilience

Sisu is a way of life to actively transform the challenges that come our way into opportunities.

Beyond Grit. Sisu is a Finnish concept that goes beyond perseverance or grit. It's about having the mental toughness to endure significant stress and take action against seemingly impossible odds. It's a deep-seated determination to not give up, even when faced with adversity.

Mind-Body Connection. Sisu is not just a psychological mindset but also a somatic embodiment of mental toughness. It's about recognizing the connection between physical well-being and mental strength. Taking care of your body can enhance your ability to cope with challenges.

Cultivating Sisu. While sisu may be culturally influenced, it's a quality that anyone can develop. It involves cultivating a growth mindset, believing that your abilities are not fixed, and actively seeking out challenges that allow you to see what you're capable of.

3. The Cold Water Cure: Invigorating Body and Mind

A dip of about thirty seconds to one minute in water that’s on average about 4 degrees Celsius during the winter months causes what’s known as a ‘hormone storm,’ as many of the so-called happy hormones are pushed into action.

Hormonal Boost. Winter swimming, or ice swimming, involves taking short dips in icy cold water. This practice triggers a "hormone storm," releasing endorphins, serotonin, dopamine, and oxytocin, which can improve mood and reduce stress.

Physical Benefits. Beyond the mental boost, winter swimming enhances blood circulation, burns calories, and boosts the immune system. It can also provide pain relief and reduce fatigue.

A Natural Remedy. The author's personal experience demonstrates how winter swimming can be a natural remedy for depression and anxiety. It provides a sense of invigoration and resilience, helping to manage stress and improve overall well-being.

4. Sauna: A Sanctuary for Cleansing and Connection

All men are created equal; but nowhere more than in a sauna.

More Than Just Heat. The Finnish sauna is more than just a steam bath; it's a cultural institution with a long history. It's a place for cleansing both mind and body, relieving tension, and promoting relaxation.

Equality and Connection. The sauna is a great equalizer, where people from all walks of life can come together and connect in a non-hierarchical setting. It's a place for social bonding and open conversation.

Health Benefits. In addition to relaxation, the sauna offers numerous health benefits, including improved circulation, lower blood pressure, and increased resistance to illness. It's a sanctuary for both physical and mental well-being.

5. Nature Therapy: Reconnecting with the Natural World

When you stand in the forest and look up at the trees, your own problems seem small.

Antidote to Modern Life. Nature therapy, or "green care," refers to the power of nature to reduce stress, boost well-being, and offer a digital detox. Spending time in natural environments can have a profound impact on mental and physical health.

Measurable Benefits. Research has shown that even a short walk in the woods can lower stress hormones, blood pressure, and muscle tension. It can also improve mood and cognitive function.

Incorporating Nature. The key is to incorporate daily doses of nature into your life, whether it's a walk in a park, a bike ride through a forest, or simply spending time in a green space. Reconnecting with the natural world can provide a sense of calm and perspective.

6. The Nordic Diet: Simple, Sensible, and Sustainable Eating

Relaxed eating means increasing the good rather than focusing on decreasing the bad.

Balanced and Local. The Nordic diet emphasizes simple, affordable food that is locally sourced and seasonally available. It's rich in berries, vegetables, whole grains, and oily fish, while limiting red meat and processed foods.

Health Benefits. Following the Nordic diet can reduce the risk of depression, improve cognitive function, and promote weight loss. It's a sustainable approach to eating that focuses on balance and moderation.

A Commonsense Approach. The Nordic diet is not about extreme restrictions or complicated rules. It's about making sensible choices and enjoying food in a relaxed and mindful way. It's a sustainable approach to eating that promotes long-term health and well-being.

7. Nurturing Sisu in Childhood: Building a Foundation for Life

Unstructured outdoor play, rain or shine. Weather should not be an excuse.

Early Childhood Education. The Finnish education system emphasizes play, trust, and health in early childhood. Children are encouraged to spend time outdoors, develop social skills, and learn through exploration.

Equality and Support. The Finnish system provides equal opportunities for all children, regardless of their background. It offers support and resources to those who need it, ensuring that every child has the chance to succeed.

Building Resilience. By fostering independence, autonomy, and a love of learning, the Finnish education system helps children develop the resilience and fortitude they need to navigate life's challenges. It's about building a foundation for a happy and fulfilling life.

8. Cycling: Pedaling Towards Happiness and Health

Icy cold determination that makes you do the impossible.

More Than Just Exercise. Cycling is a practical and enjoyable way to incorporate physical activity into daily life. It's a form of transportation that also provides exercise, reduces stress, and connects you with your surroundings.

Environmental and Health Benefits. Cycling reduces traffic congestion, pollution, and the risk of chronic diseases. It's a sustainable and healthy way to get around.

A Sisu-Building Activity. Cycling, especially in challenging weather conditions, can be a sisu-building activity. It requires determination and resilience, helping you to overcome obstacles and build inner strength.

9. Movement as Medicine: Prioritizing Physical Activity

Movement as medicine.

Beyond Pills. The concept of "movement as medicine" emphasizes the importance of physical activity for maintaining overall well-being and health. It's about using movement to prevent or manage certain conditions.

Incidental Exercise. Incidental exercise refers to physical activity that is not exercise per se, such as housecleaning, walking to work, or playing with children. These activities can have significant health benefits.

A Holistic Approach. By prioritizing movement and reducing reliance on medication, you can improve your physical and mental health. It's about finding ways to incorporate activity into your daily routine and making it a sustainable part of your lifestyle.

10. Nordic Minimalism: Simplifying Life for Greater Fulfillment

Beauty is the harmony of purpose and form.

Less is More. Nordic minimalism is about simplifying life and focusing on what truly matters. It's about decluttering your physical space and your mental space, creating room for greater fulfillment.

Sustainable Consumption. Nordic design emphasizes well-made, functional items that are ethically produced and built to last. It's about investing in quality over quantity and reducing waste.

A Shift in Perspective. By embracing Nordic minimalism, you can shift your focus away from material possessions and towards experiences, relationships, and personal growth. It's about creating a life that is more meaningful and sustainable.

Last updated: April 24, 2025