Three Swedish Traditions to Practice This New Year
Finding happy.
The most recent World Happiness Report ranked Sweden as the 7th happiest country on earth, which begs the question: what makes Swedes so happy, and how can we replicate it? Many believe that Swedes are so happy due to their cultural traditions that promote well-being, work/life balance, and togetherness. Below, NUVO has rounded up three essential Swedish traditions to get you through the rest of the winter.
Fika
Fika, the custom that entails a cup of coffee and something sweet to eat (ideally kanelbullar, Swedish cinnamon buns), exemplifies Sweden’s enviable attitude towards leisure. Fika may not be as elegant as high tea, it can be as simple as asking a colleague to go for an espresso and a pastry, but this simple wellness trick can help you improve your mental wellbeing.
Lillordag
Lillördag, which loosely translates to “Little Saturday,” is a custom that encourages people to take a mid-week break and remind yourself that the weekend is not too far away. There are no rules to Lillördag, whether popping a bottle of champagne or treating yourself to an extra slice of pizza, your “little Saturday” is up to you.
Mys
Denmark may have hygge, but Sweden has mys, the art of cosying up and chilling out. Like Canada, the winters in Sweden can be bleak, so why not brew a cup of tea, wrap yourself in a blanket, and indulge in a good movie or book like the Swedes do?
