It’s Thursday so I hope you are ready for a dose of inspiration. As I live through life, especially as a mother, I often find myself caught in the whirlwind of daily responsibilities. It feels like time slips through my fingers, and our children grow up in the blink of an eye. If you resonate with this, you’re not alone.
In my quest to provide some mindfulness in life, I want to share something close to my heart: the concept of ‘friluftsdag’ or the joy of spending time outdoors. Today our youngest, a spirited 6-year-old, has a ‘friluftsdag’ at school. It’s a beautiful Swedish tradition that emphasizes the importance of being in nature.
At his school, they embrace the outdoors, stepping outside 4 to 5 times a day, regardless of the weather. It reminds me of a saying in the Netherlands: “There’s no bad weather, just bad clothes.” It’s a standard for all the kids having an extra pair of rain boots at school, a raincoat, and pants for those wet days. In the winter, they bundle up in warm overalls. They are always outside, and it got me thinking.
Why is spending time outdoors so important, not only for our children but also for us?
Nature has the ability to soothe our souls. The fresh air, the rustling leaves, the song of birds… It’s like therapy for the mind and spirit. A short walk in the park can work wonders for your mood and stress levels. Outdoor activities also encourage physical exercise. Whether it’s a walk, a bike ride, or simply playing with your children in the yard, these moments contribute to our overall health. It’s a chance to bond as a family, away from the distractions of screens and daily routines, and to ground in the present moment.
So let’s go outside and embrace the wisdom of ‘friluftsdag’. Need some inspiration? Here are some tips to bring more outdoor joy into your life:
Tips for Embracing the Outdoor:
- Start Small: You don’t need to plan grand outdoor adventures. Begin with short walks or picnics in your local park.
- Make it a Habit: Try to incorporate outdoor time into your daily routine, even if it’s just for a few minutes. Stepping outside during work breaks can be refreshing.
- Family Adventure: Plan family outings to natural spaces. It could be a hike, a visit to a botanical garden, or a day at the beach.
- Disconnect: Leave your devices behind when you head outdoors. Enjoy the simplicity of being fully present in nature.
- Seasonal Fun: Embrace the changing seasons. From spring blossoms to autumn foliage to winter snow, each season offers unique outdoor experiences.
It’s a gift we can give ourselves and our families. A chance to slow down, connect, and find balance in this fast-paced world.
Wishing you peaceful moments in the great outdoors! And if you need some me-time, join my online yoga class on Saturday morning 9.30 – 10.30.
See you outside!
Kalinka