To cope with the cold and avoid getting depressed until spring, Mômji explains to you some of the ways of life in Scandinavian countries, so that you can draw inspiration from them and endure the bad weather.
Temperatures have already lowered, it's dark by 5pm, and your spirits are starting to drop. But northern European countries are used to these depressing weather conditions.
So, to cheer ourselves up while we wait for the warm weather to return, why not borrow some of their wellness methods?
The Lagom
The Lagom philosophy, which originated in Sweden, is all about finding a balance, a happy medium between the different aspects of your life. Be productive, have a healthy diet and exercise, yes, but not without allowing yourself moments of serenity.
For Lagom enthusiasts, looking for daily well-being can be summed up in one word: moderation.
Mômji's advice: When you build your schedule, set aside moments when you don't plan anything. At the end of the day, or between the end of work and the start of your bedtime routine, leave an empty space 100% reserved for your spontaneity.
The Koselig
Koselig is a concept from Norway that involves taking breaks, time exclusively reserved for yourself. It's a way to actually not make any effort when you don't have to.
It's the perfect time to switch off and curl up under a blanket with a good book or favorite TV series, and a cup of hot chocolate.
With the Koselig, we slow down a little and listen to ourselves: if we feel like being inactive after a long week, well, why not!
Mômji's advice: Strengthen your ability to say no. If you're in the mood for some peace and quiet, for a special moment with yourself, then go for it. Refuse to hang out if you don't feel like it. Your social life will be all the more enjoyable for it!
The Hygge
Positivity and comfort are the watchwords of Hygge, the Danish concept. The idea is to make the most of the positive moments in everyday life whether it’s an evening out with friends, a walk in the woods or a hot bath.
This state of mind is very widespread: it advocates seeing the positive side, and appreciating the little things and events of everyday life.
More concretely, Hygge applies to the home design of different living spaces. We create an atmosphere that is both minimalist and full of softness.
Mômji's advice: Redecorate your home, as you'll be spending a lot of time there over the next few months! Choose comfortable furniture and textiles (plaids, rugs), preferably in raw materials (wood, wool, linen).
For the various decorative elements, opt for green, brown, cream or pale pink sweet tones. And last but not least: invest your space with garlands or candles, to diffuse a warm, comforting light.
ThFriluftsliv
Also originally from Norway, the Friluftsliv concept is all about building relationships with others, in harmony with nature.
At its best, it's about living in a natural, wooded space, in tune with the seasons. But for most of us, it's more a question of temporarily interrupting our city life to venture into the wild with friends or family, doing our best to leave no trace.
To forge those links, you can plan activities in pairs or small groups. When it comes to nature, you'll want to go outdoors: hiking, running, climbing... all in a natural setting where you can enjoy the peace and quiet, the flora and fauna, and often a wonderful view.
Mômji's advice: If you're lucky enough to live in the countryside (or near), don’t wait and go for it! You can find activity camps or hiking trails, and invite your friends and family to share a moment there on a weekend or after a stressful day.
If you live in the city, you can also organize excursions and plan the time and cost of the journey. But you can also start with a simple walk through the local park. Even in small amounts, a little green still does good!
