Friluftsliv

Februar = fjorten dager friluftsliv

As a fervent hiker, Henrik Ibsen gave name to a concept already deeply rooted in the Norwegian psyche: friluftsliv (free-loofts-leave). Roughly translated as “life in the free air,” the idea is to immerse yourself in nature, resulting in benefits to mind, body and spirit.

Over the past year, friluftsliv has become a buzzword around the globe as people seek to maintain mental and physical balance during Covid. A more modern interpretation can apply to any activity that allows you to appreciate the outdoors in a simple manner. There’s no need for stopwatches or competition—in fact, the simpler you go, the better.

Being the shortest month, February is the perfect time to try and get outside every other day. Starting on the first of the month, why not challenge yourself to experience friluftsliv at least half of the days in February? Post photos and anecdotes on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram with the hashtags #14dagerfriluftsliv #14daysoffriluftsliv #sonsofnorway and encourage your friends and family to give it a go, wherever they are!

Ok, we used the word “challenge” in that last paragraph—this is starting to sound rather competitive! But think of it more as a challenge to yourself. Let’s keep things low-key and see how many ways there are to experience friluftsliv.

See

• Watch a sunrise or sunset
• Go stargazing
• Adventure coffee
• Unplug for a whole day
• Prepare and eat a meal in your yard
• Observe birds
• Walk around
• Take nature photos
• Climb a tree
• Put the kids in the yard

Do

• Outdoor yoga
• Take a polar plunge
• Sauna / roll in snow
• Build a snowman or snow fort
• Find some trees and put up a hammock
• Try an outdoor craft
• Visit the dog park
• Build a campfire
• Walk your errands
• Chop your own wood
• Ice skating
• Try out a kick sled

Go

• Head to the highest point in your town
• Dog-sledding or skijoring
• Find a new park
• Go sledding
• Take a picnic hike
• Visit a scenic overlook
• Downhill or XC Ski
• Bike commute to nowhere
• Fishing or ice fishing
• Try snowshoeing
• Take a new route
• Winter camping

*If you can’t get outside: open the window and breathe some fresh air.
Immerse yourself in some beautiful nature scenes, sights, winds and bird calls.