Discovering "Friluftsliv"

Have you heard the word friluftsliv before?
It’s a Norwegian term made from three words—free, air, and life. In English, it’s usually translated as “outdoor life.” The fun part is, friluftsliv is all about being outside. Whether it’s hiking to see Norway’s scenic views, strolling through the neighborhood woods, or heading out to pick berries—it’s all friluftsliv.

I first came across the word during my June trip to the Netherlands and Norway. While in Norway, I stopped by an outdoor gear shop called Norrøna and picked up one of their free marketing magazines—mostly because the epic cover photo caught my eye. It’s been lying around our living room ever since, until yesterday when my husband told me it was time to either put it away or toss it. I declared, “I’ll read it before I throw it out!”—and ended up getting completely absorbed. Even though I’m usually lazy about reading in English, I lost track of time flipping through it.

The whole magazine was dedicated to friluftsliv—starting with what it is, to how Norwegians see nature, the history of outdoor organizations, the Norwegian right to roam (everyone can freely access nature—even on private property—but with respect and manners), an interview with an experienced hiker about climbing the Himalayas, and even a section on Norwegian sauna culture. All of it connected to life outdoors. And from cover to cover, it was packed with the most epic photographs. I can’t help but envy Norwegians for having such a deep cultural connection to nature! (Apparently, 90% of the population is interested in friluftsliv, actively passes down the skills and sensibility to the next generation, and ties it naturally to conservation efforts. What a well-rounded way to share and preserve nature!)

After spending over a week stuck in bed sick, I’m finally on the mend. Reading this magazine made me itch to get outside again. I started daydreaming about going back to Starved Rock and had to stop myself from getting too eager too fast. But even just going for a short neighborhood walk counts as friluftsliv! Sure, you can guess the strength of the sunlight from indoors, but you can only feel the cool shade under the trees or hear the beauty of birdsong by actually stepping outside.