Tim Bird, 70, moved to Finland in the 1980s and now holds dual citizenship. He reveals why life in the 'world's happiest country' is superior to the UK in his new book, citing safety, nature, and contentment. Discover his story.
Tim Bird, 70, moved to Finland in the 1980s and now holds dual citizenship. He explains why the 'world's happiest country' offers a better quality of life, safety, and nature than the UK. Read his story.
Discover how the 'Friction Maxxing' movement argues that adding intentional inconvenience to daily tasks can lead to greater satisfaction and mindfulness. Could less tech make you happier?
Finland's national curriculum builds media literacy from age three to combat Russian disinformation. Experts now integrate AI literacy to tackle AI-generated fake content. Read how they protect democracy.
Discover simple, uplifting ideas from Guardian writers and readers to boost your mental wellbeing. From urban walks to shared playlists, find your daily dose of joy.
New research reveals UK couples who spend on time-saving services like takeaways report greater relationship satisfaction. Discover how buying back time can strengthen your bond.
Forget gruelling self-improvement. The key to happiness in 2026 is giving yourself permission to prioritise genuine enjoyment and live a more absorbing life right now.
Forget gruelling self-improvement. The key to wellbeing in 2026 is giving yourself permission to do more of what you genuinely enjoy. Discover the compelling case for prioritising pleasure.
Finnish police detain two and impose travel bans on others after a ship damages critical telecoms infrastructure in the Gulf of Finland. Read the latest on the investigation.
Finland detains a ship's crew suspected of damaging a critical telecoms cable in the Gulf of Finland. The incident raises fresh security fears over Europe's vulnerable underwater infrastructure.
Ditch the predictable dinner and drinks. Happiness research reveals how active, challenging experiences—from lino printing to karaoke—create more joy and connection for a better night out.
New York Yankees infielder Jazz Chisholm Jr celebrates Christmas in Finland with partner Ahnalys Santiago in matching Grinch onesies, as trade rumours swirl. See the festive footage.
From reindeer steaks in Helsinki to three million saunas, we explore the unique delights that keep Finland ranked as the world's happiest country for eight years running.
A TUI rep reveals what it's really like to work in Lapland's Arctic winter, from husky rides and reindeer pizza to just two hours of daylight. Discover the magic and challenges.
Finland's government apologises after Miss Universe contestant's photo sparks racism accusations across Asia. Read the full story on the diplomatic fallout.
Poland resumes Cold War-era border mining, while Miss Finland apologises for a racist gesture. Global news covers a fatal India crash, Louvre strikes, and Lithuanian arrests. Read the full briefing.
British families are furious over expensive UK Lapland 'experiences', with costs hitting £955. Discover how real trips to Finland offer better value to see Santa and the Northern Lights.
Can money truly buy happiness? We speak to two women—one who married into extreme wealth and one who earned her own—to uncover the gritty reality of life with millions. Discover the trade-offs, the freedoms, and the surprising truths.
Manchester United are set to play in Finland for the first time in 60 years in a lucrative pre-season friendly against Hollywood-backed Wrexham. Get the full story on this historic fixture.
TV presenter Davina McCall reveals how wearing sexy underwear boosts her mood, discusses overcoming a brain tumour and breast cancer, and her joyous return to TV on The Masked Singer. Read her inspiring story.
The Guardian invites US readers to share the news stories from 2025 that brought them hope or happiness. Contribute your ray of light from a challenging year.
British soldiers from 3 Rifles undergo intense Arctic warfare training with Finnish troops near the Russian border. Discover how the alliance is preparing for potential threats. Read the full report.
British soldiers from 3 Rifles undergo intense Arctic warfare training in Finland, honing survival skills at -28°C and joining Finnish forces in a major defence exercise near the Russian border. Discover how Nato is preparing.
Dr Alex George and psychotherapist Anna Mathur share science-backed tools for emotional regulation and accessing joy, from their discussion on The Independent's Well Enough podcast.
Discover the most valuable life lessons from those who've lived them. From embracing failure to finding joy in small moments - wisdom that transforms lives. Read and reflect now.
Discover how a savvy mum from Nottinghamshire saved £500 on a magical Lapland holiday by booking directly in Finland instead of the UK version. Her budget-friendly tips include flight hacks and accommodation secrets.
Emma Thompson and daughter Gaia Wise returned to Helsinki to promote their new thriller, Dead Of Winter. Discover their on-screen collaboration and personal journey.
As Ukraine peace talks continue, Finland rehearses guerrilla warfare against potential Russian threat. New book 'The Winter Warriors' reveals crucial historical parallels.
Finland remains the world's happiest nation for the 8th year, but soaring unemployment and austerity measures threaten its crown. Discover the surprising truth.
Finland faces economic stagnation and rising unemployment despite being named world's happiest country for eighth year. Discover the paradox behind Nordic resilience.