In an innovative approach to combating modern burnout, doctors are now officially prescribing the Scandinavian wilderness of Sweden as a treatment. While it may sound like a clever tourism campaign, one writer decided to test this unconventional prescription by embarking on a five-day digital detox through one of Europe's most remote regions.
The Prescription for Modern Life
The concept, promoted by Visit Sweden, encourages activities like wild swimming, sauna bathing, sleeping under the stars, and even listening to Swedish metal bands to reset both mind and body. In summer 2023, facing her own battle with screen addiction and burnout, journalist Annabel Grossman put this theory to the test by heading to Swedish Lapland for an organised trek along the famous Kungsleden Trail.
Grossman packed the essentials - tent, sleeping bag, cooking stove, freeze-dried food and waterproofs - but made one crucial decision: she left her phone behind. This came after receiving an alarming iPhone alert revealing she'd been averaging six hours and twenty-five minutes of screen time daily.
Life Off the Grid
The journey began on the Kungsleden Trail (The King's Trail), specifically the section between Nikkaluokta and Abisko. This remote path through Lapland features birch forests, mountain plains, fast-flowing streams and icy lakes, with the mighty Kebnekaise mountain providing a dramatic backdrop.
The vast majority of this trail has no phone service, making digital detox not just optional but enforced. Grossman participated in the Fjällräven Classic, an organised trek designed to help backpackers experience the outdoors safely. Once you start, there's no bailing out - you either continue to Abisko or return to Nikkaluokta, with helicopter evacuation being the only alternative.
Lessons from the Wilderness
Among the fellow hikers was Sebastian Slovin, founder of Nature Unplugged, an organisation dedicated to helping people disconnect from digital lives. Surprisingly, both agreed that technology itself isn't the enemy - rather, it's how we use it.
"With intention, we can use our devices as tools that enhance our lives," Slovin explained. "Without intention, it's all too easy to end up in a vortex of nonstop notifications that can take control of our lives."
The physical challenges were undeniable - throbbing feet, aching back from carrying 15kg, and cold seeping through layers. Yet more striking than any discomfort was the profound tranquility. The experience provided what Slovin described as "the perfect antidote to tech over-use," with nature proven to boost positive emotions and reduce blood pressure, heart rate and cortisol levels.
Human connections deepened without digital distractions. Instead of scrolling through Instagram or answering WhatsApp messages during breaks, Grossman found herself engaging in meaningful conversations with fellow hikers, learning practical skills like proper backpack fitting, and even picking up Spanish from Chilean and Brazilian companions.
The Reality of Returning
Months after returning home, Grossman admits her bedroom isn't tech-free, and she still checks her phone frequently. However, the experience provided valuable perspective: if nature serves as the antidote to digital overload, she's willing to occasionally take the poison - provided she plans her next wilderness escape soon.
Practical Information for Hikers
The Kungsleden Trail stretches over 400 kilometres from Hemavan to Abisko in northern Sweden. The most popular section between Nikkaluokta and Abisko is largely flat but rocky, with the highest point at Tjäktja Pass (1,150 metres above sea level). Most hikers complete this section in around four and a half days, covering 20-25 kilometres daily.
Kiruna serves as the best airport access point, requiring connection through Stockholm from UK airports including London, Edinburgh and Manchester. Transfer buses to both Nikkaluokta and Abisko take approximately 1-1.5 hours, costing from SEK499 (£38).
Recommended accommodation includes Hotel Arctic Eden in Kiruna for pre-trek stays and the more luxurious Abisko Mountain Lodge for post-hike recovery, complete with traditional Swedish sauna to soothe tired muscles after several nights camping.
