Norwegians have a deep-rooted connection with nature, encapsulated in the concept of 'friluftsliv', which translates to 'free-air life'. This way of living, coined by playwright Henrik Ibsen in 1859, is central to the Norwegian national identity and is believed to contribute to their well-being.
According to a survey by Kantar TNS, 83% of Norwegians are interested in friluftsliv, with 77% spending time in nature weekly and 25% doing so most days. The country's official statistics office reported that 25% of Norwegians had stayed outdoors overnight in 2021. Bente Lier, secretary general of Norsk Friluftsliv, notes that even other Nordic countries acknowledge Norwegians' greater engagement with nature.
Friluftsliv is not limited to specific activities; it includes hiking, kayaking, skiing, berry picking, or simply sitting in the woods. Stine Schultz Heireng, general secretary of the Norwegian Guide and Scout Association, exemplifies this by regularly sleeping outdoors. The practice is taught from an early age, with children in kindergarten often napping outdoors in winter, and schools dedicating days to outdoor activities.
The mental benefits of friluftsliv are significant. A 2020 survey found that 90% of Norwegians felt less stressed and in a better mood after spending time in nature. Professor Helga Synnevåg Løvoll from Volda University College explains that friluftsliv can achieve the five documented ways to wellbeing: connect, be active, take notice, keep learning, and give.
Easy access to green spaces is a key factor, with about 40% of Norway covered in forest and most towns surrounded by it. From Oslo Central station, a 20-minute metro ride leads to forest trails. Despite rain, many people engage in Nordic walking, trail running, and cycling, demonstrating the widespread embrace of friluftsliv.
