In recent years, there always seems to be a new popular lifestyle concept from Nordic countries. Yet, far from being a fad that has little effect on your wellbeing, embracing some of them could actually make you happier.
The Nordic countries are the perfect nations to help us discover what makes people happy. They consistently rank highly across all areas of wellbeing.
Indeed, Finland was ranked the happiest country in the 2025 World Happiness Report for the eighth consecutive year. The other four Nordic countries – Denmark, Iceland, Norway, and Sweden – are all in the top 10.
There are hundreds of factors that affect your happiness, including health and wealth. However, the research found some of the most positive influences are simpler, such as sharing a meal with others, having social support, and being part of a reliable community.
So, what simple lifestyle concepts could you embrace from the Nordic nations? Here are five cultural concepts that could improve your quality of life.
1. Dugnadsånd
Dugnadsånd is the latest Norwegian concept to gain traction in the UK. It loosely translates to “community spirit” or “working together for a common good”.
Dugnadsånd could be as simple as lending a helping hand to a friend who’s moving house or has just welcomed a new baby. Or it could involve entire communities coming together to volunteer to clean up the local area. The focus is on helping others and forming stronger social bonds while doing so.
With the World Happiness Report highlighting the importance of social connections, Dugnadsånd could improve your overall wellbeing and that of people around you.
2. Friluftsliv
With stunning mountains, fjords, and beautiful forests, it’s not surprising that many people in Norway and Sweden embrace the great outdoors. Friluftsliv means “open-air living” or living life “in the fresh air”.
From hiking to relaxing by a lake, friluftsliv is about enjoying all that nature has to offer, regardless of the weather.
There are plenty of studies that support this lifestyle trend. Indeed, an NHS study found that 80% of people found spending time in green spaces made them healthier and more energetic, and 70% said they felt better physically and mentally.
The good news is the UK has great options for embracing friluftsliv, from your local green space to one of the stunning national parks.
3. Hygge
After spending time outdoors, you’ll be ready to try your hand at the art of hygge, the Danish concept of creating a cosy and comforting environment where you can unwind and spend time on the things you enjoy.
So, that might be settling down on the sofa with a good book, tucking into a homemade meal with your family, or just chatting with your partner into the evening. Hygge is a useful reminder that sometimes you need to slow down and enjoy the small, peaceful moments in life.
4. Lagom
Lagom is a concept you can apply to many areas of your life. It means “just right” and is about finding balance and moderation.
It encourages Swedes to think about appreciating what they have and sustainability. You might try to implement it in your working life, your approach to food, and the time you dedicate to relationships. It’s about finding a balance that’s right for you, so your life is fulfilling, healthy, and happy.
5. Fika
Finally, fika is Swedish for a “coffee break that you enjoy with a sweet treat”, but it’s about much more than indulging in your favourite drink and snack. Rather, it’s dedicating time to spend with family, friends, or colleagues to forge stronger social connections or simply reflect.
As the World Happiness Index report found, social connections are an essential part of creating a happy lifestyle for many people. So, invite someone out for a coffee, put away your phone, and focus on being present.
You can fika alone and benefit too. Head to a hidden gem that sells excellent coffee that you can savour without distractions and use the time to simply slow down.
Make Nordic lifestyle concepts part of your day
You don’t need to head to Stockholm or the wilderness of Norway to make these lifestyle trends part of your daily routine. Incorporating even small elements of dugnadsånd, friluftsliv, hygge, lagom, or fika into your week could improve your wellbeing.
