After living in Finland for a little over a year, I am starting to notice ways in which moving here has changed my daily life.
1. I appreciate sunlight much, much more
In a country where autumn and winter are exceptionally long, dark, and generally miserable, every sliver of sunlight must be appreciated. Even if the sun is shining on your face and you can’t see anything at all. It’s the sun, and it’s glorious.
2. A newfound appreciation for my home
I am much more attuned to my surroundings, and home is meant to be a cozy haven to escape the aforementioned darkness. Having tea in a nice mug, perhaps while burning a candle, is scientifically proven to improve your mood by 100%.
3. Layers for days
The changeable weather, as well as amazing insulation inside buildings, means that we spend our days alternating between hot and cold environments. And the only way to survive this is through layers. Lots and lots of them, so you can peel like an onion whenever you step inside.
4. Body positivity
The first time I went to a public sauna, I was mortified. So much so, that I actually broke the rules –gasp—and went in there with my swimsuit. It was after a minute or so that I realized there’s actually nothing wrong with being comfortable in one’s body, and so I promptly hung my swimsuit outside and went back in. And I haven’t looked back since! It’s extremely liberating.
5. Carpe diem
So, Finns can be pretty negative and self-deprecating. Yet, especially during long summer days in the park, the forest, or by a lake, there is this lingering feeling in the air that life is short, beautiful and meant to be enjoyed.
Here’s to the next year of invaluable life lessons!