By SANDRA HARVIS – In a world that often feels rushed, where emails ping endlessly and calendars are crammed full, it’s easy to forget about slowing down. But in Sweden, the idea of taking things slow isn’t just a trend—it’s a way of life. There’s even a word for it: “lagom”, meaning “just the right amount.” It’s a concept that permeates Swedish culture and encourages balance, moderation, and most importantly, taking time to live in the moment.
Lagom: The Art of Balance
At the heart of Sweden’s slow living philosophy is lagom. It’s not about minimalism or doing without, but about finding balance in every aspect of life. Whether it’s work, home, or relationships, lagom teaches that too much of anything—whether it’s working too hard or even relaxing too much—throws life off balance. For Swedes, this isn’t a forced practice; it’s ingrained in their approach to everything, from their work ethic to how they design their homes.
In Swedish workplaces, for example, it’s rare to find people working late into the night. The idea of work-life balance is taken seriously. The focus is on being productive during regular hours and then going home to enjoy family time, hobbies, or simply unwind. It’s not about squeezing every drop of energy into work, but about working efficiently and taking time to recharge.
Fika: Taking a Break with Purpose
Then, of course, there’s fika, Sweden’s famous coffee break. But fika isn’t just grabbing a quick cup of coffee between meetings—it’s about stepping away from the hustle and enjoying a few quiet moments with friends or colleagues. A fika break often involves coffee, maybe a pastry, and more importantly, a chance to socialize and take a breath. It’s almost like a ritual. These breaks are common both at work and at home, emphasizing that it’s okay—even necessary—to take time for yourself and others.
What’s interesting about fika is how deeply it’s embedded in daily life. Even in the busiest of environments, people make time for it. Maybe we could learn something from this in our own fast-paced culture, where taking a break can sometimes feel like slacking off.
Connection to Nature
Another aspect of Swedish slow living is the close relationship with nature, often summed up in the concept of friluftsliv. It’s a term that loosely translates to “open-air living” and speaks to the importance of spending time outdoors. Whether it’s hiking, skiing, or simply going for a walk in the woods, Swedes have a deep connection to nature, and they don’t rush through these moments. Even in winter, you’ll find people bundled up, walking through forests or around lakes. The fresh air, they believe, clears the mind and offers a break from the demands of modern life.
Takeaway
The Swedish way of life reminds us to slow down, to breathe, and to find balance. Lagom, fika, friluftsliv—these aren’t just words but reminders that life isn’t meant to be hurried through. Maybe it’s time we all took a page out of the Swedish playbook and embraced the art of slow living. After all, there’s no rush.
