Covid-19
A Smithsonian Magazine Special Report
With large indoor gatherings off-limits, the Covid-19 pandemic is giving everyone more reason to stay outside.
By Laura Kiniry
Travel Correspondent
October 19, 2020
A few winters ago, I found myself in Norway, surrounded by a snowy wonderland. As the flakes danced down in Oslo, locals braved the chill to embrace the beauty of the great outdoors. The parks were filled with people gliding on cross-country skis, while couples huddled against the icy winds atop the snow-laden roof of the stunning Oslo Opera House. I, too, joined in on the festivities, taking a horse-drawn wagon ride to the picturesque Nordmarka wilderness. There, we kindled a campfire—its vibrant flames a stark contrast to the white landscape—sipping mulled wine and roasting hot dogs. The temperature barely hit 16 degrees Fahrenheit, yet I felt an unparalleled joy.
What was the secret to this winter bliss?
Leslie Anne Anderson, director of collections, exhibitions, and programs at the National Nordic Museum in Seattle, offers insights into the Nordic ethos: “There’s a real idea of balance in Nordic countries—one that emphasizes connecting with nature, regardless of the season.” Perhaps unsurprisingly, these countries often rank among the happiest in the world. With winter days marked by limited sunlight, Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Iceland, and Finland have mastered the art of turning the season into an opportunity for outdoor adventure, particularly as the pandemic keeps indoor gatherings at bay.
The term friluftsliv, roughly translating to “outdoor living,” encapsulates this spirit of embracing nature. Synne Kvam, communications manager at Norsk Friluftsliv, elaborates, “It includes everything from skiing in local parks to mountain biking through snowy trails. But it’s about more than just activities; it’s about enjoying the calm of the outdoors, perhaps while relishing the aroma of coffee brewing over a fire.”
Another cozy Nordic tradition worth noting is hygge, a Danish concept of snug warmth and contentment, whether that’s curling up with a good book by the fire or sharing a bottle of wine with close friends. Anderson suggests adapting this comfort to the outdoors: “Consider winter camping in a warm sleeping bag or wrapping yourself in a thick blanket under the stars.”
In the U.S., we can draw inspiration from how Nordic countries have come to embrace winter’s chill. For example, in Finland, it’s common to see parents letting their babies nap outdoors, even in freezing conditions, believing this practice contributes to robust health and well-being. For adults, avantouinti—or ice swimming—becomes an invigorating routine, often flanked by a session in a sauna. Graeme Jones, founder of Nordic Clinic Stockholm, notes, “Experiencing environmental extremes can activate our survival mechanisms, enhancing longevity and mitigating chronic diseases.”
Tim Frandy, an assistant professor of Folk Studies at Western Kentucky University, points out that the soothing ritual of hydrotherapy, especially among middle-aged and elderly women in Finland, offers a meditative experience. “They calmly transition from sauna to icy water, swimming a few laps before emerging, unlike the chaotic “polar bear plunges” we see elsewhere,” he shares.
Frandy, a member of the Sámi American community from Wisconsin, reflects on his upbringing: “We don’t let cold weather deter us,” he says. This resourcefulness is typical of Nordic inhabitants, who journey outside to build snölykta—beautiful snow lanterns—or enjoy serene woodland walks, even in the depth of winter.
“Nordic countries have vast tracts of accessible land,” Frandy explains, emphasizing the values of Everyman’s Right, which grants anyone the freedom to explore both public and private lands. “This freedom allows us to camp, light fires, or take quiet strolls without distractions, opening the door to deeper appreciation of the natural world around us,” Kvam adds.
“There’s something powerful about experiencing snowfall with others or finding solitude amid nature on a chilly day,” Anderson remarks. With winter beckoning, she encourages activities that draw you outdoors—whether it’s sledding, snowshoeing, or even foraging for chestnuts to roast later.
“Ultimately, it’s about seeking what resonates with you in nature,” Kvam concludes, urging those curious about winter sports to partner up with seasoned enthusiasts.
Other Countries that Do Winter Well
While Nordic nations shine in winter mastery, several other countries boast their own unique approaches to embracing the season’s chill. Here are four more places to draw inspiration from this winter:
Lithuania
Renata Stanaityte, a native of Lithuania, shares how winter storytelling brings families together. “We complete chores by day, then in the evenings, we cozy up with tea and folktales,” she says. Ice fishing is also a cherished tradition, while locals often feed wild animals on the coldest days, reinforcing their bond with nature.
Canada
Canada offers many winter delights, from skating on Ottawa’s Rideau Canal to fondue gatherings in Quebec that warm both body and soul. Newfoundland features “boil-ups,” breaks spent brewing tea over open fires. Danielle Paquet, recalling childhood in Quebec, expresses that these moments blend culinary warmth with the wilderness, capturing the spirit of outdoor fellowship.
Germany
In Germany, words like erlebnis and waldeinsamkeit capture the essence of winter enjoyment. Erlebnis hints at deeply immersing oneself in moments, while waldeinsamkeit reflects the spiritual experience of solitude in the woods. Picture trekking outdoors with a thermos of mulled wine, savoring the unique charms winter brings.
Japan
In Japan, the experience of soaking in an onsen—a natural hot spring surrounded by snow—offers an unparalleled winter retreat. As resorts adapt to current conditions, they provide guests with a tranquil refuge paired with breathtaking winter scenery. Here, wellness, energy, and enthusiasm intertwine with winter’s icy embrace, reminding us of the beauty that can be found in the cold.
Embrace the outdoors this winter—whether you’re sheltered by layers or wrapped in the warmth of companionship. The joy of winter adventure awaits.