Finnishness can be a lot of things. For me, the main thing must be it’s nature and small beautiful things it brings. Finnish people values nature deeply and often feels more calm in nature, which is why we are getting used to being in nature from a very early age. Already in kindergarten we make trips in nature. There are many porches built in the woods and anyone can use them, if they are not in private areas.
Which brings me to the main point of my appreciation of forests. We have this thing called jokaisen oikeus which basically gives anyone rights to move freely in forests no matter whose land it belongs to as long as you respect the nature and don’t disturb anyones home peace. For example, you can walk, ski, bike, collect berries and mushrooms and fish freely almost anywhere. Many people collect a lot of berries and mushrooms and sell them in farmers markets.
Here is some cloudberries me and my mother collected and ate on a walk in a forest near our home.
You can also spend nights in forests in tents if it’s not too near to anyones home.
Second thing that is the most important for me about Finnish nature is the four seasons we have. They all are so unique in their own way and also the fact that there are not four seasons everywhere is very important to remember. Here are some of my favourite things about each season :
Spring. Snow melts and people slowly start to feel more excited about summer that is coming. Nature slowly comes back to life and we see the small details of nature, how different plants and flowers start to bloom one by one, how the lakes melt from the ice and how days get longer and birds return. Many people start enjoying the weather by jogging more and cycling.
Summer. It’s the most warm and brightest season. The sun doesn’t set at all especially in the North and nature is the most green. Flowers everywhere and people enjoy the warmth and spend a lot of time outdoors and cottages. Also the cities seems to come to life and open their porches. Grilling and festivals are very popular at this time.
Autumn. Leaves are all kinds of beautiful colors and then fall down. The weather gets colder and rain increases. Many people love sauna at this time and candles and relaxing. Also the start of autumn is the best time for certain berries and mushrooms for picking.
Winter. The coldest season, usually with a lot of snow and freezing temperatures. Northern lights are common in the North especially. Days are very short but sauna and winter hobbies help a lot. Activities like skiing, snowboarding, ice skating and sledding are very popular.
Every season has unique things and details, and their diversity is wonderful. These are the things I mostly appreciate about Finnishness.
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