When I think about Finnishness, I don’t just think about Finland as a country. I think about my home village, Juokslahti, in the heart of Central Finland. For me, Finnishness is rooted in the forests, the lakes, and the people who shape everyday life here.
Juokslahti lies by Lake Päijänne, surrounded by endless forests and farmlands. Nature is not just something you look at here — it’s part of your everyday life. My favorite place is Ruonanvuori, a hill where I often go hiking. Standing there, looking over the landscape, I feel the quiet strength of Finnish nature.
For me, Finnishness is best represented by summer. After the long, cold, and dark winter, nature wakes up in Juokslahti and everything feels alive again. Some of my happiest moments have been at the cottage, where the rhythm of life slows down. There is nothing better than sitting in the sauna, dipping into the cool lake, and listening only to the wind. That silence, that peace, is something deeply Finnish.
But Finnishness is not just about nature — it’s also about people. In rural areas like Juokslahti, the community is close-knit. Everyone knows each other, and neighbors are always ready to help when needed. It feels like belonging to an extended family. On national holidays, the village comes together, organizes parties, and celebrates as a community. That openness and friendliness is what makes small villages so special.
Traditions also shape how I see Finnishness. Sauna is a central part of life — not only in summer but also in winter, when we heat ourselves up, then take a dip into icy water to refresh both body and mind. Winters in Juokslahti were also filled with activities like skiing at the nearby Himos resort or riding motocross at the local track. These experiences shaped my childhood and are a big part of how I connect with Finnish culture.
If I had to describe Finnishness in one feeling, it would be a combination of friendliness, quiet strength, and resilience. People here may be reserved, but they are never rude. They are always ready to help, and they carry within them “sisu” — that unique Finnish energy that pushes us through challenges no matter what.
For me, Juokslahti is more than a village. It is a reflection of Finnishness itself: the beauty of nature, the warmth of community, the traditions of everyday life, and the spirit of sisu.
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