Being born and raised in Finland, the concept of Finnishness is something that has always been a part of my identity, even if I didn’t always recognize it. At first, I thought that Finnish culture was just a matter of traditions and customs that everyone followed. But over time, I realized that Finnishness goes much deeper. For me the two most important things in Finnish culture are our beautiful nature and sauna.
For Finns, nature is an essential part of who we are. Growing up, I spent most of my free time outdoors. Finland is blessed with forests, lakes, and the stunning Northern Lights, and these natural elements are really beautiful and unique.
One of the things I love most about Finland is how the rhythm of life is intertwined with the seasons. Whether it’s picking berries in the summer or skiing in the winter, every season offers a new way to connect with nature. I remember as a child, my family would often go berry-picking in the forest near our summer cottage, filling baskets with lingonberries and blueberries, while I learned to appreciate the peace and calm of the Finnish wilderness.
As a Finn, I can tell you that sauna is much more than just a way to relax. The sauna is where Finns come to shed the stresses of everyday life, to connect with themselves and others in a deeply personal way. For me, it’s a space to think, reflect, and enjoy the stillness of my thoughts.
I’ve spent countless hours in saunas whether it’s a small cottage sauna by the lake or a modern one in the city. The heat, the quiet, and the connection to nature all come together in the sauna to create an authentic Finnish experience.
For the last couple years I have learned to appreciate also the Finnish winter even though it is dark and cold. Most excited I am to see the snow and ice when I return to Finland and go spend a day in a sauna by the sea and enjoy swimming in ice water.
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