Self care is more than a few fluffy blankets, an indulgent lunch or an hour in a bubble bath.  It's a deep, sustainable and grown up commitment to our own mental and physical wellbeing.  But how does that look and can we even achieve it?

For more Nordic living, visit the Living a Nordic Life www.livinganordiclife.com
or join us in the Living a Nordic Life Facebook group www.facebook.com/groups/livinganordiclife

From London to the Mountains of Norway: Ben Ward swapped London life for a remote farm in the Norwegian mountains, and it hasn’t always been easy. In this episode, he opens up about the highs, lows, and unexpected challenges of living in such a remote place, the fame that followed his TV documentary, and the stories behind his life. Funny, honest, and full of adventure, Ben’s journey proves that chasing a simpler life is never quite as simple as it seems. 

You can find Ben here:

www.krokengard.no

Instagram

Facebook

Ben's new book - www.ark.no/kroken

NRK TV documentary - Der ingen skulle tru at nokon kunne bu - NRK TV

For more Nordic living, visit the Living a Nordic Life www.livinganordiclife.com
or join us in the Living a Nordic Life Facebook group www.facebook.com/groups/livinganordiclife

In this episode of Living a Nordic Life, we dive into the Norwegian word friluftsliv — “open-air living” — and how it shapes everyday life in the Nordics. More than just spending time outside, friluftsliv is a philosophy, a way of weaving the natural world into the rhythm of daily living.

I’ll share how discovering this single word shifted my perspective, teaching me to seek out fresh air and quiet moments no matter the season. From walks in the woods to simple pauses under the sky, friluftsliv became less about activity and more about presence, grounding, and joy.

NEW BOOK now available - 

UK - https://amzn.eu/d/dGEJ8OW

US - Friluftsliv: How to love the outdoors like you're Nordic: McKinna, Fiona: 9798858660064: Amazon.com: Books

For more Nordic living, visit the Living a Nordic Life www.livinganordiclife.com
or join us in the Living a Nordic Life Facebook group www.facebook.com/groups/livinganordiclife

Join me, Fiona of Living a Nordic Life, as I share my simple and seasonal morning routine in my little corner of southern Norway.  No 5am runs or fresh yaks milk here!!!

For more Nordic living, visit the Living a Nordic Life www.livinganordiclife.com
or join us in the Living a Nordic Life Facebook group www.facebook.com/groups/livinganordiclife

In this episode of Living a Nordic Life, we wander into the quiet beauty of the Nordic outdoors — not with skis or hiking poles, but with a slower, gentler pace. Discover how Nordic culture embraces the art of simply being outside: sitting on a bench with a cup of coffee, watching the shifting skies, or savoring the scent of pine and sea air.

We’ll explore why “doing less” in nature can actually bring us more — more calm, more presence, and more connection to the world around us. Whether it’s lingering by the water’s edge or enjoying the long light of a summer evening, this is a reminder that the simplest moments often become the most meaningful.

NEW BOOK now available on Amazon - 
UK - Friluftsliv: How to love the outdoors like you're Nordic: Amazon.co.uk: McKinna, Fiona: 9798858660064: Books
USA - Friluftsliv: How to love the outdoors like you're Nordic: McKinna, Fiona: 9798858660064: Amazon.com: Books

For more Nordic living, visit the Living a Nordic Life www.livinganordiclife.com
or join us in the Living a Nordic Life Facebook group www.facebook.com/groups/livinganordiclife

Step into the Nordic forest with me as we explore the story of lingonberries—Scandinavia’s tart red superberry. From ancient traditions and foraging tales to modern recipes and health benefits, this episode uncovers how lingonberries connect culture, nature, and flavour across the Nordic countries. 

NEW BOOK now available - 

UK - Friluftsliv: How to love the outdoors like you're Nordic: Amazon.co.uk: McKinna, Fiona: 9798858660064: Books

US - Friluftsliv: How to love the outdoors like you're Nordic: McKinna, Fiona: 9798858660064: Amazon.com: Books

For more Nordic living, visit the Living a Nordic Life www.livinganordiclife.com
or join us in the Living a Nordic Life Facebook group www.facebook.com/groups/livinganordiclife

In this episode of Living a Nordic Life, we explore one of the most beloved Nordic sayings: “There’s no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing.” From rain-soaked autumn days to icy winter mornings, the Nordic approach to the outdoors is simple — nature is not something to avoid, but something to embrace.

We’ll talk about how this mindset transforms everyday life, why going outside in all seasons matters so deeply here, and how you can bring a little of that resilient, joyful outdoor spirit into your own routine — no matter where you live.

NEW BOOK now available -

UK - Friluftsliv: How to love the outdoors like you're Nordic: Amazon.co.uk: McKinna, Fiona: 9798858660064: Books

US - Friluftsliv: How to love the outdoors like you're Nordic: McKinna, Fiona: 9798858660064: Amazon.com: Books

For more Nordic living, visit the Living a Nordic Life www.livinganordiclife.com
or join us in the Living a Nordic Life Facebook group www.facebook.com/groups/livinganordiclife

Life can be pretty hectic whether we like it or not, but taking back some control can be simple and easy.  One of the ways we can be better organised and make life simpler is with some weekly menu planning.  It doesn't have to be boring with these easy-to-implement tips you can take the stress out of preparing meals and stop wondering "what's for dinner".

Get your Living a Nordic Life weekly menu planner here - https://workdrive.zoho.eu/file/9zsjodd0a506767bd425f9df39c4cc804ec3c

For more Nordic living, visit the Living a Nordic Life www.livinganordiclife.com
or join us in the Living a Nordic Life Facebook group www.facebook.com/groups/livinganordiclife

The middle of August is the start of the new school year in Norway.  It's a time of excitement and a few nerves, but before school starts we have to get some supplies in.  Join me in this episode as I discuss what my three children need for school.

Hilsen fra Fiona

For more Nordic living, visit the Living a Nordic Life www.livinganordiclife.com
or join us in the Living a Nordic Life Facebook group www.facebook.com/groups/livinganordiclife

All throughout the whole of Norway in April, May and June you will people celebrating in a very traditional way.  It's all part of the "konfirmasjon" or confirmation, an ancient rite of passage for 15 year olds.

For more Nordic living, visit the Living a Nordic Life www.livinganordiclife.com
or join us in the Living a Nordic Life Facebook group www.facebook.com/groups/livinganordiclife