We are often asked about the secrets of Finnish happiness. This week, we explored this topic with a Californian journalist curious about the core pillars of happiness among Finnish women.
Finnish women are renowned for their resilience and deep connection to nature. In a culture where the welfare state, gender equality, and a profound bond with natural forces set the foundation for happiness, how do these elements shape their lives? And what can we learn from their experiences?
Nature and its impact on well-being
Nature is an integral part of Finnish culture and women’s daily lives. Forests, lakes, and tranquil landscapes offer a place to relax, recover, and recharge. Researcher Elisabet Lahti describes Finnish women’s unique strength as deeply rooted in their connection to nature:
“Nature brings us back to the cycle of life, where everything renews itself. Finnish women’s inner strength and resilience are embodied in nature – we are berry-pickers, forest wanderers, and ice-swimming powerhouses.”
Nature is not merely an escape from daily stress; it serves as therapy, a source of creativity, and inspiration. Activities like forest walks, sauna sessions, and ice swimming are part of many Finnish women’s daily wellness routines. Nature’s cycles offer comfort and a reminder of life’s constant renewal – even in adversity, new beginnings are always possible.
Seasonal changes are also deeply ingrained in Finnish identity, influencing women’s lives significantly. While the dark winter can be challenging, the bright summer nights bring energy and inspiration. Finnish women excel at adapting to the rhythm of the seasons, finding joy in every part of the year.
Societal support and equality
The Finnish welfare state provides a solid foundation for women’s quality of life and happiness. Free education, parental leave, and comprehensive healthcare enable women to pursue their dreams without significant financial barriers. Gender equality has advanced substantially in Finland, with women actively participating in both the workforce and societal decision-making.
Advisor Marika Savukoski, Director of Education in Kuopio, emphasizes the importance of life circumstances—work, income, quality of life, family, and relationships—for happiness:
“As a leader, I prioritize recognizing these factors and finding ways to support employees both in work and life overall.”
In Finland, equality is not just a topic for speeches but a daily reality, providing women with opportunities for independence and well-being. These achievements reflect Finnish women’s overall satisfaction with life.
Work-life balance
Work-life researcher Jari Hakanen highlights that women often report higher levels of stress and burnout than men but also experience greater positive well-being at work. This phenomenon, called work engagement, is described as “a positive, energizing, and motivating relationship with one’s work, almost like a ‘positive symptom.’”
Finnish society supports women in balancing work and family life with flexible parental leave and remote work opportunities. As a result, women can actively engage in professional life while caring for their families and prioritizing their own well-being.
Sauna culture and wellness
For Finns, the sauna is a sacred space for relaxation and stress relief. Its warmth, silence, and focus on the present moment create a unique environment for recovery. Sauna sessions are often paired with other wellness practices like spending time in nature or ice swimming, making it a holistic experience.
The sauna culture is an intriguing and exotic topic for international audiences. Finnish women’s way of incorporating sauna into their daily lives illustrates their ability to blend tradition with modern well-being.
Sustainable lifestyle
Finnish women value simplicity and eco-friendly choices. Responsibility and sustainability are integral to daily life, with many actively participating in combating climate change through recycling and supporting local production.
Community and relationships
Though Finns are often perceived as introverted, close personal relationships are central to happiness. Finnish women value deep and authentic connections that enhance their well-being. Community engagement, whether through neighborhoods or hobby groups, provides opportunities to share experiences and strengthen a sense of belonging.
Finnish women are resilient, nature-connected, and community-oriented individuals whose lifestyles seamlessly combine tradition and modern wellness practices. Their experiences offer valuable lessons on how to live a meaningful and happy life. In Finland, nature, equality, and community form a unique foundation for happiness – a model from which we can all learn.
If you would like to learn more, please do not hesitate to contact us!
