logo
Embrace the chill: Scandinavian secrets to joyful winters for South Africans

Embrace the chill: Scandinavian secrets to joyful winters for South Africans

IOL News01-07-2025
As winter grips South Africa, discover how those in some of the world's coldest places thrive amid the chill with masterful strategies and a joyful mindset.
Image: Instagram.
As winter takes hold in South Africa, many of us find ourselves dreaming of warmer days.
However, for those living in some of the coldest cities in the world, such as Finland, Greenland, and Iceland, bitter temperatures can drop to a staggering -20°C.
Yet, these winter warriors seem to thrive, using practical strategies and a positive mindset to combat the chill.
Perhaps we in South Africa could learn a thing or two from their approach to winter.
In Scandinavia, the summer months offer long days filled with sunshine, where the sun dips below the horizon as late as midnight in the northern realms of Sweden and Norway, a phenomenon captivatingly dubbed the "Midnight Sun".
Contrarily, the winter months can be harsh, shrouding certain areas in near darkness, with only about 6 precious hours of daylight.
But beneath that frosty exterior lies a community that has mastered the art of winter living.
Here's how:
Creating a cosy sanctuary
One of the hallmarks of Scandinavian life is the concept of 'hygge', a Danish term that embodies a sense of comfort, warmth and togetherness.
Homes are transformed into sanctuaries adorned with candles, warm drinks and woolen blankets. It's also common to find saunas in many households.
Locals at an outdoor pool which is kept at a warm 94 degrees all winter long.
Image: Instagram.
These cosy indoor spaces offer relief from the cold.
Embracing the chill
Scandinavians are also known for their enthusiasm for outdoor activities, turning the bitter cold into an opportunity for adventure.
Skiing and sledding become not just leisure activities but integral parts of life in the snowy months.
Mastering the art of layering
Layering is the name of the game. Scandinavian residents often rely on high-quality wool, thermal wear and essential accessories such as hats, scarves and gloves, to shield themselves from the frigid elements.
This deliberate approach to dressing ensures warmth and also encourages mobility and comfort.
Hygge, a Danish quality of 'coziness and comfortable conviviality,' is making inroads with an international audience.
Image: Instagram.
A positive mindset
But perhaps the most powerful weapon against the cold is the Scandinavian attitude itself.
By accepting winter as a natural part of life and shifting their focus to enjoying it, they cultivate resilience and a sense of belonging.
Instead of complaining the cold, they find joy in the excitement of sledding down a hill, the warmth of a steaming cup of cocoa, or the enchanting beauty of the Northern Lights illuminating the darkened sky.
As the winter chill descends upon South Africa, perhaps it's time to take a few pages from the Scandinavian playbook.
By embracing the cold with open arms, crafting warm and inviting indoor spaces, donning the right layers, and considering outdoor activities as joyful moments rather than tiring tasks, we can all find warmth and happiness in even the chilliest of seasons.
Orange background

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Comments

No comments yet...

Related Articles

From booze to buff: how Anatii's sobriety and fitness journey redefined his life
From booze to buff: how Anatii's sobriety and fitness journey redefined his life

IOL News

time16 hours ago

  • IOL News

From booze to buff: how Anatii's sobriety and fitness journey redefined his life

Award-winning musician and producer Anatii shares his inspiring journey to sobriety. Image: Instagram Grammy-award-winning artist and producer Anatii has revealed a deeply personal chapter of his life that is marked by discipline, transformation and self-discovery. Known for his contributions to the local hip hop scene and thought-provoking lyricism, the 'Sey'hlangene' hitmaker recently gave fans a rare glimpse into a deeply personal chapter of his life and his journey to sobriety. Marking one year, nine months, and thirteen days free from alcohol, Anatii quietly shared the milestone on his Instagram. The artist acknowledged the milestone with a post that featured moments of his days. Anatii's journey to sobriety is just one part of his bigger commitment to improving himself. In January 2025, the multi-award-winning artist revealed his impressive weight loss, where he lost over 50 kilograms. He gave credit to his health-focused lifestyle and the guidance of life coach Jeremy Blasco for helping him navigate the journey. 'I've been locked in working on myself holistically, and it feels amazing to see the results on my continued health journey. 'Losing 53kg in one year is no easy feat but I've unlocked a whole new level of mental fortitude and with the help of my amazing coach Jeremy Blasco who has dedicated so much time to making sure I train at least six times a week and making sure my nutrition is next level fully natural, gratitude on the highest,' he said. He was also candid about the uphill battle, revealing that he struggled with weight gain throughout his life. 'Having struggled with weight gain and fluctuations most of my life, it feels good to finally be in control, ultimate control over my health, desires and the ability to manifest on the highest. If you ever feel like giving up, remember that it's not worth it. You can do it too!' However, his evolution has not been limited to his personal life. Professionally, the rapper has also been exploring new territory. Known primarily for his work in hip hop and production collaborations with the likes of AKA and other local rappers, the artist made a bold shift in 2024. He made a musical return and took his fans on a different journey with the release of his album 'BOOM SZN', which is rooted in the vibrant sounds of Amapiano. In an interview with "IOL", he revealed that he wanted to give his supporters 'shock value' as the sound was something they did not expect from him. 'You know, I think what I've appreciated the most is that, with 'BOOM SZN', I've been able to give people shock value. From the sound, the features, the production choices, and the blending of genres,' he said. 'Not so much switching from hip-hop to Amapiano, but rather infusing hip-hop with amapiano, R&B with amapiano, and Afrobeat with amapiano,' he added.

Man walks barefoot for five years, sparks TikTok buzz
Man walks barefoot for five years, sparks TikTok buzz

The South African

time18 hours ago

  • The South African

Man walks barefoot for five years, sparks TikTok buzz

Viral videos never seem to dry up on the World Wide Web. Isn't it wild how there's always something bizarre or hilarious making the rounds? From people surfing shopping trolleys on highways to cringeworthy challenge fails, the Internet never stops surprising us. The latest viral sensation has grabbed the attention of millions, racking up likes and shares all over social media. ADVERTISEMENT Today's Eish Wena segment features a man who has been walking barefoot for five years as he shares his experience. Watch the video below WATCH MORE VIDEOS FROM THE SOUTH AFRICAN Need your news quickly? Visit The South African website for all you need to know. Enjoy a wide variety of videos from news, lifestyle, travel, sports, viral videos and lots more! There is always something to watch here! ADVERTISEMENT Why not follow us on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok while you're at it? Get ALL the news you need to know on the go at your convenience! SHARE YOUR VIRAL VIDEOS WITH US Submit your videos for a chance to be featured in the daily Viral Video article and get your name mentioned. Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1 Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.

From drip to dazzle: Thembinkosi Lorch's fashion game is a goal
From drip to dazzle: Thembinkosi Lorch's fashion game is a goal

IOL News

timea day ago

  • IOL News

From drip to dazzle: Thembinkosi Lorch's fashion game is a goal

Thembinkosi Lorch has mastered the art of blending high fashion with everyday cool. Image: Thembinkosi Lorch Instagram Move over, Cristiano Ronaldo and step aside, David Beckham - there's a new style king in town, and he goes by the name of Thembinkosi Lorch. Whether you know him as 'Nyoso' or simply as one of South Africa's most talented footballers, one thing is certain: Lorch is claiming his spot on the global fashion stage, one fit at a time. If you're among his hundreds of thousands of followers on Instagram, you already know what time it is - Lorch isn't just serving skills on the field, he's serving serious looks off it. As we say in isiZulu, 'uyawudla ukotini' (loosely translated as 'this person can dress'). Trendy and dapper, these two words sum up Lorch's off-field image. Since his move to Morocco to join Wydad Athletic Club (on loan from Mamelodi Sundowns), the footballer has not missed a beat when it comes to maintaining - or even elevating - his fashion game. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Ad loading Lorch has mastered the art of blending high fashion with everyday cool. He has a knack for making luxury fashion feel accessible and aspirational. His fashion choices are never boring - bold prints, designer sneakers and playful accessories are staples in his wardrobe. His signature look often includes standout pieces like chunky chains, statement watches and trendy bucket hats. But it's not just what he wears - it's how he wears it. There's a confidence, a swagger, that's uniquely Lorch. His streetwear is elevated by immaculate attention to detail. Whether he's wearing a simple white tee or a fully branded Gucci set, Lorch always adds that final touch - whether it's a limited-edition sneaker or an unexpected pop of colour - to tie the look together. One viral moment that had fashion lovers talking was when he posted a snap of himself wearing the Gucci Supreme Ace Mickey Mouse sneakers, a beige pair that retails for around $720 (R10 700). The sneakers were part of Gucci's Lunar New Year capsule collection, celebrating the Year of the Rat - a stylish nod to Mickey and Minnie Mouse. But that's not where the Gucci obsession ends. Scroll through his timeline and you'll spot a growing collection: from hats and tees to belts, bags and classic kicks. One of the most refreshing things about Lorch's fashion is his versatility. He doesn't confine himself to a single look. One day it's tailored formalwear, the next, it's ripped jeans, sneakers and bucket hats. His evolving style has not only won him fans across Africa but is also setting new standards for how athletes can express themselves off the pitch. Inspired? Here are five ways to style luxury wear the street way - Lorch style: Pair a designer shirt or jacket with plain jeans and classy sneakers for a balanced street-luxury look. Let your kicks do the talking. Invest in one bold, branded sneaker and build your outfit around it. Add chains, watches, bucket hats or branded caps to your wardrobe to elevate even the most basic outfit. Details make the difference. Lorch often rocks neutral tones with a single standout accessory. Try an all-black outfit with a bright bag or hat to channel that effortless cool. Don't shy away from eye-catching prints. Match them with solid neutrals or clash them boldly. Luxury fashion today is all about fearlessness.

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into a world of global content with local flavor? Download Daily8 app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store