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

IOL News

01-07-2025

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.