friluftsliv

We don’t seem to mind borrowing the odd Scandinavian word, even if it does present some difficulties.  Remember hygge for the feeling of comfort you derive as you sip mulled wine beside an open fire.  Cosiness. Hygge is a Danish word whereas this one is Norwegian.  Break it into its parts for pronunciation — [free-loofts-liv.]  Literally it means ‘open air life’.  It is more than just outdoor recreation. It is the concept of outdoor activity providing health and happiness.  Did we need to borrow a Norwegian word for this?  I suppose that although we have talked of late about the mental health benefits of even a stroll in the park let alone a burst of mountain climbing, we don’t really have a word for that. All our words for experiencing the great outdoors are very practical and no-nonsense.  So let’s give ourselves a dose of friluftsliv and follow it up with a bit of hygge.