Being more ‘Mys’ will help you cope with these cold winter months
As the cold, wet, and dark months of winter wear on, it’s easy to be drawn into the gloom. But if you think winters are forbidding in the UK, just take a thought for our Scandinavian neighbours who experience the sun for as little as six hours a day and can endure temperatures as low as -30.
Yet despite these brutal conditions, Scandinavians not only survive winter every year, they appear to thrive in their icy corner of the world.
Consistently ranked as the happiest people on earth, just how do Scandis maintain their lust for life during this cold and desolate time? The answer apparently lies in the age-old lifestyle ethos of Mys.
The overarching concept of this popular tradition embraces winter as a season to enjoy rather than dismissed, with Scandinavians believing there is no bad weather, just bad clothing.
Translated as ‘cosiness’, Mys encourages a relaxed pace of life away from the stresses of the outside world. The custom comes to fruition on a Friday night with ‘Fredagsmys’, loosely translated as ‘cosy Friday’, relaxing in front of a roaring log fire, eating deliciously warm food, and enjoying those dark winter evenings tucked up indoors with friends and family.
However do not see Mys as a solo pursuit; socialising plays an important part. Scandis don’t wait out the winter cooped up alone, but instead take part in communal celebrations believing the setting is the perfect excuse for an intimate social gathering important in maintaining good health and happiness.
Clare Wright, Brand Director at Rekorderlig Cider, which champions its Swedish roots, comments: “Scandinavian trends such as Hygge and Lagom came to the forefront last year and 2018 is showing no signs of this slowing down. From placing flowers under pillows to dream about your true love, to Kräftskiva – Sweden’s beloved crayfish parties, shared with friends on warm August evenings – there’s a huge amount to admire about the legendary Scandinavian culture.
“The Swedes understand the importance of being happy, and this lifestyle trend and ethos really takes the Mys out of misery!
“It’s time for us to adopt the Swedish state of mind and start embracing and rejoicing in everything dark and wintery, enjoying a perfect work/life balance to avoid feeling overwhelmed and remember life is for enjoying all year round.”
