Put Some "Njuta" in Your Life

I think I'm going to live in a Scandinavian country in my next life. Not only does Scandinavia offer universal healthcare and free childcare, they have good concepts that enrich everyday life. Take hygge, for instance, something popularized in the U.S. some years back with a number of books by Meik Wiking and others. The Danes have the right idea in creating coziness with some candles, warm socks, a book, and a cup of coffee or tea, among other things. 

More recently, I've been reading Niki Brantmark's Njuta, which addresses the Swedish concept of enjoyment or delight. Njuta is a very mindful thing, all about savoring and being in the moment, taking pleasure in the little things right before you. For example, if you're hiking in a forest, stop to lean against a tree and take everything in--the sight of the trees and vegetation, the fresh smell of pine needles, the feel of the breeze on your face, the sound of the birds and other animals. Or think of a barbecue--it may taste great at home, but imagine how much better it will taste after that hike in the forest.

Njuta, however, isn't just about enjoying the outdoors, but also the indoors, bringing a little of the outside to the inside. This can be done both at home or even at work. It's why I have a live succulent (which I've nicknamed "Spike") along with a pearly string of "happy lights" at the perch (in the winter, I put out some actual pinecones for atmosphere). It's also why I take short walks outside during my 10-minute breaks; it's something I look forward to doing and something that keeps me completely present (not to mention it's good for health reasons and for increasing productivity at work).

Scandinavians have some good ideas with njuta, hygge, and death cleaning (which isn't as morbid as it sounds). Luckily for the rest of us, they're sharing some of their secrets to the good life through books (a number of which you can access through our library in print and digital formats). Why not put some Scandinavian practices into your own life and make the most of your everyday?

Wishing you good njutning from the perch.