Where: All of Sweden
When: All seasons
What: Fika
Alright, let's talk about fika here. Not necessarily tied to outdoor life, but at the same time, VERY much connected to Swedish outdoor life.
WHAT IS FIKA?
Fika is the Swedish tradition of taking a moment to slow down and enjoy the simple pleasures of life: coffee, something sweet, and good company. Some Swedes I know prefer swapping the 'something sweet' for 'something savory,' so you're free to interpret the concept broadly. However, coffee with a kanelbulle (or cinnamon bun) is most Swedes favourite. The cinnamon bun even got its own day at October 4th. They taste best freshly baked, I'll leave a link to the recipe below :-)
FIKA ROOTS DEEPLY IN SWEDISH CULTURE
Fika is truly a big deal here. Fika is deeply ingrained in Swedish culture and society. It's not just about enjoying a cup of coffee and a pastry; it's a way of life. In fact, fika is considered so essential to the Swedish way of living that it's protected by law in some workplaces. Employers are required to provide employees with time for fika breaks, recognizing its importance in promoting productivity, creativity, and overall well-being. This cultural emphasis on taking regular breaks to relax and recharge is a testament to Sweden's commitment to work-life balance and quality of life. By the way, people are using the word 'fika' as a verb here too, like; Hej, let's fika! The concept can be applied to all sorts of social situations, from catching up with a friend to going on a date.
HOW IS FIKA CONNECTED TO OUTDOOR LIFE?
Well, immensely. I've never gone into nature with a Swede without a thermos of coffee magically appearing from a bag or basket, followed by something delicious. Whether it's picking berries, exploring a nature reserve, kick sledding, heading into the woods with the dog, or picking mushrooms... about halfway through the activity, it's time for a cosy coffee break, and that tastes so good when surrounded by nature.
SLOWING DOWN
Thinking about it now, I reckon that 'slowing down for a moment, and enjoy' might be the most important part of the concept. We've embraced this culture quickly. Our fikas often happen in spots with amazing views. It's so easy to just keep rushing ahead. Even during a hike. That's precisely why it's actually quite beautiful to take a breather and truly be in the moment. Soak in your surroundings and share that experience with your hiking buddy.
ADAPTING TO CHANGING TIMES AND PREFERENCES
While fika is often associated with coffee and pastries, its versatility extends far beyond these traditional treats. In recent years, there has been a growing trend towards incorporating healthier options into the fika experience, reflecting evolving dietary preferences and lifestyles. From wholesome vegan oatmeal cookies and fruit smoothies to nutrient-packed salads and artisanal breads, modern fika menus offer a diverse array of choices to cater to different tastes and dietary needs.
This culinary innovation not only enhances the fika experience but also underscores its adaptability to changing times and preferences. Whether you're indulging in a decadent slice of cake or savoring a fresh salad, the essence of fika remains the same – a moment of pause and connection amidst the hustle and bustle of daily life.
HELPFUL LINKS:
Cinnamon bun recipe:
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