Friluftsliv: Open-Air Life
It doesn’t take one long to realize how greatly valued time spent outdoors is in Norway. Friluftsliv, open-air life, articulates the strong cultural connection to nature and the desire to spend time outside. No matter where I roam, I can always expect to encounter a runner or parent pushing a pram.
My teaching schedule was light this week, so I took advantage of the extra time and beautiful weather to explore some new neighborhoods and trails. I made the 4.5-mile journey to Frognerseteren café to try some rømmegrøt, a sour cream-based porridge topped with cinnamon, sugar, and raisins that is served with a glass of raspberry juice. Google maps said the hike there was only three miles, but the trek was much longer. During these adventures, I put my trust in Google’s walking routes and usually experience a brief moment of worry or concern on these remote trails. However, it never takes long to encounter another human. Throughout the entire journey up the steep hill to the cafe, I met or passed casual walkers and joggers regularly.
At the café on the top of the hill, I savored the rich pudding outside on the open-air patio. People were quietly chatting and slowly eating their afternoon pastries and sipping their coffees. Not one table group had opened their sun umbrella, all faces were positioned to absorb the sun’s rays.
Rømmegrøt served at the Frognerseteren Kafe in Oslo.
Back in the city, I passed children playing on the soccer pitch, kids exploring playground equipment, babies in strollers, and people of all ages walking, jogging, or biking. No matter where or what time of the day, people are outside enjoying the many activities afforded them here. I especially love seeing toddlers walk alongside their strollers while their parents slowly inch forward…
Rain doesn’t discourage people from heading outside; folks stroll along with umbrellas and kids are suited up in raincoats and pants. A heavy downpour won’t deter bikers either, many with kids in the seat behind them or covered in the bin in front. I am simply fascinated by all the bike seats, pull-behind carts, and bins in the front for children and cargo!
Even when you can’t go outside, buildings are constructed to bring nature inside. Large windows welcome in the sunlight and neutral colors and natural elements such as stone and wood create a connectedness to nature even when one is indoors. If a meeting lasts for more than an hour, windows are opened, and the cool fresh air enters the workspace quotidianly.
I haven’t yet seen how people respond to the colder temps and snow, but being from Minnesota, I image that those factors invite people outside to experience the activities that only winter can provide. Already, I’m seeing blankets draped over chairs at outdoor cafes. There’s a lot of talk of skiing already and I was fortunate to find a cross-country ski set for 600 kroner (about $60)! I must admit that I am loving the open-air life, friluftsliv, of Norway!
