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Living a Nordic Life
Welcome to Living A Nordic Life, helping you live a Nordic Life, wherever you are.
From my home in southern Norway I'd love to share my Nordic lifestyle, cooking and surroundings with you, and show you how I have discovered that you don't need to live in Norway to enjoy and embrace a Nordic lifestyle and way of living.
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Creamy Nettles & Mushrooms on Rye Toast
Spring in the perfect time to start eating delicious wild greens and this simple and tasty breakfast or lunch dish will have you coming back for more

Fiona McKinna
3 days ago2 min read


Fermented Dairy - an Historic Nordic Staple
Fermented dairy products are not just culinary staples in Nordic cuisine; they are a celebration of rich flavours, traditions, and health benefits. Imagine starting your day with a bowl of thick skyr or enjoying a refreshing filmjölk smoothie in the afternoon. Intrigued? Let me invite you to join me for an exploration of Nordic fermented dairy, revealing their history, types, and delicious recipes that are sure to excite your palate. The Historical Significance of Fermented D

Fiona McKinna
5 days ago4 min read


Hidden Gem: Car-Free, Cosy Norwegian Island
Escape the bustle of the mainland to this island idyll off the coats of southern Norway. Beautiful serene beaches, pretty Norwegian coastal homes and the peace and quiet of car-free paths await you.

Fiona McKinna
Feb 205 min read


5 Simple Ways to Take Your Healthy Nordic Habits with You
Nordic living does not belong only to forests ad fjords. It can travel with you. Discover 5 simple ways to carry healthy Nordic habits into everyday life - from nourishing seasonal food and daily time outdoors to simpler rhythm and small, steady pleasures. A gentle guide to creating calm, balance and intentional living wherever you are.

Fiona McKinna
Feb 164 min read


Seasonal Nordic Ingredients to Celebrate in February
February in the Nordics marks the true heart of winter, when snow blankets the land and daylight is scarce. Nordic winter food traditions shine during this season, relying on preserved foods, root vegetables, hardy greens, and cured proteins. From Viking times to today, seasonal Nordic cuisine has supported sustainable, mindful eating. Embracing these simple, natural ingredients connects us to tradition while reducing reliance on ultra-processed food and celebrating authentic

Fiona McKinna
Feb 115 min read


Chasing the Northern Lights in February
Experience the magic of the Northern Lights in February across the Nordics. Discover the best locations in Norway, Sweden, Finland, and Iceland, plus tips for aurora hunting, winter photography, and staying warm. Combine breathtaking Arctic skies with Nordic winter adventures like dog sledding, snowshoeing, and Sámi cultural experiences for an unforgettable February escape

Fiona McKinna
Feb 84 min read


Sami National Day: The History and How to Prepare
Celebrate Sámi National Day on February 6th and explore the rich history, culture, and traditions of the Indigenous Sámi people. Learn about the first Sámi congress, traditional clothing, music, and food, and discover how to prepare respectfully for events across Norway, Sweden, Finland, and beyond. Honor Sámi heritage and experience the resilience and vibrant culture of Europe’s oldest Indigenous community.

Fiona McKinna
Feb 65 min read


Authentic Sami Winter Menu to Celebrate Sami Day
Discover authentic Sámi winter cuisine perfect for the winter. From reindeer stew and traditional Gáhkku flatbread to hearty root vegetable soups and cloudberry cream dessert, explore recipes that warm the body and celebrate Sámi culture. Learn how to prepare a full Sámi-inspired winter meal using traditional ingredients, flavors, and cooking techniques rooted in Nordic heritage.

Fiona McKinna
Feb 24 min read


Velkommen februar, Welcome February
The winter is not over yet, but let's make the most of the cosy season.

Fiona McKinna
Feb 12 min read


Gáhkku, Traditional Sami Flatbread
Gahkku is a delicious and traditional Sami bread flavoured with anis. It's perfect served with dishes like bidos (reindeer stew) or simply with a slice of brunost (Norwegian brown cheese)

Fiona McKinna
Jan 282 min read


Lighting the Winter. Embracing Candles, Lanterns and Cosy Corners
Embrace the Nordic way of lighting the winter with candles, lanterns, and cozy corners. Discover how Scandinavians transform long, dark nights into warm, inviting spaces using soft lighting, mindful rituals, and simple decor. Learn tips for creating hygge-inspired corners, layering light, and bringing seasonal warmth into your home. Perfect for intentional living and enjoying the magic of winter in comfort and style.

Fiona McKinna
Jan 253 min read


Nordic Winter Outdoor Habits to Improve Wellbeing
Boost your wellbeing this winter with Nordic outdoor habits. From friluftsliv and forest walks to cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and sauna rituals, discover how Nordic practices help reduce stress, improve mood, and strengthen the body. Embrace winter like the Nordics and transform the cold months into a season of vitality, calm, and connection with nature

Fiona McKinna
Jan 234 min read


Nordic Winter Rituals to Slow Down and Recharge
Discover Nordic winter rituals to slow down and recharge this January. From mindful mornings and cozy hygge spaces to forest walks, seasonal cooking, and calming candlelight, these simple habits help you embrace intentional living, reduce stress, and find warmth during the long, dark Nordic nights. Learn how to bring the peaceful, restorative rhythms of Nordic winters into your everyday life.

Fiona McKinna
Jan 194 min read


Pytt i Panna, Traditional Swedish Hash
Pytt i panna is the kind of meal that feels like home — humble, warming and quietly generous. Born from leftovers and simple habits, this Swedish hash of crisp potatoes, soft onions and savoury meat turns an ordinary pan into something deeply comforting. In this recipe, pytt i panna becomes a small ritual: listening to the sizzle, waiting for golden edges, finishing with a fried egg or pickled beetroot. It’s food for unhurried evenings when you want something honest, nourishi

Fiona McKinna
Jan 142 min read


The Best Places to Visit in the Nordics in January
Discover the best places to visit in the Nordics in January—from Norway’s aurora-filled skies to Iceland’s icy landscapes and Finland’s peaceful Lapland forests. Explore cozy winter cities, dramatic Arctic scenery, and authentic Nordic culture at its most magical. Your guide to unforgettable Nordic winter travel starts here

Fiona McKinna
Jan 114 min read


Starting the New Year with Nordic Sustainability
Start the new year with Nordic-style sustainability by embracing minimalism, mindful consumption, and slow living. Discover practical tips for eco-friendly home practices, seasonal routines, sustainable travel, and intentional goal-setting. Learn how simple, thoughtful habits inspired by Scandinavian culture can reduce waste, support the environment, and bring balance and purpose to your daily life.

Fiona McKinna
Jan 94 min read


Nordic Hygge; Making the Long Nights Cosy
There’s a certain beauty to winter if we let it arrive at its own pace. Nordic hygge encourages us to soften the edges of January—filling our homes with candlelight, warmth, and simple rituals that bring comfort. Whether it’s a quiet evening with a book, a shared pot of tea, or a moment of mindful stillness, hygge reminds us that contentment often lives in the smallest, most ordinary moments.

Fiona McKinna
Jan 53 min read


Velkommen 2026! Welcome 2026!
Let's start the new year with some Nordic positivity and look forward to the beauty that January has to offer us. It's also a great time to plan ahead a little with gardening and take some moments to cook cosy comfort food.

Fiona McKinna
Jan 1, 20262 min read


Epiphany Traditions in the Nordics: Celebrating Twelve Night and Winter Rituals
Discover how Nordic Epiphany traditions blend ancient folklore with cosy winter rituals. From star-singing processions in Sweden to Norway’s candlelit blessings and Finland’s icy dips for renewal, these customs celebrate light, community, and hope. Explore the cultural roots that make Epiphany a uniquely meaningful winter celebration across the North.

Fiona McKinna
Dec 28, 20254 min read


How to Have a Hygge Romjul (Just Like We Do in Norway)
Romjul is the time between Christmas and New Year and in Norway it has a special place. It's cherished and celebrated in simple and intentional ways.

Fiona McKinna
Dec 26, 20254 min read
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