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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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The Nordic Love of Wool
The love of wool in Norway is seeing no signs of ever waning. Wol is warm, versatile and reliable and keeps you warm in the coldest climes

Fiona McKinna
2 days ago3 min read


10 Nordic Secrets That Transformed My Life
When I moved to Norway I had no idea that simple Nordic habits would change my life forever. These are the 10 ways my life has changed

Fiona McKinna
Sep 75 min read


The Ancient Nordic Art of Food Preservation
Food preservation in the Nordic countries is an ancient craft shaped by long winters and fleeting summers. From wind-dried fish and smoked meats to fermented vegetables and jars of summer berries, every method was built on patience and necessity. Today, these traditions still linger in kitchens across the region, not out of survival, but as a quiet connection to seasons, time, and a slower way of living with nature.

Fiona McKinna
Sep 44 min read


How to Make Your Next Camping Trip a Little More Hygge
Hygge is something we can bring with us everywhere we go, even on camping trips. I have some tips to make your next trip extra cosy

Fiona McKinna
Aug 235 min read


Why Do Scandinavians Love Liquorice So Much?
Liqourice is one of those flavours that you will find everywhere in Scandinavia, but you might be surprised to find it in more than candy

Fiona McKinna
Aug 173 min read


Let's Holiday Like We're Norwegian!
Many Norwegians happily spend the holiday in their own country. There are lots of things to learn from this and we can do exactly the same ourselves with a few tips to get started.

Fiona McKinna
Aug 94 min read


The Great Berry Season Has Begun
The great berry season has begun across the Nordic countries. From wild blueberries hidden beneath forest canopies to sun-warmed raspberries along country lanes, July brings one of Scandinavia's most cherished summer traditions. More than simply gathering food, berry picking is a chance to slow down, connect with nature, and experience the simple pleasures of Nordic living. Discover why berry season remains such a treasured part of summer life.

Fiona McKinna
Jul 203 min read


The Old Coastal Life - Living With The Sea, not Against It
The old Nordic coastal life still lingers in quiet places where the sea sets the rhythm of everything. Fishing villages, weather-worn harbours, and drifting boats speak of a time when people lived in close conversation with wind and tide. It is a way of life shaped by patience, observation, and respect — where nothing is rushed, and the sea still feels like it quietly decides the day.

Fiona McKinna
Jul 123 min read


The Ancient Celebration of Botolvsmesse
17 June marks the ancient celebration of St Botolph. Although he may not be that well known his legacy lives on and for those of us following Nordic traditions it's a day worth remembering.

Fiona McKinna
Jun 152 min read


After the Flags and Brass Bands
The morning after 17 May, Norway feels softer somehow. The brass bands are gone, the bunads hang airing by open windows, and the country moves more slowly under pale spring skies. Coffee replaces champagne. Children fall asleep clutching tiny flags. After months of darkness and one explosive day of celebration, 18 May arrives like an exhale — quiet, reflective, and deeply Nordic in a way outsiders rarely notice.

Fiona McKinna
May 154 min read


Velkommen mai, Welcome May
Welcome to the beautiful month of May in the Nordics when we begin to forget about the harsh winter and look forward to endless summer days

Fiona McKinna
May 12 min read


Ut på tur, Getting Outside on Sundays
Getting outside once a week is a wonderful Nordic habit to adopt and you will be in good company - most of Norway is "ut på tur" too

Fiona McKinna
Apr 265 min read


The Biggest Lessons Norway has Taught Me
My time living in Norway has taught me some important lessons that have changed my life and I will carry with me wherever I live.

Fiona McKinna
Mar 203 min read


Velkommen mars, Welcome March
March arrives in the Nordics like a whirlwind. But this year is warm and sunny and offers the promise of an early spring. Let's look ahead at what to expect this month in the Nordics

Fiona McKinna
Mar 12 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


Dressing for the Winter - A New Find From Lighthouse Clothing!
Finding a new and stylish winter coat that will cope with the demands of a Nordic winter is no mean feat, but we have done it! These coats from Lighthouse Clothing are our new favourite winter outerwear. We love them and I know you will too

Fiona McKinna
Nov 28, 20254 min read


Nordic Simplicity: Slowing Down Before the Holiday Rush
As November settles in, the Nordic world slows to a gentle rhythm. The bright days of autumn fade, and the darkness invites us to pause before the holiday rush begins. This quiet month is a chance to rest, prepare our homes, and find beauty in simplicity. By slowing down and embracing the stillness, we arrive at December calm, grounded, and ready to welcome the light once more.

Fiona McKinna
Nov 14, 20254 min read


Simple or Free Fun Autumn Activities
The simplest pleasures are often the best and autumn is a time to make the most of some activities that are simple or free (or both!)

Fiona McKinna
Oct 20, 20255 min read


Nordic Folklore for Each Season, A time for Firelight and Storytelling
Folklore is part of life in the Nordics. Trolls, huldra and other spirits live among us humans and shape the way we see the world. Maybe it's a little bit of fantasy, but it brings magic to each and every day.

Fiona McKinna
Oct 6, 20255 min read


Lingonberries in Scandinavia: Nature’s Wild Treasure of the Nordic Forests
Discover the magic of lingonberries in Scandinavia’s forests. These tart red berries thrive under pine and birch trees, ripening in late summer when foragers gather them for jams, juices, and traditional Nordic dishes. Packed with antioxidants and rich cultural history, lingonberries are more than a superfood—they’re a taste of the Nordic wilderness.

Fiona McKinna
Oct 3, 20255 min read
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