Some have said that work-life balance is difficult to achieve in the modern age. After all, we’re always just an email or Facebook notification away when needed. Norwegians, on the other hand, have done well to ensure they take ample time to shut off work and enjoy life. This usually takes the form of trips to the cabin, enjoying nature or simply getting cozy (known as koselig in Norwegian) at home with a nice book and the candles lit.
Norwegians are sure to get plenty of koselig time in their life. As a foreigner in Norway, you’re also entitled to the same time. Your Norwegian friends will expect you to have your personal cozy time and will think it’s strange if you don’t.
A key ingredient to koselig time involves candles. Lots of candles. If you’re moving to Norway for love, be prepared for your partner to have candles everywhere. You’ll be swimming in more wax than a Chapstick factory. It’s that bad.
In Norway, as in many Scandinavian countries, embracing the concept of hygge, or its Norwegian equivalent, koselig, is an integral part of daily life. The word “koselig” encapsulates the idea of creating warmth, coziness, and a sense of well-being. Among the many elements that contribute to koselig, the use of candles plays a significant role. Let’s explore how Norwegians harness the soft, flickering glow of candles to infuse their lives with warmth and comfort.
1. Creating Ambiance
Candles are masters at setting the right mood. The gentle, warm light they emit can transform a room, making it feel instantly cozier and inviting. Whether it’s during long, dark winter nights or bright summer evenings, Norwegians turn to candles to create an ambiance that is calming and comforting.
2. Embracing the Seasons
Norwegians have a deep connection with their seasons. In the winter, when daylight is scarce, candlelight becomes a way to brighten up the indoors. It’s common to see candles placed in windows, on dining tables, or even in the bathroom for a soothing, spa-like experience. During summer, when the days are longer, candles often move outdoors to enhance alfresco dining and late-night gatherings.
3. Socializing and Entertaining
Candles play a pivotal role in social gatherings. Norwegians love to invite friends and family over for informal get-togethers. Lighting candles on dining tables and coffee tables fosters a sense of intimacy and warmth, making it easier for people to relax and enjoy each other’s company.
4. Practicing Everyday Rituals
Koselig is not just reserved for special occasions; it’s woven into everyday life. Lighting a candle while enjoying a morning coffee, taking a bath, or reading a book is a common ritual for Norwegians. These small, everyday moments are elevated by the simple act of igniting a candle, adding a touch of comfort to the ordinary.
5. The Advent of Advent
In the lead-up to Christmas, the Norwegian tradition of Advent is deeply cherished. Lighting an Advent candle each Sunday of December, leading up to Christmas Eve, is a cherished ritual. The gradual illumination of the Advent candles symbolizes the anticipation and joy of the upcoming holiday season.
6. A Love for Natural Scents
Candles in Norway aren’t just about light; they are often infused with natural scents like pine, cinnamon, or sea breeze. These scented candles not only provide a warm glow but also fill the air with fragrances reminiscent of the Norwegian outdoors, reinforcing a connection to nature.
7. Practicing Safety
Safety is paramount when it comes to candle usage. Norwegians are diligent about extinguishing candles before leaving a room or going to bed. This not only ensures safety but also extends the life of the candle, making it last longer.
In Norway, the art of using candles to create koselig moments is a cherished tradition that underscores the significance of warmth, comfort, and togetherness. The soft, natural light of candles transforms spaces and enhances the everyday, turning even the simplest moments into memorable and cherished experiences. So, next time you light a candle, take a page from the Norwegian playbook and let the soft, flickering glow envelop you in a sense of koselig coziness.
Becoming Norwegian
How to become a Norwegian by doing these things.
