Advertise on podcast: Living a Nordic Life with Fiona McKinna

Every year on 6 February, the Sámi people, the Indigenous inhabitants of northern Norway, Sweden, Finland, and Russia, celebrate Sámi National Day. It’s a powerful day of culture, identity, and resilience—honouring one of Europe’s oldest Indigenous communities. The date marks the first Sámi congress in 1917, when Sámi leaders came together to fight for land rights, language preservation, and cultural recognition. Today, the celebration includes flag-raising, traditional joik music, gákti clothing, parades, and Sámi food, from hearty reindeer stew to smoked meats and berries. In this episode, we explore the history of Sámi National Day, what the symbols really mean, and how to celebrate respectfully—whether you’re in the Nordics or learning from afar. If you’re curious about Indigenous cultures, Nordic history, or Sámi traditions, this is a story worth hearing. For more Nordic living, visit the Living a Nordic Life www.livinganordiclife.com or join us in the Living a Nordic Life Facebook group www.facebook.com/groups/livinganordiclife

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. For more Nordic living, visit the Living a Nordic Life www.livinganordiclife.com or join us in the Living a Nordic Life Facebook group www.facebook.com/groups/livinganordiclife

 Step into the deep midwinter of the Old Norse world and discover what January meant to the Vikings. In this episode, we explore Yule’s lingering echoes, seasonal rituals, blóts, and the quiet endurance of winter. Learn how Norse families kept culture alive through storytelling, work, and community, and how gods like Odin, Thor, and Freyr shaped life during the coldest months. A reflective journey through Viking winter traditions, Norse mythology, and the Old Norse calendar, perfect for history lovers and mythology enthusiasts.  For more Nordic living, visit the Living a Nordic Life www.livinganordiclife.com or join us in the Living a Nordic Life Facebook group www.facebook.com/groups/livinganordiclife

Romjul is that time between Christmas and New Year that might feel a little bit of a non-event.  Here in the Nordics it has a special place and is a beloved tradition.  The beauty of a Nordic romjul is that you can embrace it wherever you are in the world, just as we do here. For more Nordic living, visit the Living a Nordic Life www.livinganordiclife.com or join us in the Living a Nordic Life Facebook group www.facebook.com/groups/livinganordiclife

 Christmas is a time for traditions — from family rituals to national customs — that connect us to our roots and bring warmth during the darkest season. In this episode, I share what Christmas looks like in my life in Norway, where Nordic winter landscapes, candlelight, snow, and festive gatherings set the scene. Join me as I explore cherished family and Norwegian traditions, including pepperkaker (gingerbread) baking workshops, cosy Christmas parties, Norwegian Christmas markets filled with handmade gifts, Advent celebrations, and the excitement of the first snowfall and tobogganing. Blending my Norwegian and English family heritage, we create a unique holiday culture full of joy, togetherness, and simple seasonal magic. Whether you’re curious about Christmas in Norway, looking for festive tradition ideas, or simply want to feel the warmth of Nordic holiday rituals, this episode is for you. Share your own family traditions or join the conversation in the Living a Nordic Life Facebook group. For more Nordic living, visit the Living a Nordic Life www.livinganordiclife.com or join us in the Living a Nordic Life Facebook group www.facebook.com/groups/livinganordiclife

From stormy seas to streaming screens, Norse myths refuse to fade. The Eddas still shape Nordic identity—whispering of resilience, trickery, and hope. These aren’t relics of the past; they’re stories that live, adapt, and bind us across time. For exciting fiction and inspiring stories check out FictionMe – Read Thousands of Novels for free For more Nordic living, visit the Living a Nordic Life www.livinganordiclife.com or join us in the Living a Nordic Life Facebook group www.facebook.com/groups/livinganordiclife

Self care is more than a few fluffy blankets, an indulgent lunch or an hour in a bubble bath.  It's a deep, sustainable and grown up commitment to our own mental and physical wellbeing.  But how does that look and can we even achieve it? For more Nordic living, visit the Living a Nordic Life www.livinganordiclife.com or join us in the Living a Nordic Life Facebook group www.facebook.com/groups/livinganordiclife

From London to the Mountains of Norway: Ben Ward swapped London life for a remote farm in the Norwegian mountains, and it hasn’t always been easy. In this episode, he opens up about the highs, lows, and unexpected challenges of living in such a remote place, the fame that followed his TV documentary, and the stories behind his life. Funny, honest, and full of adventure, Ben’s journey proves that chasing a simpler life is never quite as simple as it seems.  You can find Ben here: www.krokengard.no Instagram Facebook Ben's new book - www.ark.no/kroken NRK TV documentary - Der ingen skulle tru at nokon kunne bu - NRK TV For more Nordic living, visit the Living a Nordic Life www.livinganordiclife.com or join us in the Living a Nordic Life Facebook group www.facebook.com/groups/livinganordiclife

In this episode of Living a Nordic Life, we dive into the Norwegian word friluftsliv — “open-air living” — and how it shapes everyday life in the Nordics. More than just spending time outside, friluftsliv is a philosophy, a way of weaving the natural world into the rhythm of daily living. I’ll share how discovering this single word shifted my perspective, teaching me to seek out fresh air and quiet moments no matter the season. From walks in the woods to simple pauses under the sky, friluftsliv became less about activity and more about presence, grounding, and joy. NEW BOOK now available -  UK - https://amzn.eu/d/dGEJ8OW US - Friluftsliv: How to love the outdoors like you're Nordic: McKinna, Fiona: 9798858660064: Amazon.com: Books For more Nordic living, visit the Living a Nordic Life www.livinganordiclife.com or join us in the Living a Nordic Life Facebook group www.facebook.com/groups/livinganordiclife

Join me, Fiona of Living a Nordic Life, as I share my simple and seasonal morning routine in my little corner of southern Norway.  No 5am runs or fresh yaks milk here!!! For more Nordic living, visit the Living a Nordic Life www.livinganordiclife.com or join us in the Living a Nordic Life Facebook group www.facebook.com/groups/livinganordiclife

In this episode of Living a Nordic Life, we wander into the quiet beauty of the Nordic outdoors — not with skis or hiking poles, but with a slower, gentler pace. Discover how Nordic culture embraces the art of simply being outside: sitting on a bench with a cup of coffee, watching the shifting skies, or savoring the scent of pine and sea air. We’ll explore why “doing less” in nature can actually bring us more — more calm, more presence, and more connection to the world around us. Whether it’s lingering by the water’s edge or enjoying the long light of a summer evening, this is a reminder that the simplest moments often become the most meaningful. NEW BOOK now available on Amazon -  UK - Friluftsliv: How to love the outdoors like you're Nordic: Amazon.co.uk: McKinna, Fiona: 9798858660064: Books USA - Friluftsliv: How to love the outdoors like you're Nordic: McKinna, Fiona: 9798858660064: Amazon.com: Books For more Nordic living, visit the Living a Nordic Life www.livinganordiclife.com or join us in the Living a Nordic Life Facebook group www.facebook.com/groups/livinganordiclife

Step into the Nordic forest with me as we explore the story of lingonberries—Scandinavia’s tart red superberry. From ancient traditions and foraging tales to modern recipes and health benefits, this episode uncovers how lingonberries connect culture, nature, and flavour across the Nordic countries.  For more Nordic living, visit the Living a Nordic Life www.livinganordiclife.com or join us in the Living a Nordic Life Facebook group www.facebook.com/groups/livinganordiclife

In this episode of Living a Nordic Life, we explore one of the most beloved Nordic sayings: “There’s no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing.” From rain-soaked autumn days to icy winter mornings, the Nordic approach to the outdoors is simple — nature is not something to avoid, but something to embrace. We’ll talk about how this mindset transforms everyday life, why going outside in all seasons matters so deeply here, and how you can bring a little of that resilient, joyful outdoor spirit into your own routine — no matter where you live. NEW BOOK now available - UK - Friluftsliv: How to love the outdoors like you're Nordic: Amazon.co.uk: McKinna, Fiona: 9798858660064: Books US - Friluftsliv: How to love the outdoors like you're Nordic: McKinna, Fiona: 9798858660064: Amazon.com: Books For more Nordic living, visit the Living a Nordic Life www.livinganordiclife.com or join us in the Living a Nordic Life Facebook group www.facebook.com/groups/livinganordiclife

Life can be pretty hectic whether we like it or not, but taking back some control can be simple and easy.  One of the ways we can be better organised and make life simpler is with some weekly menu planning.  It doesn't have to be boring with these easy-to-implement tips you can take the stress out of preparing meals and stop wondering "what's for dinner". Get your Living a Nordic Life weekly menu planner here - https://workdrive.zoho.eu/file/9zsjodd0a506767bd425f9df39c4cc804ec3c For more Nordic living, visit the Living a Nordic Life www.livinganordiclife.com or join us in the Living a Nordic Life Facebook group www.facebook.com/groups/livinganordiclife

The middle of August is the start of the new school year in Norway.  It's a time of excitement and a few nerves, but before school starts we have to get some supplies in.  Join me in this episode as I discuss what my three children need for school. Hilsen fra Fiona For more Nordic living, visit the Living a Nordic Life www.livinganordiclife.com or join us in the Living a Nordic Life Facebook group www.facebook.com/groups/livinganordiclife