Excerpt from my book: '' Lagom Lady, 7 aspects of balanced life I learned from Swedish women''
"In a country that values independence, personal activities during free time are always encouraged and prevalent. In addition, the after-school care services (Fritids, meaning 'leisure time') provide maximum support for women to find their own time."
In Sweden, free time is regarded as an essential aspect of women's lives, enabling them to prioritize self-care, personal growth, and overall well-being. Through a variety of activities, Swedish women engage in during their leisure time, they nurture their physical, mental, and emotional health.
The Importance of Free Time to Women's Health
#1 - Stress Reduction
Engaging in leisure activities provides an opportunity for Swedish women to unwind and reduce stress levels. Whether it's through engaging in hobbies, enjoying nature, or practicing mindfulness, free time allows for relaxation and rejuvenation, helping to alleviate the negative effects of chronic stress.
#2 - Mental and Emotional Well-being
Participating in activities that bring joy and fulfillment can significantly contribute to women's mental and emotional well-being. Engaging in hobbies, pursuing creative outlets, and connecting with others during free time can boost self-esteem, enhance mood, and provide a sense of purpose and accomplishment.
#3 - Physical Health Benefits
ME TIME or Free-time provides an opportunity for Swedish women to prioritize their physical health. Engaging in exercise, sports, or outdoor activities during leisure time contributes to improved cardiovascular health, increased energy levels, better sleep patterns, and reduced risks of obesity and chronic diseases.
# 4 - Work-Life Balance
Beside, Free-time allows women to achieve a healthy work-life balance, ensuring that they have time for self-care, relaxation, and personal pursuits. Balancing responsibilities with leisure activities can help prevent burnout, increase productivity, and enhance overall life satisfaction.
Activities of Swedish Women in Free Time
Swedish women embrace a diverse range of activities during their leisure time, reflecting their individual interests, passions, and preferences. While the choices can vary greatly from person to person, here are some common activities enjoyed by Swedish women:
#1 - Outdoor Pursuits
With an abundance of natural landscapes, Swedish women often take advantage of their surroundings by engaging in outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, jogging, or skiing. These activities not only provide physical exercise but also allow them to connect with nature, reduce stress levels, and enhance mental well-being.
#2 - Cultural and Artistic Pursuits
Many Swedish women have a strong appreciation for cultural experiences. They may visit museums, art galleries, attend concerts, or participate in cultural events and festivals. These activities provide an opportunity for self-expression, intellectual stimulation, and social interaction, which are all crucial for personal growth and emotional well-being.
#3 - Sports and Fitness
Sports and physical activities hold significant importance in Swedish culture, and women actively participate in various sports such as football, tennis, swimming, and gymnastics. Engaging in regular exercise not only contributes to physical health but also boosts mental clarity, improves self-confidence, and reduces the risk of chronic illnesses.
#4 - Socializing and Community Engagement
Swedish women value social connections and often dedicate their free time to spending quality moments with friends, family, and community members. They may gather for fika (the Swedish tradition of enjoying coffee and pastries), organize potluck dinners, or engage in volunteer work, promoting social cohesion and a sense of belonging.
Currently, I am a member of Winvino (the Women's Wine Awards Club in Jönköping). Finding space and time for oneself may seem difficult or pointless, but in reality, it doesn't require as much time as I had initially thought. Moreover, I gained more than I had expected: fascinating stories, social connections, renewed energy, and a sense of excitement and focus upon returning to my daily routine.
Recognizing the importance of free time and actively participating in fulfilling activities allows Swedish women to lead balanced, vibrant lives that positively impact their overall health and happiness.
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