Friluftsliv: A Philosophy That Aligns with Blue Earth Summit’s Mission and Values

In Norway and Sweden, Friluftsliv isn’t just a niche lifestyle, it’s a mainstream, deeply ingrained part of everyday culture. It’s not viewed as a trend or subculture but as a fundamental aspect of life, woven into the fabric of society. From childhood, people are encouraged to spend time outdoors, and it’s common to see families, professionals, and retirees alike embracing this philosophy in their daily routines, regardless of the weather. It’s a normalised approach to wellness and balance, where outdoor activities are simply part of the rhythm of life—whether it’s hiking, skiing, or just a walk in the woods. Friluftsliv represents a cultural value system where nature is seen not only as a place for recreation but as a vital space for mental and physical wellbeing. It emphasises the importance of slowing down, disconnecting from the fast pace of modern life, and finding harmony with the natural world.

This connection to the natural world is why Friluftsliv aligns seamlessly with the values and mission of Blue Earth. We exist as a platform that brings together changemakers, visionaries, and innovators committed to building a sustainable future for both people and the planet. The event is a celebration of purpose-led businesses, environmental stewardship, and the powerful intersection between nature and innovation. As we dive deeper into the essence of Friluftsliv and its significance, it becomes clear that this philosophy is not only relevant but critical to the overarching vision of Blue Earth. Which is built around our collective ambition to get outdoors, be healthy and live a more sustainable life. Aka Friluftsliv

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What is Friluftsliv?

Originating in Norway and Sweden, Friluftsliv is a cultural concept that encourages people to spend time in nature, whether through hiking, skiing, kayaking, or simply walking through a forest. It’s a philosophy that emphasises the joy and peace of mind found in the natural environment, encouraging people to live in harmony with the wilderness. Unlike traditional outdoor activities focused on competition or achievement, Friluftsliv is about simplicity, mindfulness, and the pure pleasure of being outside.

The idea was popularised by Norwegian playwright Henrik Ibsen in the 19th century when he used the term in a poem, describing it as a way of life that keeps the soul alive and nourished. Friluftsliv is not merely a hobby or a weekend pastime, it’s a mindset, a lifestyle, and a form of wellness deeply intertwined with nature. This Scandinavian tradition has long promoted the belief that time spent outdoors leads to better mental, physical, and emotional health, something that modern science now supports.

At its heart, Friluftsliv reminds us that we are part of nature, not separate from it. This harmonious relationship is a principle that can be applied far beyond personal wellbeing, it speaks to how we should approach sustainability, climate action, and even business.

How Friluftsliv Aligns with Blue Earth Summit’s Brand Values

The philosophy of Friluftsliv resonates deeply with the core values of Blue Earth because it encapsulates a commitment to rebalancing our relationship with the natural world.

1. Connection with Nature
   Blue Earth Summit is fundamentally about fostering a closer relationship between business and nature. In a world that increasingly prioritises digital experiences, Blue Earth Summit encourages its attendees to reconnect with the physical environment around them, reminding them of the vital role nature plays in our lives. Friluftsliv shares this core value of connection. Whether through immersive outdoor activities or simple mindfulness practices, both the Summit and the philosophy encourage us to step away from our screens and re-engage with the earth beneath our feet.
   
   At Blue Earth Summit, participants are invited to engage in activities like open-water swimming, trail running, yoga, and breathwork—all of which embody the spirit of Friluftsliv. These activities aren’t just about physical exercise; they’re about grounding oneself in the natural world, feeling a sense of belonging, and gaining clarity on how best to protect the planet we inhabit.
   
   
2. Sustainability and Regeneration
   A key tenet of Blue Earth is the promotion of sustainable and regenerative solutions. Whether through the discussions on climate health, renewable energy, or nature recovery, Blue Earth is dedicated to finding solutions that will allow both people and the planet to thrive. Friluftsliv aligns perfectly with this value, as it emphasises a respectful, symbiotic relationship with nature. It’s not about taking from the earth but about living in balance with it, understanding that our well-being is directly tied to the health of the environment.
   
   
3. Community and Collaboration
   The philosophy of Friluftsliv is inherently sustainable. It encourages minimalism, environmental stewardship, and the appreciation of natural resources. When you practise Friluftsliv, you are reminded of the beauty and fragility of the ecosystems that sustain life, which naturally fosters a mindset of conservation and regeneration. In this way, Friluftsliv and Blue Earth are both advocates for a future where humans live in harmony with the earth, and where every business and individual action is taken with sustainability in mind.
   
   Another cornerstone of Blue Earth is its focus on community. The event brings together people from all walks of life (business founders, investors, environmentalists, adventurers and policymakers) united by a common goal: to create positive, impactful change. Friluftsliv also promotes a sense of community, but in a quieter, more personal way. When people gather to hike, camp, or simply spend time in the wilderness, they are reminded of their interconnectedness with each other and the world around them.
   
   At Blue Earth Summit, this communal spirit is fostered through collaborative workshops, panels, and networking opportunities. Much like Friluftsliv, which is best experienced with others, the Summit thrives on the sharing of ideas and the collective effort to drive change.
   
   
4. Innovation and Creativity Rooted in Nature
   At Blue Earth, innovation is at the forefront of every conversation. The event seeks to explore how we can harness new innovations and creativity to solve the planet’s most pressing problems. Interestingly, Friluftsliv offers its own perspective on innovation by encouraging us to look to nature for inspiration. Biomimicry, for example—one of the most exciting fields in sustainable innovation—draws directly from natural systems and organisms to design products and technologies that are both efficient and eco-friendly.
   
   In the same way, Friluftsliv teaches us that nature has already developed many of the solutions we seek. Whether it’s the way trees filter air, the resilience of ecosystems, or the sustainable practices of indigenous cultures, there is much we can learn from the natural world. Blue Earth encourages this type of thinking—challenging attendees to find innovative solutions that are not only effective but also inspired by nature.
   

Friluftsliv: A Call to Action for Businesses and Leaders

At its core, Friluftsliv is a call to action for businesses, governments, and leaders. It challenges us to rethink how we interact with the natural world and asks whether our current systems and practices are sustainable for the future. As Blue Earth Summit welcomes change makers from around the world, it presents the perfect platform for this type of reflection.

The businesses, investors, and policymakers attending Blue Earth Summit are creating solutions that address climate change, biodiversity loss, and social inequalities. Just as Friluftsliv advocates for a simpler, more mindful way of living, Blue Earth Summit pushes for a more thoughtful, responsible way of doing business. Whether through regenerative agriculture, circular economies, or renewable energy, the event highlights that the future of business is one that respects and protects the natural world.

A Shared Mission for a Sustainable Future

As we reflect on the alignment between Friluftsliv and the mission of Blue Earth, it becomes clear that both are driven by the same fundamental principles: respect for nature, community, sustainability, and innovation. They both advocate for a future where humans and the natural world can coexist in harmony, where businesses are driven by purpose as much as profit, and where innovation is inspired by the wisdom of the earth.

Blue Earth Summit is more than an event, it’s a movement. And in many ways, Friluftsliv is more than just a lifestyle, it’s a philosophy that can guide us toward a more sustainable, regenerative future. Together, they offer a powerful blueprint for how we can live, work, and thrive in harmony with the planet.