Inside Sweden's happiness: What makes this nation one of the world's happiest
The philosophy of “lagom” and other fascinating habits of Swedes (photo: Getty Images)
Sweden is not just the land of fjords, IKEA, and quality watches. It's also home to a unique life philosophy called "lagom," which means "just the right amount." This approach helps Swedes stay happy, healthy, and active even in old age. Add to that half a year of northern lights and breathtaking natural beauty, and it's easy to see why the country feels so special. Here is the philosophy of "lagom," and fascinating facts about life in Sweden.
The most interesting facts about Sweden
More than 50 bridges in Stockholm
The city is spread across 14 islands connected by over 50 bridges, earning it the nickname "Venice of the North." A boat ride or even a simple walk across a bridge opens up postcard-worthy views.
Allemansrätten law lets you walk almost anywhere
In Sweden, everyone has the right to roam freely, pick berries, and set up a tent even on private land as long as it doesn't disturb the owner. It's a paradise for hiking, camping, and exploring wild nature without breaking any rules.
Fika: Swedish life ritual
This coffee-and-cinnamon-bun break is almost sacred in Sweden. Tourists should definitely experience this calm rhythm in local cafés, where no one is in a hurry and every moment has its own flavor.
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Stockholm (photo: Wikipedia)
IKEA Museum in Älmhult: A must for design lovers
Here you can see the brand's first furniture pieces, old catalogs, and even try assembling some of the iconic models yourself. It's a journey into the Swedish philosophy of simplicity and functionality.
Northern lights in Kiruna are like touching the cosmos
From September to March, you can witness one of the most spectacular natural phenomena on Earth. In Abisko National Park, the Aurora Sky Station observatory offers an almost nightly view of the glowing sky.
Icehotel in Jukkasjärvi is a hotel made of ice that melts every spring
Rebuilt every year from the ice of the Torne River, everything here, including the walls and furniture and glasses, is frozen. It's more than just a stay; it's a true Arctic adventure in frosty comfort.
Uppsala (photo: Wikipedia)
The Öresund Bridge connects Sweden and Denmark
This impressive engineering structure allows you to drive straight from Sweden into Copenhagen. Travelers often combine two cities in one tour.
Sweden has no trash bins and no trash
An incredible 99% of waste is recycled or used for energy production. Visitors are often amazed by how clean even the biggest cities are and how easy it is to sort waste right on the street.
Philosophy of lagom: Balance in everything
The word doesn't have an exact translation, but it captures the essence of the Swedish way of life: comfort without excess. Tourists often notice that this understated elegance is what makes Sweden so appealing.
Gothenburg (photo: Wikipedia)
Stockholm metro: An underground art gallery
Artists designed each of the more than 90 stations, adding sculptures, mosaics, installations, and light projects. Travelers can buy a day pass and enjoy an art tour beneath the city.
What the philosophy of lagom means
Lagom is more than just a word. It's a Swedish way of life. It derives from the old expression laget om, meaning "for everyone equally." It's about balance in everything: work, food, daily life, and even relationships. In Sweden, working overtime or flaunting luxury is not the norm; what truly matters is calm, simplicity, and equilibrium.
Fewer things, more meaning
Swedes rarely buy what they don't need. Their homes are simple, bright, and clutter-free. This interior style, known as "Scandi minimalism," was born from the philosophy of lagom. It teaches that if something doesn't bring joy or serve a purpose, it doesn't belong in your home.
Balance between work and rest
In Sweden, every worker is legally entitled to five weeks of paid vacation. Work should never destroy personal life. Every office observes fika, a coffee break with a bun and conversation. It's not just a pause, but a symbol of respect for a stress-free life.
Malmö (photo: Wikipedia)
Nature as a source of inner peace
Swedes believe connecting with nature is essential for mental health. They go to the forest to "recharge the soul," pick berries, ski, and enjoy the outdoors even in the rain or cold. Feeling connected to nature helps them maintain calmness and gratitude for life's simple pleasures.
Lagom food is balanced and wholesome
Traditional Swedish cuisine is simple: whole-grain bread, fish, vegetables, and berry sauces. The main rule is "eat enough to feel satisfied, but not stuffed." Swedes don't count calories; they listen to their bodies.
How lagom can change your life
Psychologists note that people who live by the lagom principle are less prone to burnout and depression. This mindset doesn't preach austerity, but teaches appreciation for balance: not too much, not too little. That's one of the reasons Swedes consistently rank among the happiest nations in the world.
Earlier, we wrote about a village near Ternopil with an ancient viaduct and church worth visiting
Sources: Visit Sweden, Swedish Institute, National Geographic Travel, Aurora Sky Station Official, IKEA Museum (ikeamuseum.com), Swedish Environmental Protection Agency.
