Norwegian Wood

Friluftsliv, a term coined by Ibsen, translates as 'free-air life'. There's a distinct enthusiasm for this activity in Norway. The 500 clubs amalgamated under the Norsk Friluftsliv banner is currently closing in on one million members. In deed, 77% of Norwegians spend time in nature (hiking, kayaking or simply sitting in woodland), on a weeking basis (https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2023/sep/27/the-norwegian-secret-how-friluftsliv-boosts-health-and-happiness). Such 'communing with nature' is hardly a new concept. Folk in many parts of the world have advocated it. There's good evidence that spending time in nature reduces 'stress' and improves mood. These effects have distinct health benefits in terms of blood pressure, cardiac disease and mental health. Given the Norwegian enthusiasm for nature, it's somewhat surprising, however, the country apparently remains committed to extracting every last drop of oil from North Sea deposits. That certainly won't be benefiting the natural world in Norway or anywhere else!