If someone were to say "det var kjempe koselig" to you, then consider yourself quite the hospitable host. "Koselig" (in Norway) is the term to describe one as warm and cozy, while roughly translated, it is a highly praised concept in their culture. The people battle rough weather and harsh conditions as winter's torment threatens their daily activities. It is a way of living, rooted in their perception of winter, which creates the warm environment and embodiment of koselig.

It seems like it would be absolutely miserable to bear the 23-hour darkness as the sun sinks below the horizon for most of the winter season. However, the Norwegians aren’t bogged down by this lack of sunlight. If anything, it opens up their hearts and people from the community band together to illuminate their town centers. The darkness provides the atmosphere for quiet reflection and the ability to light firs in the hearth all day. This simple pleasure of tea lights and candles are vital to the gatherings which occur during the coldest time of the year.

Friends and family gather to celebrate the closeness these winter months afford and they enjoy the presence of others as much as they do the sun or the warmth of a spring day. It is common for neighbors to walk during the one hour of noon sunlight and they soak in the snow-covered landscape. Light reflects off of every surface and creates the perfect scene for a trip into the country while promoting the adoration of summertime activities. The Norwegians love their summers. For their warmth and accessibility, the warmer months mean sunbathing and water sports. In the winter, skiing and snowboarding fill their days and it is a time to warm their bodies – in pursuit of that activity-high. The daily exercise is what satisfies the mood and transforms the depth of a blizzard into paradise.

The fresh air is what wakes them from the sluggishness of laying in front of their ever-running heaters. Babies are even wrapped up, snugly, and put on the porches for a revitalizing nap because the winter air helps them sleep for longer. They suggest getting up and out to refresh the mind as many find sleeping and spending consecutive hours inside to make them sluggish.

One thing to remember is without the darkness you couldn’t see the Northern lights. It is all about the attitude of those who live there. People who seek adventure and perceive the darkness as a place to discover new experiences enjoy it the most. Like in life, a light is only made possible by the presence of darkness. They wouldn’t be able to enjoy the positives of the summer without the cold depths of their winter season. Through the collectivity inherent in their winter activities, Norwegians have found a way to not endure the winter, but embrace it.