Nature and Well-Being: The Finnish Formula for a Happier Life

For the eighth year in a row, Finland has been named the happiest country in the world. While there are many reasons behind this impressive achievement – such as a strong social safety net, excellent education, and low corruption, one factor also stands out: the deep and meaningful connection Finns have with nature.

Nature as a Source of Well-Being

In Finland, nature is not just scenery – it’s a way of life. Research shows that spending time in nature supports both physical and mental health. It lowers stress, boosts mood, and even strengthens social bonds when experienced together. For many Finns, nature is a daily refuge that offers peace, recreation, and recovery from the pressures of modern life.

Whether it’s hiking through forests, picking berries and mushrooms, fishing in a quiet lake, or simply observing the changing seasons, nature is woven into the fabric of Finnish life. Even in cities, green spaces are never far away, making it easy to enjoy the outdoors regularly.

The Freedom to Roam: Everyman’s Rights

One of the most unique aspects of Finnish nature culture is Everyman’s Rights (jokamiehenoikeudet). These rights allow everyone – locals and visitors alike – to enjoy nature freely, regardless of land ownership. Thanks to this tradition, nature is accessible to all.

Here’s what Everyman’s Rights allow – and what they don’t:

What You Can Do:

• Walk, ski, or cycle in forests and fields—even on private land.
• Pick wild berries, mushrooms, and flowers (non-protected species).
• Camp temporarily in the wild, away from homes and cultivated land.
• Swim, boat, and fish with a line and rod in most waters.
• Enjoy nature peacefully without needing permission.

What you Cannot Do:

• Disturb people or damage property.
• Make open fires without permission (except in designated areas).
• Hunt or fish with nets/traps without a license.
• Litter or harm the environment.
• Drive motor vehicles off-road without permission.

Everyman’s Rights come with a responsibility: to respect nature and others. This balance of freedom and care is deeply rooted in Finnish culture and helps preserve the natural environment for future generations. Did you know that the city of Kuusamo in Finland has the cleanest air in the world?  That is quite remarkable! 

In Finland, happiness isn’t just about policies or prosperity – it’s also about the ability to step outside and feel connected to the natural world. Perhaps that’s the real secret to Finnish happiness: a life lived in harmony with nature.

Curious about how Finns enjoy nature? Our Study Tour visitors have an opportunity to join Finnish Nature Experience, where you can spend a guided evening exploring the stunning Finnish outdoors!

Nature and Well-being meet in Finland. How accessible is nature where you live? Do you think your country could benefit from something like Finland’s Everyman’s Rights?  We’d love to hear your thoughts!

Sources to read more:
World Happiness Report 2025
What are the benefits of interacting with nature?
Everyman´s Rights
Adolescents’ experiences in nature: Sources of everyday well-being.