njuta (Enjoy, Delight In): The Swedish Art of Savoring the Moment
by Niki Brantmark
Harvest Publishers, 240 pages
I am a big fan of simple, frugal living, and in enjoying the simple things of life. Savoring what is before you and creating moments of peace and contentment in your life for me, is what it is all about for me. Reading njuta was a welcome respite yesterday as I cuddled in my chair with a blanket to keep cozy and warm, and it resonated with me. This author delves into the Swedish art of savoring the smallest things by creating ritual, creating a cozy home, enjoying nature, making mealtime special and adapting to the seasons.
Moving from London to Sweden, Niki found that this lifestyle brought her joy and she wanted to share what she discovered. The author shares, "As I delved deeper into the intricacies of the word "njuta" while writing this book, I realized how easy it is to let the little pleasures in life pass us by, postponing happiness and believing livsgladje (the joy of life) will follow once we're finally sitting on a deck chair sipping a mojito, or we've made our first (second or third...) million."
It was as fascinating to learn how other cultures live as it was learning how the Swedish accomplish savoring the little moments of life. Because nature has always been so important to me, it was interesting to read how the Swedes use nature to keep themselves balanced and centered. It is important to them to be out in nature. They use walking, biking and skiing to be out in the grand outdoors. "This freedom comes with a caveat: Don't disturb---don't destroy. Swedes highly respect nature and value its importance to clean the air we breathe, filter our water, and provide a home for wildlife." I agree!
Many of the ideas and tips for living are common sense things we have probably considered through the years. Yet it helps to be reminded from time to time. And it is comforting to know that other cultures are just the same as we are deep down. Sometimes in the hustle and bustle of life, we forget to smell the flowers and an afternoon being reminded of that is an afternoon well-spent. I especially liked how the tips were laid out in various ways to break up the pages. It is a wonderfully simple, yet delightful read.
Niki Brantmark is an author known for her books that explore various aspects of Scandinavian living and design. Originally from London, she now resides in Malmö, Sweden with her husband and three children. She has an MA in psychology from the University of Edinburgh. Niki is the creator of the interior design blog My Scandinavian Home, which is inspired by her life in Sweden.
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