Sleep Like A Swede: 7 Cozy Bedroom Hacks From Scandinavia

By now, you probably know that Scandinavians consistently rank as some of the happiest people in the world. The chipper nature of countries like Denmark, Sweden, and Norway has a lot to do with their extensive welfare programs, access to pristine nature, and cultural emphasis on community and caregiving. But many Scandis also know a thing or two about staying healthy—starting with their sleep.

Swedish-American writer and author of Live Lagom Anna Brones explains that living in Scandinavia means living with unapologetic seasons. "There's a celebration of those seasons instead of a full resistance," she tells mbg, explaining that people in Sweden usually spend all summer outdoors and craft cozy cocoons come winter.

Norwegian wellness coach Wenche Reinstein adds that part of living in tune with the seasons means designing a space that maximizes natural light. She tells mbg that bedrooms in Scandinavia often face East, so they get summer sun in the morning but stay slightly darker in the evenings. Most households also have blackout curtains to block out some of that summer sun and set the stage for uninterrupted sleep.

In keeping with the theme of seasonal transitions, Reinstein adds that, in Norway, it's not uncommon for people to own both heavier and lighter-weight duvet sets. "You usually switch them out in winter and summer," she adds.

"In Norway, it's common to have dinner much earlier, around 4 or 5 p.m.," Reinstein explains. This is typically the main meal of the day (also known as middag), and it keeps people satiated until close to bedtime when they might have another light supper meal consisting of savory oatmeal or another complex carb.

One reason that Scandis can eat dinner earlier in the day is that they tend to wrap up work relatively early, too. While Brones says that they aren't immune to overwork, in general, Scandinavians maintain a healthy balance of work and life.

Reinstein and Brones both say that Scandinavians of all ages spend a lot of time outdoors—and they'll often bring touches of nature inside as well.

"A lot of Swedish design revolves around natural materials and a mix of textures," says Brones. "Think beautiful wooden chairs and tables and wool blankets; textures that feel good to the touch and bring a sense of warmth and coziness to your space." Freshly picked wildflowers in summer, bare branches in a vase in winter, and unscented candles all year round are also popular.

These natural, inviting materials are often styled in a clean, minimalist fashion. This is especially important in the bedroom, where piles of clutter can keep us up at night.