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Fika, flower crowns, festivities, and culture.
It is the halfway point in the year and perhaps a time to spread some rays of sunshine from a wonderful European experience. I have just returned from a trip to Sweden. From Stockholm to Dalarna – what a great place to spend the summer solstice and midsummer!
We can share and learn much from different and similar cultures.
Life throws all sorts of stuff at us all. It is important to try and keep some hope and positivity even in the most difficult times.
The Dala Horse is a symbol of good luck, strength, and courage.
I enjoyed the midsommer traditions and festivities that celebrate the arrival of summer including a traditional floral crown.
It was my first attempt at making a flower crown and I was happy to wear flowers in my hair for the celebrations.
‘Legend has it that flowers and herbs picked on the summer solstice have magical properties.’
The Maypole, or Midsummer Pole (Midsommarstågen) – a local centre of the day’s festivities with dancing and songs around the Maypole. Many people participated (I joined in a little too).
Midsommer is a time for family and friends.
Fika, flower crowns, festivities, good food, and culture.
Sweden has much to offer.
(And of course, some superb science too!)
Fika is a concept, a state of mind, an attitude, and an important part of Swedish culture. It’s about making time for friends and colleagues to share a cup of coffee (or tea) and a little something to eat. Many people think we should make time for ‘fika’ every day.
To finding hope and positivity even in the most difficult times.
by Dr Julie Charlesworth 27/06/23