‘Living for the weekend’ in English-speaking countries tends to have a negative ring to it – that the week is so unbearable, we just have to push through to Friday. But in Sweden, ‘fredagsmys’ – literally translating to ‘Friday cosy’ – is a complete celebration.
The anticipation of a relaxing weekend, recapping your successes of the week and planning a cosy Friday night in with loved ones is what fredagsmys is all about. Norway (fredagskos) and Denmark (fredagshygge) have this tradition, too. Yes – ‘mys’ is the Swedish translation of the Danish word ‘hygge’, so you get the idea.
“‘Fredagsmys’ literally translates to ‘Friday cosy’”
Work hard, play hard
Rather than focus on the negatives, it’s the Swedish way to create small moments every day, in every season, for wellness and cosiness. The Swedes love their ‘mys’ – you’ll find words like ‘höstmys’ (autumn cosiness) and ‘julmys’ (Christmas cosiness) peppered through the dictionary too.
Even at work, the aim is to live in the moment, so do as the Swedes do and enjoy a good week’s productivity – the weekend relaxation will feel all the better for it.
The order of the (Fri)day then, is cosy loungewear, blankets, a squishy sofa, a good film and lots of snacks or a wholesome dinner. The perfect night in, especially in the colder months, which the Scandinavians are frankly experts in, so who are we to argue? Start planning your Friday night on Monday so you can build the anticipation all week for the ultimate fredagsmys.
“The order of the (Fri)day then, is cosy loungewear, blankets, a squishy sofa, a good film and lots of snacks.”
Pop culture
Fredagsyms really gained popularity as a concept via the catchy jingle from an advert for crisps. Swedish snack brand OLW’s original song all about that Friday feeling has become a bit of an anthem in the country and everyone knows it. You may remember if you’re in the UK and of a certain age (hello Geriatric Millennials!), the nineties Crunchie ad came close to encapsulating that Friday feeling, but a chocolate figure on a rollercoaster doesn’t quite equate with PJs, crisps and cuddles, does it? We’d rather do it the Swedish way, thanks.
Cosy night in? Make your own snuggly PJs
There’s nothing better than coming home on a chilly winter evening and changing straight into a slouchy jumper, woolly socks and your favourite pjs. This pair will let everyone know you’re officially off-duty, and ready to curl up on the sofa for the night. Follow The New Craft House’s pattern for cosy-glam swan pyjamas.
More of an outdoors person? You need friluftsliv in your life!
Despite their reputation for loving cosiness and spending time at home, people living in Scandinavian countries also love spending time outdoors – and enjoying the beautiful natural landscapes that surround them.
Find out why friluftsliv could be the moodboosting practice that gets you through the winter!
