In Scandinavia, daily interaction with nature has helped turn many people into passionate advocates for the environment. But there are forces at play in American society that divide humans from nature. To name just a few? Schools cut recess to make more time for academic instruction, cities boast sprawl over walkability, and our societal reverence for cleanliness prevents many Americans from getting outside and getting a little dirty.

Best-selling author Linda McGurk was born in Sweden and, later, raised her own children in the US. Linda is on the show to highlight the ways in which the two cultures diverge with regard to interacting with and respecting the natural world; she also offers both the encouragement and the how-to to get outside in all weather.

Here's a preview:

[5:00] Nature isn't an essential part of childhood here in America. Why not?

[18:00] Not competitive, not motorized, and 3 other ways adults prioritize the open-air life in Scandinavia

[23:00] No such thing as bad weather? What about extreme, climate change-induced weather events?

[28:00] Revisiting our very-American need to be comfortable at all times

[32:00] American schools are slowly eliminating outdoor recess. Here's how to advocate for more outdoor time at your child's school

Resources mentioned:

• There's No Such Thing as Bad Weather: A Scandinavian Mom's Secrets for Raising Healthy, Resilient, and Confident Kids
• The Open-Air Life: Discover the Nordic Art of Friluftsliv and Embrace Nature Every Day
• Linda on Substack
• Children And Nature Network
• Buy Now: The Shopping Conspiracy (via Netflix)

 

• This show is listener-supported. Thank you for supporting!
• Join our (free!) Facebook community here.
• Find your tribe. Sustainable Minimalists are on Facebook, Instagram + Youtube @sustainableminimalists
• Say hello! MamaMinimalistBoston@gmail.com.