The World Happiness Report 2024 has Finland reigning supreme as the happiest country in the world, with Sweden following closely at number four.
What's their secret?
It seems embracing rest and prioritising sleep might be a big part of the equation.
In the hustle and bustle of modern life, it's easy to overlook the importance of rest and quality sleep. Yet, these two Nordic countries stand out as shining examples of how prioritising rest can lead to happier, healthier lives.
The Finnish Connection with Nature and Sleep
In Finland, there's a profound appreciation for the power of nature and its impact on wellbeing. They foster a deep love for the outdoors. People make a point of spending time in nature every day, even in the winter. This exposure to sunlight and fresh air is believed to contribute to better sleep quality and overall health.
Additionally, the Finnish lifestyle is known for its relaxed pace, further contributing to better sleep. It's no surprise then that according to the World Sleep Survey, Finland ranks among the top countries for sleep quality, with a whopping 84% reporting good sleep!
Moreover, the Finnish National Institute for Health and Welfare found that Finns sleep an average of 7 hours per night, which is higher than the global average.
Sweden: Work-Life Balance for Optimal Recharge
Meanwhile, in Sweden, there's a strong emphasis on work-life balance. Swedes recognise the importance of unwinding and recharging, prioritising both physical and mental health.
This is reflected in the high quality of sleep enjoyed by the majority of the population. With generous amounts of paid time off, Swedes have the opportunity to rejuvenate and avoid burnout.
By prioritising rest and relaxation, both Finland and Sweden demonstrate that a well-rested population is a happier one.
Their examples underscore the importance of incorporating rest into our daily lives, not as an afterthought but as a fundamental aspect of overall wellbeing.
The Rest Space Connection
At Rest Space, we believe in the transformative power of rest. Our mission is to inspire individuals and organisations to prioritise rest, fostering happier, healthier communities.
By following the lead of countries like Finland and Sweden, we can create a world where rest is valued as essential for success and happiness.
The message is clear: rest isn't a luxury, it's a necessity for happiness and success.
Let's embrace the lessons from these Nordic nations and make rest a priority in our lives.
Together, we can cultivate a culture that celebrates the rejuvenating effects of downtime and ensures a brighter, more fulfilling future for all.
Visit our website to explore our resources on creating a building a rest culture for your workplace and prioritising sleep for a happier, healthier you!