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12.08.22 | Sage Advice

Understanding the Swedish Philosophy of Fredagsmys

Swedes are known for their love of organizations, structure and readiness, which is one of the reasons why their culture’s work ethic is unlike any other. Because they value their work time so much, Swedes typically reserve a night a week to unwind and relax, which they call fredagsmys. While the philosophy shares similarities with other European philosophies, the Swede’s tradition is something we should all embrace to live a more vibrant life. 

What It Means

Following a hard work week, it’s a Swede tradition to spend Friday nights relaxing and unwinding. They call this fredagsmys, which means “Friday coziness” in Swedish. A typical fredagsmys will involve time spent with family and friends, playing board games, watching movies and enjoying their favorite snacks and meals.  

There’s no question that fredagsmys contribute to Sweden’s position as the happiest country in the world. Instead of staying in and watching television, Swedes spend Monday through Thursday evenings doing their favorite hobbies and activities, reserving Friday for relaxation. Fredagsmys have been a staple of Swedish households since the mid-1980s. However, today more than ever, Swedes are embracing the tradition as a perfect Friday night recharge. 

How To Embrace Fredagsmys 

There’s no correct approach to fredagsmys, which makes the philosophy easy to embrace. While you can do it alone, the most popular way to participate in fredagsmys is with others. Call up your family of friends and make a fun meal like a taco bar or a grand salad for everyone to enjoy together. 

Fredagsmys is all about going for casual and comfy. After dinner, throw on your snuggliest pajamas, grab a blanket and move to the couch for game night or a movie night with a glass of wine. However you choose to fredagsmys, what matters the most is the quality time spent with others or with yourself. 

We could all benefit from incorporating fredagsmys into our vocabulary and philosophy. At Sage Collective, we believe in the power of recharging, community and high-quality living — and we celebrate all that fredagsmys embodies.

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