Living a Nordic Life with Fiona McKinna

78: January in Old Norse Culture; Fire, Ice & Kinship

 Step into the deep midwinter of the Old Norse world and discover what January meant to the Vikings. In this episode, we explore Yule’s lingering echoes, seasonal rituals, blóts, and the quiet endurance of winter. Learn how Norse families kept culture alive through storytelling, work, and community, and how gods like Odin, Thor, and Freyr shaped life during the coldest months. A reflective journey through Viking winter traditions, Norse mythology, and the Old Norse calendar, perfect for history lovers and mythology enthusiasts.  For more Nordic living, visit the Living a Nordic Life www.livinganordiclife.comor join us in the Living a Nordic Life Facebook group www.facebook.com/groups/livinganordiclife

77: Romjul, a Very Nordic Post Christmas Tradition

Romjul is that time between Christmas and New Year that might feel a little bit of a non-event.  Here in the Nordics it has a special place and is a beloved tradition.  The beauty of a Nordic romjul is that you can embrace it wherever you are in the world, just as we do here. For more Nordic living, visit the Living a Nordic Life www.livinganordiclife.comor join us in the Living a Nordic Life Facebook group www.facebook.com/groups/livinganordiclife

76: Norwegian Christmas Traditions my Family & Friends Love

 Christmas is a time for traditions — from family rituals to national customs — that connect us to our roots and bring warmth during the darkest season. In this episode, I share what Christmas looks like in my life in Norway, where Nordic winter landscapes, candlelight, snow, and festive gatherings set the scene.Join me as I explore cherished family and Norwegian traditions, including pepperkaker (gingerbread) baking workshops, cosy Christmas parties, Norwegian Christmas markets filled with handmade gifts, Advent celebrations, and the excitement of the first snowfall and tobogganing. Blending my Norwegian and English family heritage, we create a unique holiday culture full of joy, togetherness, and simple seasonal magic.Whether you’re curious about Christmas in Norway, looking for festive tradition ideas, or simply want to feel the warmth of Nordic holiday rituals, this episode is for you. Share your own family traditions or join the conversation in the Living a Nordic Life Facebook group. For more Nordic living, visit the Living a Nordic Life www.livinganordiclife.comor join us in the Living a Nordic Life Facebook group www.facebook.com/groups/livinganordiclife

75: How Norse Mythology Still Matters; The Epic of the Eddas

From stormy seas to streaming screens, Norse myths refuse to fade. The Eddas still shape Nordic identity—whispering of resilience, trickery, and hope. These aren’t relics of the past; they’re stories that live, adapt, and bind us across time.For exciting fiction and inspiring stories check out FictionMe – Read Thousands of Novels for free For more Nordic living, visit the Living a Nordic Life www.livinganordiclife.comor join us in the Living a Nordic Life Facebook group www.facebook.com/groups/livinganordiclife

74: What is self care and do we even care?

Self care is more than a few fluffy blankets, an indulgent lunch or an hour in a bubble bath.  It's a deep, sustainable and grown up commitment to our own mental and physical wellbeing.  But how does that look and can we even achieve it? For more Nordic living, visit the Living a Nordic Life www.livinganordiclife.comor join us in the Living a Nordic Life Facebook group www.facebook.com/groups/livinganordiclife