“Well, yes of course”, you might respond instantly. But truly think about it. Have you slowed down and just took a breath? Nothing more, nothing less? You just breathed? Felt the crisp autumn air you were taking in? Dwelled in a moment of completeness and simplicity?
Outdoor adventures during the autumn season add so many colorful layers to your experience – in the most literal sense. In Finland, we call this transitional period into the long winter ahead “Ruska”. The leaves on the trees turn to the most indescribable shades of gold, orange and red before they will be covered up by layers upon layers of snow and ice.
If you want to avoid the busy season during the winter months, it is worth looking into planning your trip to Lapland from late August to mid-October. And pssst! Also, your chances of seeing the Northern Lights during this time of year are much higher due to less cloud coverage and snow. And they appear much more intense against a ground not covered by snow.
Ruska is an amazing season to lose yourself in the beauty of nature. Every year I am surprised how quickly the seasons change up here. And there is just something in the air that announces the arrival of winter. So, it is ever more important to slow down, take a moment and marvel at all the beautiful colors nature provides during Ruska. Lapland is one of the only places where the autumn colors also show on the ground.
If you really want to get away from it all, why not hop in a canoe and paddle out on a lake, far away from the shore? I was surprised to learn this week that our canoe trips are amongst our lesser booked tours. If you are at all like me and have trouble disconnecting from all your obligations and duties, a change of scenery might be exactly what you need. Tuck your phone in your pocket and paddle away!
There is something so soothing about the sun touching the tree tops in the distance, sending pale gold reflections over the water. Let your body adapt to the movement of the paddle, feel it change its rhythm, notice that you too slow down. Just breathe. Northing more, nothing less. And you will notice, that for a brief moment in time, you’ll find happiness.
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