1. Taste A Little Smorgasbord

Fish has always played a major role in the Swedish diet. With a cold winter climate, fish was one of the few foods readily available throughout the year. Today the Swedes still enjoy a diet rich in saltwater fish such as herring, salmon and mackerel. These cold-water fish are rich in omega-3 fatty acids which are believed to promote heart health. And best of all it tastes great.

2. Have It On Rye

In the cooler northern climate of Sweden, rye grows much better than wheat. So traditional Swedish bread is based on fibre rich rye rather than low fibre wheat flour. Swedes eat rye bread in various forms including dense and dark (like pumpernickel), whole grain, airy and light or in typically Swedish crisp breads (knäckebröd). A high fibre diet can have several positive effects on health, including helping to control body weight.

3. Pick The Fruits Of The Forest

If you don't want to go for a tramp in the woods then you'll find forest berries at the supermarket. During the summer months, wild berry picking is a hugely popular Swedish pastime, almost a passion. The Swedes just love berries and enjoy a wide variety from blueberries to cloudberries. Berries are packed with phytonutrients and antioxidants that can help in disease prevention. They are also rich in fibre, low-fat, low- calorie and have a high vitamin content. Buy berries fresh in the summer months or deep frozen out of season. They go great with breakfast cereal, yoghurt, smoothies and fruit salads.

4. Take A Hike

The Swedish winter has particularly long nights and cold days. So come spring, the Swedish folk, being real outdoor types, love to get out and about. Walking, especially through forest and wilderness trails, is a very popular activity in Sweden. A brisk walk of twenty minutes or so can do you good too. Besides being beneficial for the circulation and heart, it also tones the leg muscles and burns calories. And the change of environment can help relieve stress.

5. Enjoy A Sauna

Saunas originate in Scandinavia and public saunas are regularly frequented by many Swedes. The Swedish style sauna is called a 'bastu' and differs from the Finnish sauna in that the air is drier. Saunas have several health benefits. They are a great place to unwind and relieve stress. The heart and circulation are simulated in the same way as when taking a brisk walk. The high heat may stimulate the immune system in the same way as a fever.

6. Relax With A Swedish Massage

Modern western style massage was invented in Sweden in the 1830's. Having first gained popularity in Sweden its practice soon spread throughout Europe and America. Classic Swedish massage is a deeply relaxing experience which gives a general sense of well-being. Physical benefits include stimulation of blood circulation and toning of muscles and skin. Today Swedish massage is readily available at many spas, saunas and hotel resorts throughout the world.

7. Keep An Open Mind

Swedes are well known for their open-minded liberalism and tolerance. The average Swede has a calm, relaxed and positive outlook and seeks solutions rather than conflict. This attitude helps one to cope with the stressful situations of everyday life. One of todays biggest maladies, stress increases the chance of coronary disease and weakens the immune system. Always remember 'cool is a rule!' and keep stress at bay.

(c) 2008 by Lina Lindlom for www.nordicflights.com

Lina Lindlom writes articles about Swedish culture and travel for her website http://www.nordicflights.com