How to Survive Finnish Autumn (and Maybe Even Enjoy It)

Autumn in Finland isn’t just about beauty and vibrant fall colors. It’s also the time of year when many people start to feel more tired and low-spirited. The days grow shorter, the rain becomes constant, and the cold seeps into your bones. No wonder moods can dip and energy levels drop. Some even experience what’s known as seasonal affective disorder, when motivation and joy seem to fade with the light.

But many Finns have learned to live with it, and even make peace with it. They know that instead of fighting against autumn, you can surrender to it gently. When you accept nature’s rhythm, slow down, and give yourself permission to rest, autumn can turn into the most soothing and soulful time of the year.

Here are a few tried and true Finnish ways to find comfort and beauty in the greyness. And if you’ve moved to Finland from a sunny, warm country — we’re sending you extra encouragement!

1. Light Candles – Lots of Them

When darkness falls, Finns reach for matches. One candle, or ten.

Now’s the time to dig out all those half-used or slightly ugly candles you’ve been storing and put them to good use. The moment a candle flickers to life, it changes the mood of the room. Suddenly the rain against the window doesn’t seem depressing at all, but rather cozy and soothing.

And if you have a partner, autumn candlelight might just spark a little extra romance, too.

2. Wool Socks, Sweaters, and a Cozy Nest

When the cold creeps in, Finns respond with softness. Wool socks, a thick sweater, or any warm, soft, and comfortable loungewear work wonders for the spirit.

You can even build yourself a winter nest. Pile up blankets and cushions on your sofa, keep your favorite snacks within arm’s reach, and declare it your hibernation zone.

3. Be Lazy (without Guilt)

Autumn is the perfect season if you really listen to what it’s telling you. Summer urges us to be active, social, and outdoors. Autumn whispers: “Slow down.”

It’s the introvert’s favorite time of year, when staying home is not just acceptable, but encouraged.

In the dim evening light, you can’t see the dust or dirty windows anyway. So relax. You don’t need to be productive. Brew some tea, wrap yourself in a blanket, and binge your favorite show. Resting is not laziness — it’s Nordic wisdom. It’s also one of the most effective ways to survive the dark season (and maybe even enjoy it).

4. Go to the Forest

Nature is the best remedy for fatigue, even in autumn. Or should we say: especially in autumn. You don’t need to do anything special there; the forest takes care of you simply by being there. Studies show that nature helps people think more hopefully, feel calmer, and even become more creative.

Walking among the trees steadies your breath, clears your thoughts, and quiets your mind. And somehow, nature always finds a way to motivate you to move — gently, without pressure.

5. Break the Routine with a “Ruska” Trip

A small change of scenery can work wonders in gloomy October or November. Many Finns head north to Lapland to admire the ruska — the fiery autumn colors — but you don’t have to travel that far. Southern Finland’s maples and oaks put on a breathtaking show, too.

Maybe plan a short road trip, a day hike, or a one-night getaway to a nearby town or national park.

6. Learn to Enjoy the Rain

A rainy autumn day in Finland is the perfect excuse to slow down. The sound of rain is nature’s own meditation soundtrack — no Spotify white noise playlist required. Open a window for a moment and let the cool, earthy scent drift in. Or better yet, put on your raincoat and take a short walk.

If you can find a lean-to shelter or a campfire spot, listen to the rain mingling with the crackle of the fire. Possibly the most relaxing sound combination in the world!

7. Rent a Cottage and Light the Fireplace

In traditional Finnish homes, autumn means one thing: firewood season. Chopping wood and lighting the fire becomes part of the daily rhythm.

If you live in a modern apartment without a fireplace, rent a cottage for a weekend. There’s something deeply satisfying about lighting a wood stove, heating up a sauna, and letting the warmth seep into your bones.

8. Allow Yourself to Feel Tired

It’s completely normal to feel more tired and withdrawn in autumn. That’s not weakness, it’s part of the natural cycle. The forest rests, animals hibernate, even the Moomins go to sleep for the winter. So why shouldn’t we? When you stop demanding constant energy from yourself, you start to see autumn in a new light.

You don’t have to fight the season, you can flow with it.

Read next

What to do in Finland in Autumn? Here is a Wonderful 10-Item Bucket List for You!

Autumn is coming to Lapland – this is how it looks, sounds, feels, smells and tastes like

Enjoy the Most Beautiful Ironworks Village in Finland in Peace – Fiskars, Founded in the 1600s, is a Stunning Autumn Destination in Raseborg

Hiking Through Autumn Wonders in Teijo National Park, Salo

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