Unlock Finnish Happiness: Kotona Shares the Happiness Toolkit

Kotona is an international lifestyle platform that brings the essence of Finnish happiness to a global audience. Focusing on creativity, simplicity, and authenticity, Kotona.com provides a practical happiness toolkit filled with ideas for finding joy in everyday life — no matter where you live.

What makes Finns so happy? While Finland’s global reputation for happiness often highlights its robust social systems and world-class education, Kotona delves deeper into the everyday practices that make Finnish life so fulfilling. From quirky DIY projects to cozy saunas and the serene beauty of Nordic summers, Finnish happiness is rooted in finding joy in small moments and simple pleasures.

“Finnish happiness isn’t curated, it’s created,” says Maija Koski, Editor-in-Chief of Kotona and an expert on Finnish lifestyle. “In Finland, every flower is allowed to bloom: in personality, lifestyle, and home. Relaxation and acceptance set people free.”

According to Koski, the core of Finnish happiness lies in community spirit, the ability to enjoy silence, and a can-do attitude.

“You don’t need to be a professional to start a meaningful project. A good idea and belief in success go a long way. In Finland, people might seem reserved at first, but there’s a deep sense of loyalty and commitment once connections are made. Whether it’s coming together for seasonal neighborhood clean-ups or supporting single-parent co-housing communities, Finns know how to build meaningful relationships—and that’s something anyone can learn from,” Koski adds.

Kotona serves as a true happiness toolkit, inviting readers worldwide to incorporate elements of Finnish living into their own routines. These aren’t grand gestures. They’re simple, intentional practices that transform ordinary moments into sources of joy and fulfillment.

“We differ from many Scandinavian media outlets in that our visual content isn’t overly polished or styled: it’s authentic and stunning in its rawness. We’ve also made a conscious choice to focus on both the big and small aspects of daily life because life is made up of these moments, and they define satisfaction,” explains Maija Koski about Kotona.

Finns have a talent for turning mundane tasks into creative opportunities. One popular Kotona project demonstrates how to divide a kids’ room using a bunk bed. Another favorite involves repurposing a chest freezer as a backyard ice hole for winter swimming, proving that even unconventional ideas can spark joy.

From repairing clothes to growing herbs on your windowsill, Kotona showcases how small, thoughtful actions can benefit both the planet and your well-being. For example, one article highlights the art of mending clothing—not just as a sustainable practice but as a satisfying hobby that blends functionality with creativity.

Finnish happiness often stems from a deep connection to nature. Whether it’s cultivating a shared garden in an apartment complex, enjoying the Nordic summer, winter swimming, or marveling at the magic of twilight in your backyard, Kotona encourages readers to embrace the restorative power of the outdoors.

Even seemingly mundane activities like organizing shoes or tidying up can become moments of mindfulness and satisfaction when approached with intention. Kotona.com shares practical tips for turning chaos into calm, proving that small victories can lead to big happiness.

Finns take exceptional care of their pets, whether it’s establishing hospice homes for dogs or dressing them warmly for cold winters. Life’s joys can also come from nurturing houseplants or investing in beautiful objects that bring delight to your surroundings.

As modern life becomes increasingly fast-paced and overwhelming, Kotona offers a refreshing alternative: a slower, more intentional approach to living that prioritizes well-being over perfection. You don’t need to live in Finland to experience Finnish happiness.

“You just need to adopt a mindset that values creativity, balance, and the beauty of imperfection,” Koski reminds us.