FYI - In Sweden at night, why do many homes leave the blinds open and put candles and lamps in the windows?

In Sweden and other Scandinavian countries, it's a cultural tradition to embrace and celebrate the darkness during the winter months. The practice of leaving blinds open and placing candles or lamps in the windows is known as "mysljus" or "mysbelysning," which translates to "cozy lights" or "comfort lighting." There are a few reasons behind this cultural phenomenon:

1. Embracing Darkness: In Sweden, especially during the long nights of winter, there's a cultural appreciation for darkness. Rather than trying to shut out the darkness, the tradition involves embracing it and finding ways to make the environment cozy and inviting.

2. Hygge and Gemütlichkeit: The concept of creating a warm and cozy atmosphere is not unique to Sweden; it is found in various forms in other Northern European cultures, such as the Danish concept of "hygge" and the German concept of "Gemütlichkeit." These ideas emphasize the importance of creating a warm, comfortable, and intimate atmosphere, especially during the colder and darker seasons.

3. Community and Welcoming Atmosphere: Leaving blinds open and placing lights in windows can contribute to a sense of community and a welcoming atmosphere. It's a way for neighbours to share the warmth and light of their homes with others, creating a collective ambiance that contrasts with the darkness outside.

4. Winter Celebrations: The tradition is often associated with winter celebrations, including Christmas. During the holiday season, many people decorate their homes with lights and candles, and this practice extends beyond specific holidays to encompass the entire winter period.

5. Natural Light Deprivation: In regions with long nights during the winter, the lack of natural daylight can have an impact on people's mood and well-being. Bringing warm artificial light into the home can help create a more comfortable and uplifting environment.

Overall, the tradition of leaving blinds open and using cozy lights is a cultural expression of finding joy and comfort in the midst of darkness, fostering a sense of community, and celebrating the beauty of winter nights.

Source: Some or all of the content was generated using an AI language model