As the calendar quietly turns from February to March in North Dakota, it can feel like a collective exhale. The days stretch a little longer, moment by moment. The air still has a bite, but it’s more tolerable now because we know there’s an end in sight. That deep winter urge to stay tucked inside loosens its grip, just enough to let curiosity back in.
Around these parts, and especially here in Minot, we’ve always carried a quiet Nordic way of life with us, whether we realize it or not. Our history, our climate, and our instincts reflect it. Long winters shaped by resilience, practicality, and community don’t ask us to wait for perfect conditions, but instead to live well within them.
That Nordic mindset isn’t about pushing through winter or pretending it’s easy, it’s about adapting and finding warmth and connection within the season we’re in instead of fighting it. It’s choosing movement over stagnation, light over isolation, and small daily rituals over the long winter doldrums. As we all get into this time of the season, it is common to feel a bit of blasé, but here are a few ways to combat it and feel good about the season with a touch of Nordic inspiration.
In Nordic cultures, one of the most beloved winter practices is Fika (pronounced fee ka), a purposeful pause for coffee, conversation, and connection. Fika isn’t rushed and it isn’t extravagant. It’s a reason to step outside, even when it’s cold, knowing warmth and familiarity are waiting on the other side of the door. A stop at Prairie Sky Breads, Margie’s, or Cookies for You for a coffee and a chat with a friend will make you feel a sense of Fika in no time. You don’t have to linger long; the pause itself is the point.
There’s also Friluftsliv (pronounced free loofts liv), the belief that fresh air and movement, even in small doses, are essential to well-being. Friluftsliv doesn’t require a hike or ideal weather. Walking a block or two between downtown shops, feeling the cold air wake you up, and letting winter daylight reach your eyes absolutely counts. Downtown Minot’s compact layout makes this kind of movement accessible, even on the chilliest days. A skate or ice bumper car ride at Citizen’s Alley will bring a moment of Friluftsliv into your day in a unique and memorable way, too.
Then there’s Hygge (pronounced hoo ga), often misunderstood as staying inside with blankets and candles. Hygge is really about creating comfort wherever you are. It’s warm mittens, good boots, and stepping into a welcoming space after a brisk walk. It’s the contrast between cold sidewalks and warm interiors that makes winter outings feel grounding instead of inconvenient. A pair of mittens from Koselig at 106, a new jacket from Weekender or Mainstream Boutique, or a cozy throw from The Foundry can get you feeling Hygge in no time.
And finally, Lagom (pronounced lah-gom), the idea of “just enough.” Winter errands downtown don’t need to be all or nothing. A 10–15 minute loop is enough for movement, connection, and that feeling of the sun on your face to show us that spring is coming. Pick up a new gadget from Gourmet Chef or a vintage item from Downtown Antique Mall, Central Avenue Variety, or Robyn’s Place and you can bring some cozy into your own home.
As late winter gives way to early March, getting around downtown Minot doesn’t have to be about enduring the season. Through a Nordic lens, it becomes a way to stay engaged with it. Every short walk, intentional stop, or simple ritual carries us forward and allows us a time of connection with those around us. A simple smile from a shop owner can change an entire day and a friendly conversation can make a person feel a little more a part of a community, even on the coldest of days.
Spring will arrive soon enough. Until then, downtown offers a way to live well right where we are.
