Have you heard of Friluftsliv? It’s the Scandinavian term for “open-air living,” a way to enjoy the outdoors whatever the weather. While it doesn’t come naturally for everyone, outdoor activity is exactly what’s needed to stay healthy, balanced, and connected – especially right now. Fortunately, with mountains and ocean nearby, North Vancouverites have abundant options for outdoor recreation. Here are a few ideas to get you out the door. 

Intention versus resolution
Even in the best of times new year’s resolutions rarely stick. Statistics show that 80% of resolutions are abandoned by mid-February. Studies suggest we often set ourselves up for failure when we set overly ambitious or unrealistic goals. 

Fascinating solstice traditions from around the world

In a culturally diverse country like Canada, I am grateful to be able to live in a community that values diversity, equity and inclusivity. Not only is it vital that we appreciate one another’s traditions, it is also enriching to learn about the different ways we celebrate this time of year. 

Operating on the traditional, unceded territory of the Coast Salish peoples – the Skwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw  (Squamish), səl̓ílwətaʔɬ/Selilwitulh (Tsleil Waututh) Nations and xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam) First Nations, Impact North Shore also works to address intersecting issues of racism and colonialism, and build positive relationships between immigrant settlers and Indigenous peoples. Ultimately the driving vision behind Impact North Shore is a more equitable, inclusive community where everyone can thrive.

Who belongs?

As a transgender person, the question I am often asked is: “How do you tell who belongs in a change room?” 

My response is: Privacy is paramount in a change room. But, for some reason, transgender people’s bodies are a topic of discussion in change rooms, washrooms, and recreational facilities. Why are we looking at other people in a change room in the first place? 

After a 35-year career as a clinical and research psychiatrist, Pierre Leichner became a full-time artist. Incorporating a fascination with both science and art, he bridges the two in innovative ways, from painted doors that study gravitational forces to art installations that reuse waste materials. A passionate social activist, he also facilitates engaged art in the community. Read on for Pierre’s free workshops in North Vancouver this fall! 

More recently, that love is on display figuratively and literally with a collaborative community art installation at the Lynn Valley Library.  The Lynn Valley Community Healing Project, supported by the North Vancouver District Pubic Library(NVDPL)  and North Vancouver Recreation and Culture (NVRC) provided a unique opportunity for individuals to express their love by cross-stitching a felt “X” on fabric squares that have been joined together to form the giant letters L O V E now on display across from the entrance to the Lynn Valley Library.

As we slowly re-emerge from the pandemic crisis, it is fitting to acknowledge and appreciate our public parks. As difficult as the last year has been, it would have been so much worse without our parks, trails and greenways. Our local parks are where we can exercise, relax, gather safely with others, connect to nature and heal. Celebrate our outdoor spaces this June and check out some excellent NVRC outdoor programs this summer!

June is National Indigenous History Month. As a settler, I have a lot to learn about the true history of Canada, to honour the rich diversity of First Nations, their strength through enormous sufferings, and celebrate their cultures and achievements. So, it was a privilege and a treat to attend the Kw’shétsut Indigenous Knowledge Sharing Workshop and spend time with Squamish Elder Sam Seward. Not only is Sam full of stories from his Squamish and Snuneymexw heritage, he has much joy and wisdom to share.

While many of us consider the outdoors an open and welcoming space to recreate, for some it is not that easy. Certain members of our community, such as new immigrants, refugees, racialized and marginalized groups, often face cultural, financial and skills barriers to being able to enjoy the outdoors. Colour The Trails aims to change all that by removing barriers for Black, Indigenous, racialized and LGBTQ2+ members of our community, so that the great outdoors can feel safe and truly inclusive for everyone.