How a Swedish coffee break can boost your wellbeing and performance - BBC REEL

Summary

This video introduces the Swedish tradition of fika, a social coffee break that promotes relaxation and connection in the workplace. The hosts discuss the basics of fika, including the coffee or tea choices, and the iconic pastries like cinnamon buns and princess cake. They highlight the importance of fika for fostering a good work environment and creativity. The video also emphasizes the etiquette of fika, such as the proper order of eating pastries, and the social norms around declining fika, stressing that it is generally not acceptable unless for a good reason.

Takeaways

• 😀 Swedish fika is a social tradition, typically involving coffee and pastries, that promotes relaxation and bonding.
• ☕ Coffee is the preferred drink for fika, with cappuccinos being a popular choice in Sweden.
• 🍩 The two most iconic Swedish fika treats are the cinnamon bun and the princess cake.
• 🕒 At workplaces, fika usually happens at 10 AM and 3 PM, but outside of work, you can fika whenever you want.
• 💬 Conversations during fika should avoid controversial topics like politics and religion, focusing instead on lighter subjects.
• 🙋‍♂️ Fika offers a chance to relax and connect with others, fostering creativity and an open environment for communication.
• 🚫 It's considered impolite to decline a fika without a valid reason, especially in a social setting.
• 🍽️ There is a specific order for eating the pastries: start with the least fancy (like a cinnamon bun) and end with the most elaborate (like a princess cake).
• 🧁 New variations of fika treats, like raw bars, chia puddings, and acai bowls, have emerged alongside traditional pastries.
• 🤝 Fika is also about strengthening workplace relationships, creating an environment that supports creativity and collaboration.

Q & A

What is Swedish fika?

Swedish fika is a tradition that involves taking a break with coffee or tea, accompanied by pastries or cakes. It's a moment to relax and socialize.

What is the most common drink during Swedish fika?

Coffee is the most common drink consumed during Swedish fika, although tea can also be an option.

What pastries are typically enjoyed during Swedish fika?

Two popular pastries are the cinnamon bun and the princess cake. These are considered staples of Swedish fika.

When is fika usually held at workplaces in Sweden?

At workplaces, fika typically takes place at 10 a.m. and 3 p.m.

Is it okay to fika outside of work hours?

Yes, outside of work situations, you can fika whenever you want, without any set schedule.

What should you avoid discussing during fika when you don't know someone well?

It is recommended to avoid discussing politics or religion when you don't know someone well. The conversation should remain light and casual.

What happens if you decline a fika without a good reason?

Declining a fika without a good reason is generally frowned upon, as fika is an important social tradition.

What are some modern alternatives to traditional fika pastries?

Some modern alternatives include raw bars, acai bowls, chia puddings, overnight oats, and fruit salads. These variations bring more diversity to the fika experience.

What is the traditional order of eating pastries during Swedish fika?

The traditional order is to start with the least fancy pastry, like the cinnamon bun, then move on to smaller cookies, and finish with the most fancy pastry, such as the princess cake.

Can you start with the princess cake during fika?

It is not traditional to start with the princess cake. Swedish fika follows an order, beginning with simpler pastries like the cinnamon bun and ending with the fancier pastries.