Healthcare

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https://www.forbes.com/sites/bernardmarr/2023/10/03/the-10-biggest-trends-revolutionizing-healthcare-in-2024/

In every culture, we have different beliefs about health. A few main perspectives tend to be followed, such as holistic, medical, supernatural, and religious.

Iceland is considered one of the healthiest countries in Europe, where medical and holistic approaches are the most common. Icelanders believe that their diet, lifestyle, and use of medicine are crucial to living a happy and healthy life. They prioritize simple, nutrient-rich foods, with favorites like skyr and other Nordic dishes. The Icelandic Provisions discovered that skyr helps to control body weight, regulate blood sugar, and promote bone and heart health. Additionally, Icelanders enjoy spending time outdoors, as engaging in outdoor activities is viewed as an effective way to care for both physical and mental health. The smaller size of the country made relationships between the citizens tighter, and socializing is an essential aspect of wellness. For example, participation in clubs and other group activities is considered the best solution.

Traditional Icelandic cemetery
https://images.app.goo.gl/ojrTYBNiRnin7aJ47

Silke Schurack in her work “Burial Practice in Contemporary Iceland: Tradition and Conflict” talks about how Burian practices look, and why there is a conflict between traditions and culture. In Iceland, burial costumes were shaped by Christian traditions from the medieval period. Their graves were modest, without any major decorations, which was related to Protestantism. Traditionally, Icelanders preferred burial over cremation due to their cultural connection to the land. Moreover, burial in church cemeteries is important for social and family ties. 

Recently, we have noticed a significant change in burial. Cremation has gained significant popularity due to European culture. Due to limits on burial space, especially in urban areas, a more ecological approach, and changes in the perception of religious funerals, cremation is considered a better option. It is said that it is more ecological and graves can occupy smaller areas in cemeteries. This is especially practiced in Reykjavik, where there is a significant Icelandic population. Moreover, due to environmental protection, green burials are becoming more and more popular among Icelanders. They aim to minimize the negative impact on the environment. They avoid embalming fluids and opt for biodegradable caskets.

An interesting aspect of Icelandic tradition is how announcements of deaths are made. Such announcements are typically published in national newspapers and during wakes.

Before the funeral, there is a tradition called Kistulagning "coffin-laying". It is an event for the closest relatives where the body is displayed in a coffin, often with a curtain covering the deceased's face. The family gathers to show their respect for the deceased. It is also the last time they can see the deceased person before the coffin is closed.

After the deceased is buried, wreaths, flowers, and a wooden cross are placed on his grave.

An old Icelandic belief is that the person who is buried first in a new cemetery will not rot, but will become the guardian of the cemetery and will watch over all those buried there. Additionally, there are myths about undead creatures from the sagas known as Afturganga. It was believed that corpses should be treated in a special way, nails were driven into the sole of the corpse's foot to prevent the dead from waking up and scaring living people.

Afturganga - a spirit of a deceased person who returns to the realm of the living
https://images.app.goo.gl/mmeE9wVyed37Rh299


If my friend got a job in a non-governmental organization, doing healthcare-related work in Iceland, I would recommend that they read my previous posts, which cover various topics related to Icelandic society. So far, I have published ten posts on these subjects. I would also advise him to be honest and direct, as these traits are highly valued in Iceland and would help him gain respect and trust. Additionally, it’s important to understand that personal space, minimal physical contact compared to American norms, and eye contact are significant elements of respect and interest in social interactions. Lastly, physical appearance and attire are valued, especially at higher levels of employment.

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