Eräyksiä

Eräyksiä is a Finnish term that translates to "wildlings," "forest dwellers," or "solitaries" in English. It refers to individuals who choose to live a lifestyle far removed from mainstream society, often in remote wilderness areas. This lifestyle is characterized by self-sufficiency, a deep connection to nature, and a rejection of modern conveniences and social norms.

The concept of eräyksiä is rooted in Finnish culture and history, where the vast forests and sparsely populated regions have always provided opportunities for individuals to live independently. Historically, these individuals might have been hunters, trappers, or hermits seeking solitude. Today, the motivations for adopting an eräyksiä lifestyle can vary, ranging from environmentalism and a desire for a simpler life to a critique of consumerism and urban living.

While not necessarily a formal movement, the idea of eräyksiä resonates with a certain segment of the population who value autonomy and a close relationship with the natural world. These individuals often possess practical skills such as foraging, hunting, building, and preserving food, which are essential for survival in remote environments. They may live in cabins, tents, or other rudimentary shelters and rely on natural resources for their needs. The term eräyksiä emphasizes a deliberate choice to live a life of independence and close communion with the wilderness.