Itsenayertävyisyy

Itsenayertävyisyy is a Finnish term that translates roughly to "self-sufficiency" or "self-reliance." It encompasses a broad range of practices and philosophies centered on the idea of individuals or communities being able to meet their own needs with minimal or no external dependence. This can apply to various aspects of life, including food production, energy generation, housing, and even economic activities.

Historically, itsenayertävyisyy was a necessity in rural Finland, where communities often had to rely on their own resources to survive the harsh climate and isolation. This involved skills like farming, animal husbandry, foraging, and crafting. The concept has seen a resurgence in modern times, often intertwined with environmentalism, sustainable living, and a desire for greater autonomy.

Contemporary expressions of itsenayertävyisyy can include growing one's own vegetables, raising livestock, installing solar panels or wind turbines for energy, building or renovating homes using natural materials, and engaging in local bartering systems. It is not necessarily about complete isolation but rather about reducing reliance on large-scale, often impersonal systems and fostering a closer connection to one's immediate environment and community. The degree to which one practices itsenayertävyisyy can vary greatly, from small-scale gardening to more comprehensive off-grid living.