You might be laughing right now, and that’s okay, you might not have what it takes. I’m only kidding, well, kind of, not really. The reality is that modern-day Vikings do exist, but the upside is that no one needs to worry about their homes being raided or their goods being stolen, at least not from a modern-day Viking. The thing is, Vikings have become popular again over the last several years, with the many different shows that have been featured sparking something in the minds of many people that have felt right, or has been attractive enough to get folks thinking that this is the way to live.
There are ways to live like a modern-day Viking without having to follow the overall tenets of the culture since it might be too much for a lot of people. For instance, don’t bother with the horned helmets, people will only think you’ve gone nuts and besides, Vikings didn’t really wear them. Just think about going into battle and accidentally bumping into someone’s helmet horns, that might be awkward. But while helmets were worn in battle, don’t bother, since again, people will look and laugh, and likely want to test the durability of your helmet with whatever they can find. So let’s get into what can help you behave like a modern-day Viking.
Your State of Mind and Behavior
Vikings weren’t weak people, and they valued such things as bravery, a quick mind, and definitely strength. These were hardened people since from the first light of day to the last, there was always something that needed doing to survive. They lived, played, warred, and created civilizations based on the intelligence that allowed them to figure out how to survive in their surroundings, the bravery to explore new locations, and the strength to take and hold onto what they had. They were brutal when it was needed, and no one is asking you to do be the same. But here are a few ways that you can adjust your behavior and state of mind when it comes to acting like a Viking.
- Take chances, but think before you leap. The use of your intellect can lead to being bold and taking on risks or making choices that you might not have otherwise made. Don’t blunder forward without thinking about the risks and possible gains, but don’t fold if the way ahead offers up a challenge or two. This is the way of the Viking, to be brave in the face of new challenges, but to make certain that you know what you’re getting into.
- Stay in shape. I know, we all hear the weight loss and fitness routines that are spread across the internet like a thick spread of Nutella, but this is your decision, since it’s not likely that all of us are going to be pushing off on a long journey or will have to go out and kill our food and haul it back while fending off other predators. But in the modern era, it’s wise to stay in shape since a sound body helps to keep a sound mind.
- Don’t be afraid to get up and move every once in a while. See the world, not through Google maps but your own eyes. If all you ever see are still images of places you’d like to go, then it’s time to shut down the computer and actually go there to smell, taste, and experience the countryside that awaits. Have the courage to get out and see a few things before that final day. Few, if any, ever sit on their deathbed thinking “I’ve seen enough.” Get your butt up and get out there, seriously.
There’s More, Just Pace Yourself
There’s a lot more to being a modern-day Viking, and if you’re ready to hear it I might just continue forward with this idea. But for now, it’s definitely a good idea to focus on what you’ve read and try to maintain that kind of lifestyle for a bit before you really get into the heart of what it’s like to embrace the Viking lifestyle.
