The essence and protector of nature

In a time when sustainability and nature conservation are more important than ever, the old myths and creatures from Jämtland and Härjedalen have taken on new meaning. Creatures like the forest raven, the white-tailed deer and the Näcken remind us of the importance of respecting nature and living in balance with it. By reconnecting with these stories, we can not only protect our history, but also inspire a more sustainable future.

The essence's message about sustainability

The stories of beings are full of lessons about how to treat nature with respect and care.

The forest ranger as protector of the forest

The forest lair represents the soul of the forest and its demands for respect. In the stories, she helps hunters who follow the rules of the forest, but punishes those who break them. This message is just as relevant today.

"The forest gives us life, but it demands respect in return," says a local storyteller who shares the legends of the forest during guided tours in Härjedalen.

Vittran and the importance of borders

Vittran taught people to respect other people's lands and resources, an important lesson in today's sustainability thinking.

"If we see nature as something we share with invisible neighbors, maybe we will treat it with greater care," reflects a conservationist in Jämtland.

Ecotourism and myths

Jämtland and Härjedalen have long been pioneers in sustainable tourism, and myths play a role in this.

• Sustainable experiences: By telling stories about creatures like the forest raven and the raven, tourists can be inspired to treat nature with greater respect.
• Local identity: The myths reinforce the region's character as a place where nature and culture go hand in hand.

"We use stories about Näcken and the white-tailed deer to convey the importance of leaving nature untouched," says a guide from Sonfjället National Park.

What we can learn from myths

By reconnecting with folk beliefs, we can find inspiration to create a more sustainable relationship with nature.

Live in balance

Just like the dual nature of creatures – helpful if treated with respect, dangerous if ignored – nature reminds us that balance is crucial. Overuse resources, and we risk nature’s wrath.

"The forest roar scared us to think – and we still should," says a local storyteller.

Respect the invisible

Vittran taught us to show respect for what we cannot see. Today, this can be interpreted as taking into account the long-term effects of our actions.

"If we start seeing nature as something living, maybe we'll stop treating it as a resource to consume," says a sustainability researcher.

Explore the region's myths in a sustainable way

Here are some tips for experiencing the myths of Jämtland and Härjedalen while respecting nature:

• Follow marked trails: Avoid disturbing animal and plant life by sticking to designated paths.
• Leave no trace: Take all trash with you and leave the place as you found it – or better.
• Listen to local stories: By participating in guided tours or listening to local storytellers, you can learn more about the region's history and myths.

Termination

The myths of creatures like the forest raven, the white-tailed deer, and the raven are more than just stories—they are reminders of how we can live in harmony with nature. By returning to these ancient teachings, we can create a future that both honors our history and protects our world.

Sources and references

1. Holm Bull, Ella. Sami tales and legends .
2. Schefferus, Johannes. Lapland (1673).
3. Swedish Sami National Federation, material about Sami traditions.
4. The region's documentation of folk beliefs in Härjedalen and Jämtland.