Immerse yourself in the serene beauty of nature through Slow TV, a revolutionary movement that brings us closer to the majesty of the natural world.
The Calming Power of Slow TV: A Window into Nature’s Majesty
Nature and Environment
EuropeHow Slow TV brings us closer to nature
Ida Ovesson
Published 05/02/2025
Published May 2, 2025
last updated 05/03/2025
last updated May 3, 2025
The term ‘Slow TV‘ has become synonymous with the art of unwinding and reconnecting with nature. This phenomenon, which originated in Norway, has been gaining momentum worldwide, captivating audiences with its serene and uneventful yet deeply engaging content.
Slow TV is a television programming concept that originated in Norway.
It involves broadcasting continuous, unedited footage of mundane activities such as train journeys, knitting, or fishing.
The goal is to provide a calming and relaxing viewing experience for audiences.
Slow TV often features slow-paced events like the arrival and departure of trains at stations, allowing viewers to unwind and observe the details of everyday life.
The Origins of Slow TV
The concept of Slow TV dates back to 2009 when the Norwegian Broadcasting Corporation (NRK) aired a seven-hour train journey. This pioneering effort marked the beginning of an unprecedented movement that would eventually spread to other countries, including Sweden, where the Swedish Television network (SVT) introduced the non-stop three-week livestream called the ‘Great Elk Trek.’
A Window into Nature’s Majesty
The Great Elk Trek offers a unique opportunity for viewers to witness the majestic beauty of nature in real-time. Thirty-two cameras deployed in the forests of northern Sweden provide an intimate view of serene landscapes and, on rare occasions, an elk crossing a river. The livestream has become an annual viewing tradition for some, with millions of viewers tuning in each year.
The Great Elk Trek is a migratory route used by the Rocky Mountain elk, covering over 500 miles from Canada to Montana.
This annual journey takes place between September and November, with elk traveling in large herds.
The trek is essential for their survival, allowing them to find food, water, and suitable habitats.
Historically, the Great Elk Trek was a significant event, with thousands of elk participating.
Today, conservation efforts aim to protect this vital migration route.
From Relaxation to Climate Awareness
Slow TV is often praised for its positive effect on well-being, but experts argue that its impact can extend beyond relaxation. Johan Erhag, project manager for the Great Elk Trek, believes that the show fosters a deeper connection with nature and inspires climate-conscious behavior. ‘There is calmness, but still excitement over a longer time,’ he said. ‘You have time to reflect and relax.‘
A Gateway to Climate Awareness
Slow TV about nature has been credited with promoting conservationist attitudes and environmental efforts. Research by Rebecca Mauldin, assistant professor at the University of Texas, found that insights and emotional connections generated by nature-focused livestreams can promote pro-conservation behaviors.
While virtual experiences cannot completely replace real ones, experts acknowledge that Slow TV offers valuable benefits for those who are unable to engage with nature in person. ‘Viewing livestreams is probably not as restorative as physically being in nature,’ Mauldin said. ‘However, it does have similar benefits and can be really valuable for people who are unable to have that physical engagement with nature.‘
Symbolic Significance
The Great Elk Trek also carries symbolic significance, marking the transition from winter to summer and becoming an annual viewing tradition for some. Charlotte Ottilia Campeborn has been following the livestream since its inception and admits she’s become addicted. She finds it ‘soothing‘ and believes that nature provides a sense of comfort and safety in uncertain times.
As the world grapples with climate change, Slow TV offers a timely reminder of the importance of preserving our natural world. By fostering a deeper connection with nature and inspiring climate-conscious behavior, this phenomenon has the potential to make a lasting impact on our collective well-being.
Climate change refers to the long-term warming of the planet due to the increasing levels of greenhouse gases in the Earth's atmosphere.
Human activities such as burning fossil fuels and deforestation contribute significantly to this issue.
Rising temperatures lead to more frequent natural disasters, melting glaciers, and altered ecosystems.
According to NASA, the past four years have been the hottest on record globally, with 2020 being the warmest year since 1880.
Climate change affects not only the environment but also human health, economies, and societies worldwide.
