The third annual Finnish Arctic Tree Hugging Championship took place on August 20, in Levi, Kittilä, Lapland.
The competition is a fun way to draw attention to nature and to the fact that trees and forests, and nature in general, can really bring well-being to your life and help you feel better when you are stressed.
There are three main events:
Speedhugging: In a clearly marked area, hug as many trees as possible in one minute, with each hug lasting at least five seconds.
Dedication: The most creative hug of a specific tree chosen by the participant, for a maximum of one minute.
Freestyle: The most creative hug. The style is open to the competitor's own interpretation, one tree only, for a maximum of one minute.
The 2022 World Champion Tree Hugger is Ms Ani Lankila (wearing a bear costume). She is originally from Helsinki in southern Finland, but now lives in Levi.
