Triin Oselein: The best ideas don´t come to me at desk

Triin Oselein, the CEO of Metsa.ai is a nature enthusiast. For her, quiet and remote hiking trails are a must - either at home in Estonia or abroad. Here´s her take on nature activities (the why and how) in some more details.

Triin, how often do you step into nature?

At least once or twice a week. Honestly, it's something my heart and body simply need - can´t do without!

What´s nature for you - more of a beautiful park in the city or a deep forest somewhere faraway?

For me, nature first of all means deep forests and the seaside of Estonia. As over half of the land is covered in forest, most of us Estonians share an almost instinctive connection to it. I grew up in Northern Estonia, surrounded by forests that stretch right down to the coastline. So my most special places in nature are those where, walking in the middle of the trees, I can also smell the sea. There's something about that combination that feels like home in the deepest sense.

Estonia's sparse population means there are incredible opportunities here, trails and deep forests where you can wander for hours, completely alone, without meeting another person or hearing a hint of city noise. Here, I have the confidence to go off the trails. When abroad, I tend to stick to marked or locally recommended paths as they give me the needed sense of security in an unfamiliar landscape.

Why do you need nature?

Nature and especially the forest is my safe, grounding space. It's where I come back to my balance and peace. It's also my biggest source of inspiration. The brightest thoughts tend to come during the moments of mindless wandering, when my mind is free and not trying to solve anything.

I also deeply enjoy silence and the sounds that nature creates on its own.

Aren´t you afraid of being out there alone?

I´m not afraid exactly, but I do have a deep respect for the wildlife. Wild animals deserve awareness and humility. When a large moose suddenly runs straight at you on a forest path, out of nowhere - happened to me once! - suddenly the home or car can feel very, very far away..:)

Luckily, my truly active and bold English cocker spaniel Kliff usually joins me on my forest walks. A born hunter with a spirit bigger than any moose, he dashes into the woods like he owns the place. I´d like to think he keeps the bears at bay too. Successfully, at least so far.

Is nature more important for your mental or physical fitness?

Honestly, even more for the mental side though physical fitness is also very important to me. Trail running, cycling and long walks through the forest or coastline have become my go-to activities.

A tip: A triathlete friend recently pointed out that running on uneven forest trails with roots and rocks constantly underfoot is super good for your body! That´s because of all those constant small adjustments your body has to make keep building strength and stability with every step.

Any sources of adventure or outdoor inspiration you'd recommend to our readers?

For adventure and wild nature inspiration, one source that truly stays with me is EYOS Expeditions. They pioneer journeys to the most remote, untouched wilderness on Earth. I was lucky enough to join one of their one-month-long expeditions to East Greenland a few years ago, and it was one of the most extraordinary experiences of my life. The way they explore these wild places - with depth and respect - is something I carry with me to this day.

Happy to share more about this adventure soon, so stay tuned! 💚