Helga Synnevåg Løvoll

Helga Synnevåg Løvoll is a Professor specializing in friluftsliv (Norwegian outdoor life) at the University College of Volda. Her work focuses on the intersection of outdoor experiences, well-being, and sustainability. She holds a Ph.D. from the University of Bergen (2016) and has a Master’s in Outdoor Education from the Norwegian School of Sport Sciences (1998). Her research explores positive emotions, awe, and the philosophical dimensions of nature engagement.

Key research themes include: (1) transformative experiences in nature (e.g., tall-ship expeditions for at-risk youth), (2) the role of creativity and aesthetics in well-being, and (3) sustainability through outdoor education. Collaborations involve partners like NTNU and international scholars such as Mark Graves (USA). She has published extensively on flow experiences, eudaimonic well-being, and nature-based interventions.

Her work bridges psychology, environmental studies, and education, emphasizing interdisciplinary approaches. Notable projects include the Windjammer initiative analyzing youth development through sea voyages, and Creative Wellbeing frameworks linking nature/culture to sustainable futures. She contributes to teaching modules on outdoor guiding, health promotion, and nature mediation.