The tradi(onal prac(ce of Frilu=sliv fosters a profound, experien(al connec(on with nature. The
University of South-East Norway offers a year-long program dedicated to Frilu=sliv for interna(onal
Physical Educa(on students. The program integrates both theore(cal coursework and outdoor
experien(al learning, including mul(-day expedi(ons, promo(ng opportuni(es for embodied pedagogy.
This ar(cle examines the transforma(ve impact of Frilu=sliv on students' physical literacy,
environmental ethics and behaviour. Students were observed during the year, and at its conclusion were
interrogated through crea(ve focus groups where they discussed and illustrated their most memorable
experiences. The winter expedi(on emerged as a clear highlight. Analysis of interviews and artwork
revealed that the teaching methods used not only enhanced students' skills, knowledge, social
connec(ons, and mo(va(on to engage with nature, thus reinforcing the four pillars of physical literacy,
but it also fostered a significant emo(onal transforma(on. While students ini(ally approached nature
from an anthropocentric perspec(ve, the challenges of the winter trip, in par(cular, helped shiO their
outlook towards a more ecocentric view, deepening their connec(on with the natural environment. This
study highlights the powerful role that experien(al outdoor educa(on can play in cul(va(ng both
physical literacy and environmental stewardship.