In the 21st century, we see the world, follow it, and receive information instantly.
But there are places where the sun doesn’t simply rise in the morning and set in the evening.
In these places, the presence or absence of sunlight completely redefines our perception of time.
Where are we talking about?
We’re talking about Longyearbyen, a town in Norway, located on the island of Spitsbergen (in the Svalbard archipelago).
It is the northernmost permanently inhabited settlement in the world.Because it lies within the Arctic Circle, there are periods during the year when the sun never sets, or never rises at all.
What are the Polar Day and Polar Night?
In Longyearbyen:
From May to August: The sun shines 24 hours a day — this is called the Midnight Sun or Polar Day.
From November to January: The sun does not rise at all — this is the Polar Night.
During these times, people struggle to distinguish between day and night — the sky stays either fully bright or completely dark.
Time exists, but it’s not felt
Technically, Longyearbyen follows a time zone.
But in daily life, clocks lose their practical meaning.
People wake and live according to:
Their biological rhythm,
Daily habits,
And work routines.
Examples:
In summer, you might see children playing in parks at 2 AM.
In winter, streetlights stay on even at 1 PM.
How is life managed?
Blackout curtains are used in homes and schools
Light therapy is applied to stabilize the body clock
People take vitamin D supplements
Psychological support services are available to prevent emotional disorders
How does it affect the mind?
People living in polar regions sometimes experience:
Depression during the dark months
Insomnia and disrupted biorhythms during periods of constant daylight
That’s why physical activity, social bonding, nature walks, and a strict sleep schedule become essential parts of daily life.
Interesting facts:
Dying is prohibited in Longyearbyen!
Bodies don’t decompose in permafrost, so there’s no functioning cemetery.
Terminally ill patients are transported to the mainland.Cats are banned
This is to protect rare species of Arctic birds.Under the Svalbard Treaty,
citizens of over 40 countries can come and live here without a visa.
Conclusion
Longyearbyen shows us that time is relative and shaped by the environment.
People here don’t follow the sun — they follow their bodies.
To live here means adapting to nature, adjusting your pace, and strengthening your spirit.Maybe time is not the clock on the wall —
it’s a feeling.
Not the sun — but the light within you.
This is interesting
