What Everyone Ought To Know About "Niksen"
This Week's Simple Tip
What do you think these four pictures have in common?
They all portray ways we can convince our minds we are being "productive," while really being "idle." Staring at clouds, playing with sand, gazing out the window and listening to music are all ways we can escape, relax and even daydream. Called "niksen" which means "doing nothing," the Dutch consciously take time and energy on a regular basis to do "idle activities." They look at it as a way to shift from the constant focus on work, and have proven it successful in reducing stress, and preventing burnout. Today's non-stop lifestyle is having an impact on well-being with instances of burnout, anxiety disorders and stress-related diseases on the rise. Not only is "niksen" helping to combat the problem in The Netherlands, but it also may in part explain why the Dutch ranked #5 on this year's World Happiness Report, compared to the United States in 19th place.
This Week's Focus
Next week I will be taking a break to celebrate our nation's birthday, so no newsletter. Join me in making it a point to spend time each day for "idle activity." As counter-intuitive as it sounds, breaks like this actually more us more productive.
Click on the serenity sticky to print, cut and post on your bathroom mirror to remind you of this week's focus. Good luck!
A Little Helpful Hint
Watching fireworks is a perfect "do nothing" relaxation activity. Perhaps that explains our fascination with them. I have no idea where this video of fireworks was filmed, but enjoy ... this is AWESOME. Happy July 4th - see you in two weeks!
