‘Niksen’, or the subtle art of doing nothing

"Slow down. Forget what happens next. Give yourself a little bit of time to simply....BE"

Pottering, mooching, bimbling about, staring into space....when was the last time you stopped the treadmill of constant to do lists and rushing around, and took the time to 'simply be'? Easier said than done, I know; but maybe it's worth taking a moment to consider the benefits of the subtle art of doing nothing.

The Dutch have perfected the practice of doing nothing, or 'niksen', so well, that they are some of the happiest people on earth. However, 'doing nothing' is not about doom scrolling on your phone, or spending hours playing computer games. Nor is it mindfulness or meditation, although the effects on the mind and body are similar.

The practice of niksen is simple, and can be incorporated easily into everyday life, even on the busiest of days. But the key to it is: don't overthink!

Try to set aside a few minutes, take a few deep breaths, and let your mind wander. Leave the distractions of mobile phones behind, and just focus on something that your mind drifts towards. It may be the sound of rain against the windowpane, or the steam rising off a cup of freshly brewed coffee. You may by drawn to a cloud floating across the sky, or the passers by who walk past your window. It doesn't matter what your mind lands upon, and that's kind of the point - just go with it. Let it wander, and concentrate on the nothingness of birds singing, or a breeze blowing the branches of a tree.

And as for the science behind it? Regularly 'doing nothing' makes us healthier and happier, and turns on the creativity centres in our brains. In one study, people experiencing burnout and work stress reported increased happiness and decreased stress when they practised niksen regularly.

So put down your phone, take a few deep breaths, and look outside your window. Let your mind 'have a breather' for a few moments. Just like your physical body, your mind needs a regular rest too.

And at Rise&Bloom, we are here to help you explore this, and many other ways of nurturing your mind, body and soul.

Love

Zoë

Rise&Bloom