After a wonderfully lazy holiday break, I realized how much I enjoyed simply doing nothing. My family and I spent quality time together, unhurried and relaxed. We exchanged gifts, indulged in festive treats, and watched a few movies, but what truly stood out was the sheer joy of having moments where we just sat and stared into space. It was liberating!
However, I found myself constantly feeling guilty about my idleness. Thoughts would creep in: Shouldn’t I be cleaning the kitchen? Maybe I should call a friend or plan for the upcoming week? I even encouraged my children to engage in activities like board games or cookie baking, while all they really wanted was to lounge on the couch playing video games or chatting. Once we settled into this rhythm of doing nothing, we surprisingly became very good at it!
As the break wrapped up, I stumbled upon a concept that perfectly encapsulated our experience: niksen. This Dutch term translates to “doing nothing” and aligns with other Nordic concepts like hygge—the art of cozy living—and lagom, which promotes balance in life. These ideas suggest that simplifying our lives can lead to greater happiness and well-being.
Niksen is refreshingly uncomplicated. Unlike meditation, which requires focused breathing and thought control, niksen invites you to simply be. You can sit or stand still, allowing your mind to wander freely. Megan Greene, a mental health professional, often recommends niksen to clients who struggle with traditional mindfulness practices. “For many, the pressure to control thoughts makes meditation difficult,” she explains. “Niksen provides a way to unwind without rigid expectations.”
While niksen has no strict rules, it’s best practiced intentionally. Productivity expert Eric Johnson suggests that incorporating short niksen breaks can enhance focus and creativity, especially during those moments when tasks feel tedious or overwhelming. “When we’re fatigued, our productivity suffers,” he notes.
Author and niksen advocate, Clara Martin, emphasizes that this practice is essential for mental and physical health. Our fast-paced culture often neglects the importance of stillness, which can negatively affect our overall well-being. She argues that our reliance on smartphones only exacerbates this issue. How often do we think we’re taking a break, only to find ourselves scrolling through our devices instead? Guilty as charged!
Martin suggests that introducing niksen into our routines can help us resist the urge to constantly stay connected. “If we can learn to embrace stillness, we might not feel the need to fill our time with distractions,” she says.
For parents, finding time to niksen amidst the chaos can seem impossible. The beauty of this practice is that it has no rigid structure. You can embrace niksen while waiting for your child to drift off to sleep, during those late-night rockings, or even in the carpool line. Invite your kids to join you in a mini niksen session—see how they react when you suggest everyone take ten minutes to just relax. It may lead to some interesting moments, and kids often excel at simply being present when the mood strikes them right.
By modeling niksen, you can teach your children the value of taking a break. “It’s crucial for kids to see their parents embracing moments of stillness,” Martin advises. “This normalizes the practice and encourages them to do the same.”
Ultimately, what I appreciate most about niksen is its lack of pressure. There’s no right or wrong way to do it. If you find yourself lounging on the couch daydreaming, you’re not being lazy—you’re engaging in something that is actually beneficial for your health.
For more insights on parenting and relaxation techniques, check out this article on home insemination and explore fertility supplements for those considering starting a family. Additionally, you can find valuable information about pregnancy at NICHD.
Summary
Embracing the Dutch concept of niksen—doing nothing—can enhance our well-being and productivity. It encourages us to take breaks from our busy lives, allowing us to recharge and enjoy simple moments. Parents can model this practice for their kids, fostering a culture of relaxation and mindfulness.
Keyphrase: niksen concept
Tags: [“home insemination kit”, “home insemination syringe”, “self insemination”]