In our previous post, we introduced a wellbeing-friendly philosophy/way of life to our readers: Niksen, the Dutch Art of Doing Nothing. This article serves as a practical follow-up to adopt Niksen, offering bite-sized tips to help you take the first steps towards your personal wellbeing journey.

Integrating Niksen into your life can be a delightful journey towards greater peace and well-being. Here are some practical steps to help you embrace the Dutch art of doing nothing:

1. Start Small

Begin with short periods of doing nothing. Even just 5-10 minutes a day can make a difference. Find a quiet spot, sit down, and simply let yourself be without any distractions. Gradually, you can increase the time as you become more comfortable with inactivity.

2. Schedule Niksen Time

In our busy schedules, what isn’t planned often doesn’t happen. Schedule time for Niksen just as you would for any other important activity. By marking it on your calendar, you’re more likely to commit to practicing it regularly.

3. Create a Niksen-friendly Environment

Identify a space in your home where you can comfortably do nothing. This could be a cozy corner with a comfortable chair facing a window, a spot in your garden, or any place that feels peaceful to you. The idea is to have a go-to spot for your Niksen practice.

4. Embrace Boredom

In today’s society, boredom is often seen negatively. However, boredom can be the starting point for creativity and introspection. When practicing Niksen, allow yourself to feel bored. It’s in these moments that your mind can wander freely and come up with the most creative ideas.

5. Disconnect from Digital Distractions

To truly do nothing, it’s crucial to disconnect from your phone, computer, and other electronic devices. These are constant sources of distraction and often prevent us from fully embracing idleness. Set your devices aside or in another room during your Niksen time.

6. Be Kind to Yourself

It’s normal to feel restless or guilty when you first start practicing Niksen, especially if you’re used to being constantly busy. Be patient and kind to yourself as you adjust to this new practice. Remember, doing nothing is not lazy; it’s an act of self-care.

7. Use Transitions for Niksen

Find moments throughout your day that naturally lend themselves to doing nothing, such as the few minutes you might spend waiting for your coffee to brew or the time spent on public transportation. Instead of filling these moments with phone scrolling or thinking about your to-do list, just let yourself be.

8. Listen to Your Body

Pay attention to your body’s signals. Sometimes, the best way to practice Niksen is simply by taking a nap or staring out the window. Your body will often guide you towards the most restorative form of doing nothing.

9. Reflect on Your Experience

After practicing Niksen, take a moment to reflect on how it felt. Did you notice any changes in your stress levels, creativity, or overall mood? Reflecting on the benefits can motivate you to continue integrating Niksen into your life.

10. Share the Joy

Sharing the concept of Niksen with friends and family can not only help normalize the practice but also create a supportive community around the idea of valuing rest and idleness.

By integrating Niksen into your life, you’re taking a powerful step towards improving your mental health, boosting your creativity, and finding a deeper sense of contentment. Remember, the goal of Niksen is not to achieve anything but to simply allow yourself the space and freedom to just be.