Niksen: The Art of Doing Nothing

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Niksen is a Dutch word that translates as "to do nothing". It can also mean "to do nothing of use" or "to be idle". It's a concept that urges you to slow down and appreciate the moments when you don't have to do anything in particular. It's a time for rest and possibly reflection—a break from the usual hurried life.

Credits: fufoo

Doing nothing and having nothing to do are two entirely different things. One is a conscious effort to achieve nothing—just aiming to relax and take a breather. The other is simply running out of things on your to-do list. You can actually benefit from doing nothing of particular importance by having time for your own thoughts. No alarms going off or reminders about meetings. No rushing off from one appointment to the next.

Credits: kneehigh85, blueskyandhardrock & clownshoes

It's just you taking some time off to let your mind wander. It's a process that can unclutter your mind and more importantly give you much-needed time off. Your mind and body need time to recuperate from the sensory overload.

Credits: blueskyandhardrock, massimiliano-panigutti, dop, steamtug1959 & endorphin

We can probably learn a thing or two from the Dutch. Often we feel the need to do something with our time and creative energy. It can sometimes even seem as if we HAVE to be creative so as to not stagnate. But it's okay to unplug every once in a while.

Taking a break doesn't mean you're lazy. Let these photos from the community show you what it's like to achieve nothing and still be important. Productivity isn't everything.

So just let your hair down and do nothing. Take a moment or two. The world can wait just a little bit longer.


How about you? Have you tried the niksen concept? Share your favorite niksen-inspired photos in the comments section below!

written by cheeo on 2022-09-29 #culture #reflection #relaxation #rest #niksen #to-do-nothing #danish-concept

One Comment

  1. juusie
    juusie ·

    I thought this was just a Dutch thing (exact same word), glad the Danish figured it out too!

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