Mental Kitchen

In this hyperconnected, hyperproductive world, we often find ourselves caught in the clutches of endless to-do lists. But fear not, dear creatives, for Niksen offers a momentary escape. Niksen is a Dutch concept translating to “doing nothing”. We need to embrace the art of idleness! Take a break from the warp-speed of life and allow your mind to wander freely. Sit back, relax, and let the celestial winds of inspiration gently caress your weary soul.

Gazing into the Abyss of Imagination

Niksen invites us to stare into the void of our imagination without fear of having a well-defined purpose. Cast your gaze into the vast expanse of nothingness. Dormant ideas will soon awaken from your slumbering brain. 

This isn’t some sort of layabout laziness. Niksen encourages you to sit quietly, daydream, gaze out of a window, or take a leisurely stroll. Let your thoughts meander like a bewildered hitchhiker. This allows you to pause, recharge, and mentally declutter.

Discover Your Inner Magellan

Embracing Niksen is not limited to simply doing nothing; it is an art form to be savored. Picture yourself seated in a cozy café, sipping tea or a cappuccino, contemplating the frothy depths of your cup. In this moment, time slows to a crawl, and you attune to the symphony of existence. 

Niksen is rooted in the Dutch culture’s emphasis on work-life balance and the idea that taking breaks and creating space for relaxation can enhance overall productivity. By allowing yourself the luxury of a mindful pause, your brain is freed to explore. Niksen is your compass to uncharted territories. Let your mind meander through the tangled wilderness of your imagination. Who knows what you might discover.

Five Ways to Do Nothing

Creativity thrives on the delicate balance of activity and idleness. Niksen offers us a chance to embrace the downside of our brain. When you first allow yourself to do nothing, expect to feel guilty. After all, we’ve been programmed by society to keep working and producing. Here are five ways to relax and do nothing.

Digital Detox: Set aside a designated period of time, whether it’s 15 minutes or an hour, to disconnect from digital devices. Put away your smartphone, turn off notifications. Use this time to sit quietly or take a leisurely walk. Let your mind unwind and be present in the moment.

Mindful Observation: Find a comfortable spot, maybe in nature or near a window, and engage in mindful observation. Observe your surroundings without judgment or analysis. Notice the colors, shapes, and movements around you. Try a little birdwatching. Focus on the sensations of the present moment, such as the warmth of sunlight or the gentle breeze. Allow your mind to wander freely without trying to control or direct your thoughts.

Quiet Reading: There’s a reason books have survived well into the Internet age. Set aside time solely for reading without any distractions. Immerse yourself in the words, characters, and stories, letting your mind wander into the imaginative realms created by the author. Embrace the joy of getting lost in a good book.

Slow and Mindful Movement: Engage in a physical activity that encourages slow, deliberate movements. This can be yoga, tai chi, or even a simple stretching routine. Pay close attention to your body as you move, focusing on the sensations and the flow of energy within. Allow the movements to be gentle and unhurried, creating a sense of calm and presence in the present moment.

Go on Auto-Pilot: Carve out time in your day to do a mindless activity. Anything where you can work without thinking, such as knitting, washing dishes, or even cleaning. The most important thing is to be able to accomplish this without thinking about it.

Let Your Mind Wander

Niksen beckons you to step off the treadmill of productivity and embrace the stillness of nothingness. Within us all lies the power to ignite the embers of your imagination. 

Tim Kane