My dear Global Yoga Community,

I always plan on having a day off to not do anything or just the things I feel like doing. But then there is something that I see that needs to be done or something comes up and that day “is taken from me again”. Of course all this comes back to setting boundaries for yourself, self-care, self-love, worthiness, …

I believe that is why it is easier to do nothing or to do what our heart desires when we go on vacation. There we are more likely to open up to new experiences, have other interactions and generally feeling more alive and inspired.
Can we maybe have a little one or two day self-retreats in our home? Approaching it with the same mind-set like going on vacation without needing to pack? 🙂

I started recently to change my language when I talk to myself or to other people.
Instead of saying ‘I have to’, ‘ I need to’, ‘I should’ and replace it with ‘I CHOOSE TO or ‘I DO IT WITH EASE’.
For example, instead of saying “I have to go now “, I say “I choose to go now”. Try it, and see how that feels to you. For me it feels empowering and positive and takes some of the pressure away.

Some of you might be better in taking time for yourself than others. Here are some thoughts about it. I am sure that they are not new to you, but I think a good reminder.

The concept of “The Art Of Doing Nothing” is a profound and often challenging one, especially in a world that values productivity and constant activity. It’s about allowing yourself to simply be, without the need to do, accomplish, or achieve. However, many people find it difficult to truly relax without feeling guilty, restless, or pressured by the endless “to-dos” that linger in the back of their minds.

* * *
Why It’s Hard to Relax?

Cultural Conditioning
Society often equates worth with productivity. From a young age, we’re taught to value hard work and achievement. This conditioning can make doing nothing feel like wasting time or being lazy.

Fear of Falling Behind
The fast pace of modern life, especially with the influence of social media, creates a constant pressure to keep up with others. Whether it’s career achievements, personal milestones, or even leisure activities, there’s a fear of missing out or not being enough.

Internalized Expectations
Over time, external pressures can become internalized, turning into a constant mental checklist. Even in moments meant for rest, these “have-tos” and “need-tos” can intrude, making it difficult to fully unwind.

* * *
Ways to Learn How to Embrace Doing Nothing

Mindfulness Practice
Engaging in mindfulness can help train the mind to focus on the present moment without judgment. This can reduce the guilt and restlessness that often accompany inactivity. Practices like meditation, deep breathing, or simply being aware of your surroundings can anchor you in the now.

Reframing Rest
Rest is not a reward for work well done; it’s a necessity for overall well-being. Just as our bodies need sleep to function, our minds need downtime to reset and recharge. Reframing rest as an essential part of a balanced life can help alleviate the guilt associated with doing nothing.

Setting Boundaries
It’s important to create boundaries around your time and energy. This might mean scheduling time to do nothing or setting limits on work and social obligations. By doing so, you give yourself permission to relax without the weight of external pressures.

Gentle Self-Compassion
Treat yourself with kindness and understanding. Acknowledge that it’s okay to feel guilty or restless but remind yourself that you deserve moments of rest. Over time, this self-compassion can make it easier to let go of the need to constantly be doing something.

* * *
Balancing Productivity and Rest

It’s important to find a balance that works for you. Some people might naturally lean towards being more active and productive, while others might find it easier to relax. The key is to listen to your body and mind, recognize when you need to slow down, and give yourself the grace to do so without guilt. After all, doing nothing can be just as valuable as doing something.

Monday 02.09.
Three Breaths
Flow

Wednesday 04.09.
Feel & Align
Slow Flow

Thursday 05.09.
Open Theme
Yogis Choice

Friday 06.09.
Activating The Second Heart
Flow

Monday 09.09.
Back to the Basics
Slow Flow

Wednesday 11.09.
Back to the Basics
Flow

Thursday 12.09.
Open Theme
Yogis Choice

Friday 13.09.
Back to the Basics
Flow

Monday 16.09.
Magical 108
Meditative Flow

Wednesday 18.09.
Adding-on
Meditative Flow

Thursday 19.09.
Open Theme
Yogis Choice

Friday 20.09.
3-Breaths
Slow Flow

Monday 23.09.
Twisting with Ease
Flow

Wednesday 25.09.
Seated Basics
Slow Flow

Thursday 26.09.
Open Theme
Yogis Choice

Friday 27.09.
Applying the Basics
Flow

Monday 30.09.
Feel the Basics
Slow Flow

Savasana in the end of each yoga class is a great opportunity to practice doing nothing. As Urs says in the end of his classes so beautifully :”Enjoy the time where you don’t have to do anything and no-one wants anything from you”!

Love,

Nicole