The Dutch Art of Doing Nothing & the Norwegian Love for Nature

First, there was hygge, the Danish concept of mindful, comfortable conviviality – think warm fires, fuzzy slippers and overall contentment. Now, two similar concepts, from the Dutch and the Norwegians, respectively, are gaining traction: niksen and friluftsliv.

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The Dutch art of niksen is the mindful practice of doing nothing… with intention. To truly do nothing but experience your own existence is deceptively difficult, but, once mastered, the benefits are impressive. Studies link meditation practices like niksen to a greater ability to let go of negative self-thought, enhanced cognitive ability and more attentiveness. Olga Mecking, author of best seller Niksen: Embracing the Dutch Art of Doing Nothing, tells