Niksen is a Dutch word meaning “to do nothing.” This evidence-based practice is increasingly recognized as an effective approach to promote positive mental health. This idea gives people permission to release form, function and results. It invites them to be more present, to engage with now and enjoy just being. Originating from the Netherlands, niksen is an antidote to our always-on life that invites stillness and clears mental clutter.
Angela Williams is a licensed clinical social worker, and a mindset coach. She further describes niksen as a practice where you focus on “not worrying about the end result.” This philosophy fits with the emerging move towards ‘rawdogging’, where the emphasis is not on outcomes but how you go about it. Williams is quick to point out that niksen is meant to allow people to reconnect with their thoughts, feelings and lessons of the day.
When done daily, the art of niksen can have a ton of positive effects, from lowering stress levels to boosting creativity. According to Ruut Veenhoven, a researcher on the subject, “Even when we ‘niks,’ our brain is still processing information and can use the available processing power to solve pending problems.” This indicates that giving the mind the space to be quiet can lead to breakthrough ways of thinking.
To add niksen into your life, Williams suggests beginning with small steps. She suggests beginning with quiet time in the morning, which may involve sitting in silence, sipping coffee, or gazing out the window. This soft start prepares people to the idea of nothing, so it’s not as intimidating right out the gate.
Olga Mecking, an author and expert on niksen, concurs with Williams on the need to give up results. “Imagine learning a new concept but having no time to sit with it, to understand it, or to learn how to apply it in your own life,” Williams explains. By embracing niksen, we give ourselves invaluable time to think more deeply and get to know ourselves better.
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