Friday
Feb112011

Doing Nothing…….An Art?

Certainly the Italians, namely, and many other less rat-raced centric cultures would passionately affirm, “Yes!” So would the troves of locals and voyages alike who can be found languishing over splendid scenery, beautiful bites and delightful drinks in the region of Northern California known as the “Wine Country.” For those of you who are ‘in the know,’ attempting to sum up the incalculable bounty of the land is fool hardy at best, inflated at worst. So this little commentary is not an ‘attempt,’ just an endorsement of unplugging and simply being. Disengaging from life’s demands, responsibilities and medias can be extremely potent and beneficial when you’ve got the ratio right. The expression, “work hard, play hard,” comes to mind. But what if playing didn’t have to be “hard,” per se, but rather, relaxed and easy?

I am fortunate enough to be just a stone’s throw away from a place that inspires just that, yes, you guess it, the Wine Country in NorCal. After spending one blissful afternoon there with the best companion anyone could ask for, I not only recharged my batteries, but was moved to encourage you to take a break, zone out and just kick back.

Of course, nature can inspire us to be in a suspended state of awe, so get outside (yes, that means you’ll have to leave this very computer that you might have a deep and affectionate relationship with – after you read my post of course;) and let your surroundings calm you and replenish your well. Even if you don’t have a nearby haven like the coast, forest, park or patio for instance, create one. Designate a space where you can just ‘be’ and calm your mind. This “down time,” is imperative to keep us feeling in balance when we are in full guns blazing mode balancing all of life’s great gifts. I promise, with the fresh perspective this ‘doing nothing,’ time will no doubt foster, you’ll be ready to face your next work week in good, cheerful spirits. Speaking of spirits, cheers!