The Benefits Of "Doing Nothing"

With all that is going on in the world today, it is not hard to get overwhelmed.As we are constantly bombarded with bad news about the failing economy and environmental disasters,feelings of helplessness begin to pile up, creating a whirlwind of worrisome thoughts, leaving us drained and depressed.If you are feeling run down from constantly being on the move to keep your head above water,try doing nothing, that's right, "do nothing".

Although "doing nothing" may sound simple,it actually requires discipline.We as Americans are not accustomed to "doing nothing", we are obsessed with activity, "I gotta do this...."I gotta go here...."I gotta be there...." I often hear these phrases uttered daily by Americas busy citizens as they hustle and bustle throughout the day."Doing nothing" requires that you take time out of your hectic schedule to sit quietly and witness your thoughts float by like clouds.

Sitting quietly for eight minutes in the morning,then in the evening before you retire for a good nights sleep is a good way to start your daily practice of "doing nothing".Simply pick a time of the morning and evening to find a quiet place to sit comfortably,preferably a place that you dedicate to this practice alone.Once you have picked your place, either sit comfortably in an upright chair, or on the floor on a mat,loosen or remove any uncomfortable clothing,set a timer for eight minutes,and begin to breathe slowly and deeply.You will notice that your mind will be constantly going, going over the events of the day, or something someone said to you that you did not like, or what is due, or was left undone.That is okay, just let those thoughts float on by, do not hang up on them, do not try to control the flow of your thoughts.After eight minutes, slowly open your eyes, do some light stretching,and start your day, or retire to bed, with a refreshed feeling and a clear mind.

You will find that after weeks of taking time out to "do nothing" you will feel less overwhelmed by the drama of life.You may even start to increase your sitting time by one minute increments every few weeks, eventually getting to the point where you can sit for 15-30 minutes.So when you are feeling overwhelmed, take some time out to "do nothing".OM.