Such a simple art form but very complicated to master. Let's talk about it!
The idea of #rest and #selfpreservation isn't a new topic for us here at The Lotus Gathering. Read our call to action to reclaim the word rest for the mind. We take it seriously around these parts!
It's time to reclaim our third cousin, twice removed.
Traditionally, art is classified in seven forms, painting, architecture, sculpture, literature, music, performing and cinema. These arts are respected, revered and recognized around the world but I want to talk about another form of art, the outcast of the family, the lesser known, unpopular, and highly polarizing; art of doing nothing.
The art of doing is nothing is a mental and physical art. We love duality here at #TLG.
The art of doing nothing, is in our definition, a reset for the physical that starts with you giving yourself permission, mentally. Mastering purposeful, rejuvenating, restorative rest is an art form that is intentional because doing nothing makes you move past mental and physical barriers that block, true rest. Get out of your head right now! The thought, that if you don't finish everything on your to-do list or you forget to call someone back, yada yada! That you're somehow lazy, unproductive, or all this other bullshit because it simply isn't true. Look, women, we must learn to cut our selves slack, and it starts with knowing when you need a reset and to simply reclaim your time.
When the renowned American Artist, Kehinde Wiley, begins a painting he starts with a layered idea that develops and evolves into a masterpiece. Let's discuss the art of doing nothing in layers.
Master the purpose-led, rejuvenating, and essential art form of doing nothing.
Layer One
The art of doing nothing starts with a conscious thought that requires awareness and then permission. You have to be aware and acknowledge what your body is communicating and be willing to listen.
Layer Two
Carve out time. Give your self time to be present. Block your calendar. Go in the closet away from the kids. Whatever time you can siphon away. Honor it and be intentional about being present and not feeling bad about much needed rest, at all.
Layer Three
Get out of your head. Get out of your head. Get out of your head. Deep breaths. Close your eyes. Listen to your body. Just BE.
Layer Four
Not for one second. Not even one! Are you allowed to feel bad, guilty, embarrassed, or ashamed. You deserve this sis, rest.
After reading this, I hope you are feeling a wave of calm flood your body. I hope you acknowledge that feeling, that need, and leap without reservation. I hope that the deep and intentional peace that comes with not giving a f*ck anymore, sweeps over you.
Than and only than, have you become a true master of the art of doing nothing.
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