Congresswoman Bella Abzug introduced the legislation for Women’s Equality Day 40 years ago today, August 26th. In a Huffington Post article today by That Girl’s Marlo Thomas, actress, author and activitist, she suggests that rather than walk for a cure or march for a cause we give ourselves equal time, by doing whatever we need to do to take care of ourselves.
I suggest we take a little time out today to do nothing. In the wisdom of Winnie the Pooh:
“Don’t underestimate the value of Doing Nothing, of just going along, listening to all the things you can’t hear, and not bothering.”
~Pooh’s Little Instruction Book, inspired by A.A. Milne
My post today is on the value of doing nothing. Most of us spend a good proportion of our day servicing something other than ourselves. We work and run errands and assist family, friends and pets. And, if we are lucky, we may get to squeeze in a doctor or haircut appointment for ourselves and interact a bit on Facebook, before turning out the lights to sleep. This is often the extent of the charity that we give to ourselves.
Today, be charitable to yourself. Carve out at least an hour for yourself today to do nothing. I know it’s not much, but it’s a start. At the least, doing nothing rewards us just because we took out time for it. Whether its a nap, watching a mindless TV program, or simply daydreaming, enjoy that you are doing something for you that requires nothing.
Let’s get to you right now. Here are four recommendations for doing nothing.
- Be one with your favorite chair or couch. Do not think or strategize. Just be.
- Watch mindless TV, preferably comedy. Laugh, giggle and enjoy yourself.
- Take a nap.
- Take a walk.
I’m sure many of you have your favorite ways of doing nothing. If you want to share them with me, please leave a comment. Also, if you like my post today, please say so by selecting the Like icon at the bottom of this article. Enjoy doing nothing, if just for a bit. You deserve it.