Define your nothing

Spring break might be the most genius and necessary idea anyone ever thought of.  It comes at the exact point in the year when you need rest and relaxation.  Relaxation.  Relax.  This is a hard word to put into practice.  Aaron and I decided for the entirety of our spring break we would do nothing. 

I've always translated relaxing/nothing into laziness.  I'm active and always have a to-do list on my mind so naturally I feel like I'm wasting good time on the couch.

“Il bel far niente. ”  
     The beauty of doing nothing. 

 
I can watch about two tv shows and then I begin to pace around the apartment.  I must work.  I must clean.  I must organize.  I've been realizing the beauty of stillness.  I cut myself off of work at a certain time in the afternoon to allow time at home to do nothing.  I think everyone can define nothing for themselves.  My nothing is anything that will encourage self reflection and a sense of peace.  An act that eases anxiety and puts a smile on my face.  For me it's reading, enjoying an afternoon cup of coffee, or sometimes I literally do nothing.  There is balance for everything.  I cannot possibly sit at home every evening and do nothing.  But interspersed with the business of our lives we must embrace the beauty of still moments.  The Christmas season goes by in a flash, I often cannot remember what I did the weekend before, and every time I look at my legs I think, "didn't I just shave these things?!" 

We hear clearly when we aren't speaking. 
We see with more focus when we have no distractions. 
We love with strength when we have energy to spend on those we cherish.
We feel more confident when there is time for self reflection. 

I could always do more hearing, seeing, loving and feeling. 
Define your nothing and do it.

Love,
  Nicole