When did you last sit outside without doing anything at all?
When we go outside, it is usually to do something. Hang the washing, walk the dog, get to the car. Even when we sit in the garden, we tend to bring a phone, a book or a cup of tea.
This week, why not take 15 minutes for a little hygge moment and sit outside without doing anything else? It sounds simple, but it can be surprisingly restful.
Just you and the outdoors.
Make it cosy
Before you head out, keep it simple:
- A warm layer, like a coat, jumper or scarf
- Something to sit on: a step, a bench or a garden chair
- A cushion if the seat is cold
- Your phone left indoors
- Nothing else at all
Your 15 minutes outdoors
- Find a spot. A doorstep, a bench, a balcony or a garden chair.
- Sit down. Get comfortable and let your hands rest.
- Leave it all inside. No phone, no book, no drink.
- Notice. Feel the temperature, hear the sounds and look at the sky.
- Go back in. When 15 minutes is up, head inside, refreshed.
Slow it right down
At first it might feel strange to do nothing. That’s fine. Let the urge to reach for something pass, and simply be where you are.
As you settle in, try to notice:
- Whether the air feels crisp, damp, mild or still
- Birdsong, wind in the trees and distant voices
- How the clouds move across the sky
- How your breathing slows the longer you sit
Finish gently
When you come back inside, take a moment before picking up your phone. On chillier days, my post on how to layer up and sit outside will help you stay cosy.
You could also:
- Make it part of your morning or evening
- Find a favourite outdoor spot near home
- Try it in every season and notice the changes
- Invite someone to sit quietly with you
Your 15-minute challenge
This week, give yourself 15 minutes.
Find a seat outside. Leave everything indoors. Sit down.
Then simply be there.
No phone. No book. No drink.
Just you, the fresh air and the sky above.
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