233. The Joy of Lollygagging

This morning, I woke up, made French toast and tea. I enjoyed my breakfast in the place where the sun was gently caressing my face. I felt like a happy cat basking in the sun.

Then, my body took me for a walk in the fields. Suddenly, I ended up on the beach. I gazed at the sun reflected in the silvery waves of the sea. I felt the time had stopped. I felt precious. I was in paradise.

That’s what lollygagging is. It is not a waste of time. It is one of the most precious ways of feeling our energy. It’s lighter than rest and softer than sleep. It is a moment when we don't care about anything and just are. It is a room to breathe. My favourite ways of lollygagging are:

• A slow country walk with no destination, particularly by the sea

• Doodling while listening to music

• People watching

• Reading poetry out loud

• Drinking tea

What are the benefits, one may ask?

When you lollygag, we:

• Let go of pressure

• Reset our nervous system

• Relax our voice

• Slow down our speech

• Become soft

• Napping in the afternoon

If we want to sound confident and connected — whether in public speaking or just chatting with friends — our energy needs that balance.

How do you like to lollygag? Is it a walk, a nap, a hobby, or something else? Share in the comments — your idea might inspire someone else to give themselves the gift of slowing down.

Olga Smith

www.batcsglobal.com