The Lost Art of doing Nothing

[@terrariumelio974]

Thank you! I often feel like a freak because I have a need to do nothing. Most people I say this to don’t get it and, like you said in the video, think I’m lazy. We are living in a time where everything is an emergency and Everyone wants instantly gratification. This to me is exhausting.

[@GaiaGalaxy420]

I feel this SO much! You are def not alone with this feeling 💛

[@noelleagape8684]

I'm Italy and understand that it's a good thing to do nothing for a span of time every day. It's good to be quiet, think and just be. If you have a garden or one you can visit, it's very nice to listen to birds etc. It is truly energizing.

[@theunexpectedgypsy]

😙😙😙yes, so true xxx

[@vickiboise]

Thank you for this gift! I have been feeling so uninspired and unsettled lately. I too am in menopause but never give myself the excuse. I think I should be Superwoman no matter what. I'm not very kind to myself. I even had a long conversation with my husband this morning about how I can't seem to relax into anything. So I decided after lunch, rather than running back to my hairied life, I would make a cup of tea. I'm American.. we don't do that that often :-) and I told myself I was going to watch a video while drinking tea. And guess what video I ran across! Coincidence?.. I think not :-). This is exactly what I needed to hear. And, of course, exactly when I needed to hear it. Thank you :-)

[@theunexpectedgypsy]

Awwwww lovely to have a cuppa tea 🫖 with you! Thank you so much for keeping me company xxxx serendipity is a wonderful thing 😙😙😙🫖🫖🫖💕💕

[@magicwendy210]

thank you for this, l have finally listened to my intuition that was calling me to step away from my business for a while due to burn out, it has been scary to do so with no means of money coming in, my intuition roared and l took action to shut my business down for how long l have no idea l am just trusting this process and floating for a while, so many are feeling similar to this needing 'me time' and are feeling change is needed but are scared and fearful...it takes courage, trust and faith to take a leap into the unknown and just be still for a while, sending love to you wendy and all those in a similar position

[@carmengiles456]

Such a good idea. Time is so precious, enjoy your you time 🙂

[@bettymetz3746]

Please take time to journal as you take this break. Write about your decision to get away, how it feels every day both physically and emotionally. Try to feel positive vibes from the world around you and from any friends you have. Blessings from Betty in Ohio.

[@jwilcox4726]

@@bettymetz3746 That is not doing nothing. No schedule is really letting go. She'll remember when she gets back. She's only taking a break. Hear that again because I think you need one from schedules. She is taking a much needed break. Just let life lead you. Stress reduction needed for all of us. God Bless you Betty Metz, take a break darlin' and relax. Practice catching your thoughts pushing in and taking over. When you catch yourself by realizing your thinking about a thought that went past, just let it go, don't even comment to yourself. This takes a while to get the hang of but so worth the control over your senses you will achieve. Keep practicing a little five min. or less or way less but it will increase as you learn to let go and not do anything. Just let them the thoughts just float right on by. I catch myself sometimes by saying Nope keep on going by. The thought leaves. Then when I think here comes a stray different thought than what I was thinking and Nope as soon as I catch that it has changed my train of thought, it's again back to No. It's wonderful.Peace

[@jwilcox4726]

@@bettymetz3746 Every night before I go to bed I was taught to "Introspect" my day and all you said above, then let it go out into universe to be drawn back if and when I need to remember. It works and gets alot of stuff out of my head before I try to relax to read, sleep, meditate, whatever every nite I introspect about that day. Not the next day only things that happened today that need to be thought out alone to think and start forming knowledge of what you know for what will be when it arrives. Introspection.

[@VeganSemihCyprus33]

The Connections (2021) [short documentary] 🔥

[@jackieluckyangel5610]

“Bobulate” is now an official expression! Love it💞

[@cmralph...]

I wholeheartedly agree. Author of "Deep Work", Cal Newport has published a lot of really useful stuff on this topic. Allowing yourself to be bored, digital minimalism, etc. I find now that I no longer engage in social media for anything other than publishing my work, I have found way more time and way more energy to create art and illustrate books. Great video share - Thanks! 🙂

[@CreateAndPlayWithRenee]

I remember hearing that in "Eat, Pray, Love". Such a great philosophy.

[@txspacemom765]

One of my favorites "Eat, Pray, Love." A great reminder!

[@kimberlydavis5034]

Thank you so much for this. I've been a caretaker my whole entire life. The 24/7 was so stressful on me that I had a stroke in my sleep died and God brought me back to life. I've had 2 heart attacks, 7 caretaker burnouts. 3 nervous breakdowns. I can no longer take care of anyone else anymore because of my own medical conditions, disabilities and limitations. I go at my own pace and for the first time in my life, I'm learning how to care for myself and my emotional support dog.

[@batmanfan20101]

"Bobulate the discombobulations" is an amazing saying!!!

[@helenecorbett7487]

One of my favourite movies "Eat, Pray, Love"...I so envy the lead character!. So glad you managed to get away & unwind (both of you). What a lovely part of the World. Best wishes Wendy & James xx

[@earringsbyangela3164]

Omg Helene! "Eat, Pray, Love" is my FAVORITE movie and I've read the book twice. I may read it again while enjoying some me time. Peace and blessings to you.

[@carolynbridgeman5981]

When people are bored it's often them thinking, why don't I want to do anything?, thinking something is wrong with that. I think that being bored is an opportunity to try to understand why we think we have to constantly be doing something.

[@syd_santon]

In nothingness is where true inspiration and creativity dwell❤️❤️❤️

[@crystalhealing847]

Ahhhh....I feel for all of you that still go to work .....I am retired now and I practice every day "il dolce far niente".....I love it 😀

[@AJV0808]

Thank you for sharing. I really love your basecamp tent!

[@corirodriquez2889]

Thank you a video on life as intended 💐🌺 Such a peaceful reminder we are normal!!

[@alicejump2290]

How refreshing, giving a peaceful break to my day! Blessed and safe days!

[@justjudy7320]

You always make me smile and I was already smiling 😃.

[@theunexpectedgypsy]

🤗perfect and awesome 😚😚🫖🫖🌟🌟

[@collageartist-jacquied3180]

Thank you for sharing your menopausal info. That affirmed me so much. I have been feeling the exact same way-the need for cocooning and not being social. I, too, find it difficult to be around people for any length of time (with the exception of my partner, who is a woman and going through the same things, so she gets it. Your video blessed me so much and I’m grateful. Loved seeing your campsite. I live in the Deep South of Louisiana so it is HOT in the summer, but this is tempting for fall. 💜

[@butterflyjen4454]

Hello Wendy, good way to describe the menopause experience. Crescendo. I'm going through the same thing. It's not an easy transition and I feel the same, my energy levels are not consistent. This can be frustrating. I'm finding I need more rest than ever after coming off some difficult years and going through this transition. I've been guarding my time more and more for rest, which means saying no to things. Thanks for the lovely videos. I find them calming and inspirational. Keep taking care of yourself!

[@saracas93]

Audible 'mmm' at the clips of the forest. Being beneath the trees brings instant calm for me. Your voice is magical, would be perfect for audio book narration. I just came across your channel, thank you

[@Budgetmeright]

So happy to watch this. I love doing nothing when I feel like it and love being creative and productive when I feel like it. I try to be mindful and listen to what my body and soul needs. Self care is not only nails and face masks. It's about giving your self grace and accepting who you are

[@teresamentzer9159]

I have pushed myself so hard taking care of others and just the day to day work, that I have ended up sick and run down in bed for the past week. It has opened up my eyes on how important it is to - just do nothing for my mental health and physical health. Wendy - this video couldn't have come at a more important time in my life - Thank you and Blessings.

[@sagepremoe1565]

Laying (or sitting) directly on Mother Earth for 20+ minutes will re-calibrate your frequency to peace. Sitting with your back touching a tree does the same thing. When was the last time you hugged a tree, thanking it for cleansing our lungs. I think the introspection and intention is more indicative of our times. Earth (and humans) are transitioning and the feelings you are having are becoming more the norm. It's beautiful that you are putting these feelings and intentions into words, as a guide for others to live more consciously.

[@sherryhoffman2880]

What a lovely sharing, Wendy. I do believe you are echoing feelings many of us are having right now. Nature is always grounding, but we also need the routines of caring for ourselves and our souls that you have listed so that it all works in harmony for our well-being. Kudos to you and James for taking a break. Now I want a tent!!

[@camilleveronicamusicalartist]

I am so glad you took time for yourself. What a wonderful way to listen to what your soul needs!

[@lcarolc03]

Such a wonderful reminder that multi tasking - so valuable in my govt career can be very detrimental at this stage of my life. I must constantly remind myself - one thing at a time , rest when I’m tired , do nothing without guilt. Your voice and views are so enriching.

[@franklinstephen3268]

Hello how are you doing?

[@paulathefairy676]

Reading all these lovely comments and so many of us are feeling the same way, I am taking time off my job as a specialist nurse in the NHS due to near burnout! Your videos remind us that it’s okay to need time for yourself and you give us all permission to rest 🌸 bless you and James ❤️

[@awpetersen5909]

I hope you can charge your batteries. Love from Kiel

[@mariridout2124]

I used to work for NHS felt same ! Hope you had a nice break!!

[@jwilcox4726]

TED talks a show out of UK I think was talking about Alzheimer's and said a key factor or thee key factor is brain flushing. Brain flushing the dead stuff out while we sleep so when we don't get enough sleep stuff builds up on the dendrites and then slams into breaking off pieces of the snapse so lack of a contact. I was a CNA, and I know specialized nurses stay with that patient for many many hours. My friend she does children after radiation/chemotherapy. City of Hope. Sandy Ducharme out of SoCal. Thought you might know her, you guys are so specialized just thought with the loss of staff recently you might have met. Blessings to you

[@jwilcox4726]

It's NECESSARY to sustain a healthy mind & body for all of us, each and every one of us. We are, always have been, & always will be a humanoid family. Blessings

[@VeganSemihCyprus33]

The Connections (2021) [short documentary] 🔥

[@sarahb2652]

I am so glad you managed to get away and hopefully relax a little. I have watched your vlogs for 2 years now since lock down and enjoy your journey and art. I know you mention menopause and I hope you can find ways to help, I went through mine early, at 40, 9 years ago. I hope you are getting help from your GP if you need it, as well as all the things we can do to help ourselves with diet, herbal remedies etc. I do worry that you seem to have lost weight Wendy, over the last few months. If you need extra support it is ok to ask. Please accept my comments from a place of care for you. You have given us all so much of yourself and your art and we in turn want to make sure you are ok too. xx❤🤗

[@franklinstephen3268]

Yes you’re right i notice that she just have to get some rest. How’re you doing?

[@Sageandgold]

Thank you for this beautiful video.

[@AngelikaDV]

"Recharging by doing nothing sets us up for more productivity" - I am living proof of this as a professional writer. I always need a full day off in between projects, then I can't believe how productive I become!! Thanks for the reminder, lovely Wendy xx

[@brightpurpleviking]

I’ve learned a lot from you about balance and grace, living intentionally and accepting my nicks and bumps. The lightbulb moment was way back when you showed the video of James right after he got attacked by the dog in the park. You both had contemplated taking time off to regroup, and then said he was out of sorts because of the experience. I would have pushed it aside and kept plowing ahead without processing it. And I paused for the first time in my life at that very moment…the moment I glimpsed that stressful and sudden harm seems to be expected in my life…and how wrong that is to accept. So thank you for beginning to open my eyes to allow myself the grace to FEEL and PROCESS everything life throws at me. And to notice that all the “plowing ahead” makes for a deeply stressful, anxious filled life. And who wants that!? Not me anymore. Naysayers and judgmental be damned. 🥰

[@carmengiles456]

Thank you dear Wendy. What a lovely video. I too have been finding social interaction difficult since the menopause arrived. So unexpected as I have always been such a social gal. My energy levels simply plumeted overnight. So many characteristics of my petsonality evaporated. We need to speak more about the changes the change delivers; personaly had no idea what was going on. Honestly thought maybe I'd gone ever-so slightly mad. Thanks again for all that you do, I find a true comfort & sence of belonging when watching your videas. You are greatly appriciated.

[@myenchantedjournals]

It’s hard isn’t it - “doing nothing” has long been associated with being lazy! How wrong that is. We need to stop and recharge or we get burnout. Take care, hugs from Australia x

[@sarahgirard1405]

Mediation is in a way also like “doing nothing” but can actually require quite a bit of effort. Such a conundrum. I love it.

[@tripstaholic]

The lost art of doing nothing: total agree with this! 👏 P.s: I'm Italian, but the 'dolce far niente ' it's just a beautiful utopian concept. Personally I'm in burnout after working on my freelance career for the last 6 years from Monday to Sunday, without any pause or vacation. I had to stop for a while because I couldn't take it anymore. Gorgeous video Wendy, thank you for talking about these topics, they are important ♥ ️ Take care ♥️🪷

[@VeganSemihCyprus33]

The Connections (2021) [short documentary] 🔥

[@evolveyourself9518]

I thought the Italians were in a constant state of rest? Haha, just kidding.

[@samella35]

Beautiful simplicity.

[@ImaginethenorthNet]

I just went on a 5 day road trip with my husband and I accidentally left my phone at home! I panicked when I realized but it was the best thing I could have done. 5 days with no internet was bliss 😍

[@mariridout2124]

Vielen Dank für ihre schönen Video. Ihre Harre ist sehr schön!

[@sharonkilby7237]

So lovely to re-stumble upon your vlog... a touch of serendipity I think. Love the Italian references...my home now for 15 years...and the views of Wells where I grew up. I have gratefully soaked up your calming energy and hope to build more mindfulness into my life. Thank you for the inspiration.

[@Trissa.33]

I found a little vintage suitcase just like yours last year, it's absolutely adorable and the inside is papered with a beautiful duckegg colour which I love. £4! I have stored special letters I've received through my life in it. Your video reminded me of this wonderful Spanish proverb.. “How beautiful it is to do nothing, and then rest afterwards” xx

[@belindahugheslifestyle]

Hey Wendy & James! Thank you for letting us peek into your getaway, so we can remember to take our time-outs and be inspired toward more spontaneity. This isn't just a community of people who like beautiful art, it's a communion of spirits with a lovely leader who's authentic in all the ways. and that's why we're all here. Always do you. Some years ago, I had a profoundly overloaded plate period that resulted in exhaustion and exiting city life for the country when I finally reached the end of that chapter, with awful back pain (holding things in) and perimenopause in full effect. It's taken me 10+ yrs to be ready to return to suburban life, to be near a friend and work on a project together, and look forward to it. I'm planning on a van kitted for comfy camping, so I/we can take off at a moment's notice. Bright blessings, all.

[@madelynsmith8281]

Thank you Wendy and James for the relaxing video. So lovely. ❤ Your set up has everything you need. I really love to come along on your travels. I especially love that book shop. I love books.📚

[@The_artistic_yogi]

This video is just great! How is it that everytime I watch your weekly video, I suddenly feel like there isn't really anything wrong with me?!? Thank you 🙏🧡

[@wildflowerwind6941]

Why do we feel there is something wrong with us? I am having a nervous breakdown trying to do and be what society thinks is correct.

[@b-loved7777]

Your lovely and beautiful.🪄☮️💕🌙✨🙏🏽thank you dear soul.✨

[@susan903]

Hi Wendy, I've enjoyed all your videos since first discovering you during the pandemic; but this one was so perfect for right now. I have been going from day to day like a hampster that can't get off it's exercise wheel (daily hospital visits for loved one). Your video is so inspiring and now I'm planning a short get away as soon as things stabilize. So thank you for that reminder, dolce far niente!

[@franklinstephen3268]

Hello how are you doing?

[@robynforman1978]

Wendy you are a gentle artistic mentor. Thank you for sharing your journey. Peace and love Wendy and James. Greetings from Brighton

[@terrychancellor4593]

One thing I found that helps me "unplug" and be still for a bit is nature journaling. Just getting outside for a few minutes, sketching something I see, observing details I might normally pass unnoticed, write down the sounds I hear, smells in the air, interactions with creatures, etc. I have a small zip up bag that holds all I need, sketchbook, pens, and tiny travel watercolor set with an aqua pen/brush. Always loaded with all I need for any moment. It's a joy to look back on things recorded as well. You would love it!!

[@The1christy]

Thank you, Wendy. I have been going a year now, flying back and forth from my home, to my mom’s care home. She has Alzheimer’s, and even though she’s going through a lot, I have come to realize that I have been, too. I just sat, listened to your soothing voice, and drank in all of your practical advice about slowing down, and being there for ourselves. Your video couldn’t have come at a better time. I will work on this, and try to keep my lights shining brightly. xx❤

[@enamary1]

Thank you Wendy, as always, for your lovely and ever so welcome videos. When you strike on something that people love, it's easy to overcommit and inevitably become overwhelmed - it's the downside of success in our pursuits. Learning to balance is the next challenge. So good to take R&R time. I was making something simple with cardboard the other day, and thought, as I have occasionally, how good it would be for James make a tutorial video about making cardboard shelving, etc. I know he must be busy too, but a video by James could save you making at least one week's youtube video? Just an idea. All thanks, appreciation, and hugs xx

[@skokokelli]

I would absolutely love a cardboard King video! Saved some sturdy cardboard and am considering making some drawers. In particular I would like to see how he designs and measures a project.

[@angiesvoice]

I'm new to discovering your channel (so lovely!). I've come back to this video again and must add my voice to the "Yes, please! A Cardboard King video would be wonderful!" chorus.

[@janew4690]

You are so on here. So insightful and I wish I could digest it all. I will in bits and bobs and re-listen and watch this one over and over. Thank you Wendy. You are a treasure!

[@melanieklarofficial]

Isn’t it amazing that “all” you are doing is being authentic and share the raw humanity that is you-and you are make us all realize that we are all human-wonderfully wonderful and messed up and great and broken, hormonal, and the next day feeling young again…You have made me feel not alone-that there isn’t anything wrong with me-I’m human like us all. Thank you. I now feel there are kindred spirits all over the world, when I used to think I was different and alone. I didn’t realize that it’s normal to want to be alone a lot during menopause. I certainly feel that!

[@magdastar2249]

You are so right on. Could not express it better myself. You are an inspiration and your videos are greatly appreciated. Thank you Wendy ❤️🌿⚘️🌿

[@liamwatson3545]

dolce far niente, I knew there was a name for what I love!

[@bonfireart3121]

So agree with you, I often say I need a time out and then one app or another or some task gets me and I'm not taking actually a quiet time out. Thanks for the suggestions and guidelines and also just knowing that I’m not alone in this quest is really good to know. Thanks for sharing, much love 💞

[@cynthiapate9138]

Thank you for taking me along on this lovely getaway. The bookshop was so much fun to look at. Every evening I sit on my deck and throw the ball to my dog. It is so restful and fun to end my day like this.

[@Sementeira]

thank you, Wendy. I'll watch some eat, pray, love this sunday

[@danawyssbrod387]

I'm so happy to find someone else who finds it important to just "BE". To do nothing. I love the language you are speaking. I guess because it feels as though you are speaking to me! Thank you, Sister-friend.❤

[@darleneengebretsen1468]

We can learn to exist as human Be-ings instead of human Do-ings!

[@Tass3030]

Love this! The divine creator rested after creating 🤔

[@clairelouise-z7z]

That was so lovely and relaxing to watch and listen to, Thankyou for sharing with us 💕💕💕

[@franklinstephen3268]

Hi 👋 how are you doing?

[@sandramariesolander]

Oh this makes me want to go camping! Next weekend, us girls all go for a short gathering and birthday party for my younger son Sam. I can't wait! ❤️ You guys are so organized, what a beautiful quiet spot! STOP, put it to paper, and reflect on it. Thank you for taking us along on your trip 💕

[@VeganSemihCyprus33]

The Connections (2021) [short documentary] 🔥

[@sheilastyrebriere]

Needed this today Wendy, thank you🤗 I know it’s an older vlog, honestly, all of yours beautifully, and gently, give me what I need to hear. Gratitude and soft hugs ✨🤗✨

[@robinharrold4969]

Thanks Wendy. I have recently re- joined my Child hood church and discovered that while not being an active member all these years I am still a spiritual person thru the quite time I give myself. I use a journal as a Gratitude journal. My life is full of joy when I lay my head down at night to count my blessing I realize I have more to be thankful for. Your video today just confirms my well-being. Take care of just the quiet time to just BE.

[@auntdave180]

Thank you! 🤗 This is my all-time favorite video you have posted. I really needed to have this enter my life today. ⛺️

[@franklinstephen3268]

Hi how are you doing?

[@librarian1701-D]

beautiful! thank you so much for this inspiring video and sharing.. that is a gift for me

[@franklinstephen3268]

Hello 👋 how are you doing?

[@carolynmarie4008]

Wendy, this was a beautiful essay on self care. I completely agree with you on the effects of the turmoil of the last few years. It seems like everything is discombobulated just enough to shift everyone off just a bit. Perhaps the Universe is telling us that we must change our ways.

[@ehpeachylove]

Dear Wendy and James, good for you both taking a spontaneous camp trip and unplugged too. Lovely setup. I went out of town this past week to visit friends 300 mi away, they have been I’ll and I went to help in any way I could. Cooking and visit, driving them to appts. Four yrs since I’ve gone anywhere or seen them due to illness, Covid.. was good to get away. House sat for my son two weekend in a row to watch chickens, rabbits, dogs and cockatiel. Summer for them to have a camp out with the younger grandkids and make those beautiful memories. Your video is always so enlightening. When I went thru the change at one point I felt like I was going nuts…. When I retired from a government job and working on a computer for 29yrs, multitasking from task to task and meetings plus the customer oh contact… it took 3 weeks for the pressure in my head to go away. It was like my brain had been on overload and needed time to unwind itself. So much over loading on a daily basis is not good for any of us. Again another video to rewatch and take notes. Love and best wishes to both you and James my beautiful friend. So glad you are practicing self care. I was so happy to get back home and have the need to shut myself off from all external forces . 🤗😘❤️🙏💫📝🎨🖌

[@brigitvanrooij1689]

I am totally binchwatching all your videos right now. I found you a while before, but your videos didn’t resonate with me then. And now, now I am further in my selflove, selfacceptance process I am so happy with everything you say and do. So thank you so much for being you and sharing yourself so bravely with us. I am grateful.💕💕💕

[@theunexpectedgypsy]

thankyou for such a lovely comment, happy self care journey xxx

[@brigitvanrooij1689]

@@theunexpectedgypsy Thank you Wendy.💕

[@vitalsparkmassage]

What a lovely video Wendy & James. I know I could chill in the camping spot you stayed at. Wow to the book shop!! That's somewhere I could have spent hours. I'm so pleased you didn't vlog the whole time you were away & where able to decompress. When you said give from your saucer, I heard you say give from your source(er). That was a very powerful statement for me. Much love to you both. Gentle enveloping hugs 💜🧚‍♀️🌈❤️

[@franklinstephen3268]

Hello how are you doing?

[@naturalleigh3795]

I traded in my 8-6 draining job for working a couple hours a day and traveling. It’s really helped my mental health.

[@suev4143]

Eat Pray Love. Simmering; letting things gently bubble on a back burner, leaving one's time free to "go with the flow". Doing, or being. Find joy in simple pleasures. Stop and smell the roses. May we all find the enchantment of life. Thank you for sharing your time and thoughts with all of us. Enjoy your siestas (they are allowed), and your time to just be. I hope you find lots of ways to recharge from the universe's energy. (And yes, I got weepy just watching this video, and that's okay.)

[@katec9893]

I really loved this. The place you visited looks so nice to potter around and explore. I loved the quote 'do nothing, with intention' because you're right it's so easy to just sit and scroll rather than read a nice book or sip a hot drink outside looking at nature or watch a favourite film. Yours is one of my favourite KZbin channels because you seem authentic, honest, fun, warm and creative which is quite rare to find online with a lot of fakeness about. Thanks for being you and creating these videos.

[@mariereagan353]

Thank you Wendy for this, I'm not in a good space right now and I feel I've burnt out, had to stop everything today as feels like for over 3yrs since I moved I've had fires to fight, but last straw was when my garden project last year turned into a massive nightmare instead of my dream, cowboys did really poor work and ran with my money and it's still in an unfinished state this has impacted my mental health and I feel broken right now, but I guess eventually I will heal but I've had enough now. I'm watching your vlog and wishing I could escape too, I hope you enjoy your break . Xx

[@chrisgregore359]

Wow, wonderful camp set-up thank you for sharing. ❤This makes me want to go camping! 😊I'm so glad you and James, were able to get away and recharge yourselves.

[@RG-yf3uj]

TFS Wendy. Glad you & James were able to get away, disconnect, decompress, relax & rejuvenate 🙂 I wrote your top ten tips in my journal as a helpful reminder. Always appreciate you 💙

[@jochaffey9659]

Wow! I've just found you and I'm so glad I did. You are just what I need. Many blessings to you and yours ♥

[@river2711]

I'm in total agreement with taking time to just be present and stop for awhile. It was very relaxing to watch the tour of your camp, you are so organized! I hope you return rested and reset. Thank you for sharing and encouraging living a balanced life---Dolce far niente!

[@ariannarp6866]

I needed exactly this, this morning. I’ve been working all summer with no break and although I got so much accomplished, I felt bitter and guilty at the same time. Now I know why. Thank you.

[@judyjennings9837]

Oh those clouds!!! Lovely, lovely, lovely...

[@Paintspotsandpaper]

Really loved this video, I’ve only just seen it, don’t know how I missed it, I watch all of your videos. This is perfect for me atm as I am ill in bed and in a lot of discomfort, but feel guilty about doing nothing! I’m going to take it as it comes from now until I’m physically and mentally able to do things again. Thankyou so much for sharing x

[@charleekimball6551]

Thank you for this wonderful video. Such a timely message for me personally. Your campsite is devine!

[@sarahjones8608]

Lovely video and much needed advice. I find it hard to stop and when I do I struggle with the guilt of stopping or thinking about future work ahead and it's usually for others. The only time I feel totally free is when I'm in water, sea, river, lake. Thanks again 🥰

[@betsybangley5081]

Thank you for the thoughtfulness you put into this list and video -- I took notes in my art journal to help me remember to do these things.

[@sallystanbury2025]

What a lovely video, thank you Wendy! 😘

[@themollsta]

Living and learning what you are talking about here Wendy. Then needing to relearn it over and over again... Feeling guilty about being not productive, house not tidy etc. but really having to slow down due to health and years of running on the hamster wheel that our society expects...its really hard to go against the society you are in... Thank you for sharing and normalizing that we do need this...much love to you and everyone else watching. Hoping you all find the pace you need for you. x

[@angieconley6501]

You can use that little suitcase for a plien air kit. Put a travel sized watercolor palette, a couple of paintbrushes, a few sheets of watercolor paper, some drawing pencils and a sketchbook all in the suitcase then see how much room you have left to maybe take along some pastels, some alcohol markers or whatever else you like. 😊❤ That suitcase is adorable! ❤

[@MrRKWRIGHT]

Good afternoon Unexpected Gypsy. Lovely video as always. I agree that doing nothing is important.

[@abundantlyinspired]

Oh I would SOOOO be lost in that bookstore for hours!!!😍😍And I totally agree with the slowing down and being present in my day to day life. We seemed taught/programmed to giving our all in our workdays but not in our off work times. ❤️We shame and cheat ourselves in the quiet lull times.

[@marilynmcpheron3231]

loved the bookshop -- fantastic place to explore. Your camping set up is well thought out. We no longer camp out but could have used these hints in our younger days. Doing nothing is important. My habit for the first day of vacation is getting up early and taking a long walk -- stopping often to notice things -- usually done very early in the morning. A large mug of tea upon arrival back -- I drink it while reflecting on my walk. Then a simple breakfast that I also force myself to linger over. Next, delving into a new novel. Before lunch, another walk--maybe not as long but brisk. After lunch, I sketch and intentionally only sketch...if uninspired, I sketch mundane items that are laying about. Usually, once I start it's becomes a marathon sketching session. Sometimes I challenge myself by sketching only with one item -- like a marker or just ball point pen. When I truly tire of sketching, I force myself to take another long hike but this time I take the sketch pad and force myself to stop at least five times to make a sketch. When I get back, a long hot shower and a simple dinner and then just sitting and watching the sun set. I sleep very well that night and I find when I get up the next morning I am very chill and the rest of vacation goes slow and easy. We vacation at a friends primitive cottage and I find it restorative. Best of luck on your next vacation--with your new guidelines I feel certain you'll be successful at unplugging.

[@krissy2321]

Thanks for taking us along with you two on your holiday. Yes the art of just ‘being’ - having time - slowing down, making time to think, contemplate and appreciate( I call it jumping off the merry-go-round☺️). This all feeds our creativity. Love all your points at the end, I’m going to write them down💛

[@amyelnicki3159]

So good to hear you speaking about the weight of the past two years. I agree it's taken a lot more out of us than I think we realize sometimes. Its as if I managed through the majority of the pandemic and now I'm able to actually have the feelings about being isolated and disconnected for such a long time. I've been overwhelmed and bored and restless all at once while feeling guilty about the fact I really have nothing to complain about. Gratitude is my closest ally when I remember to lean on her. Thank you for talking about and modeling self care. Its so easy to take it for granted.

[@demycrafts]

Sometimes we have to do nothing for a while to be able to do great things later on. Thank you so much for the lovely video Wendy! I loved the little "van tour"!

[@jeanninespinner2244]

your little campsite is lovely it was very cozy and comfortable and I do hope you enjoy yourself Thank you for sharing!!!! Amen!!! on all you say on your meditating and praying...✌️💗

[@grizeldaxxx4568]

BOBULATE noun ...to fill ones Cup so it overflows into the saucer!!!! Love it!! and You both! xx Gosh that wee book shop was so enchanting!!! Filled my wee cup as I stopped the video to gaze at the many Treasures and even dream of wearing the wee out fit the Puppet had on about 10:30 loved it... and Your camping spot and setup , thanks for sharing with us , it was MORE than enough for us to get the feel , so glad You got some Time out in such a lovely spot!! I adore Your Quest and the S.T.O.P I too will go on my Quest and share it with others ...it is so needed in these Times!!! Bright Blessings from New Zealand!! Arohanui! xx

[@janesalisbury3686]

Dear Lovely Lady, I LOVED this video on SO many levels. Camping, yo! I always take rugs and bunting (my pals laugh!!!) being outdoors brings out the primeval in us . . . a chance to be one with our surroundings . . ab fab! but we still need to make our space sacred and beautiful, oooommmm and breathe. Ref words: please don't say ''should'' . . . . it puts an unacceptable pressure on yourself. Love to you ALL.

[@arthappensontarboro]

Thank you Wendy! So happy you and James got time away. Love the Base Station!

[@themagicofgratitude1111]

I am also going through peri menopause. Thank you for this and your tips. I am going to use them for sure when I can find the time to switch off love and light Jane

[@carolannmacarthur759]

Wonderful to get away! We all need that down time away from the pressing issues we always attend to. Enjoy the rest of summer and enjoy the calm you found from being away.

[@jmckee454]

How sweet you are! Stay that way for us, as long as possible. Love ...

[@nancyorourke7679]

Really lovely video. Especially including the time elapsed tear down and clouds rolling overhead. Thank you for sharing!

[@BonLee-jh5pk]

I love to sit by water, bible and sketcher in hand and allow myself to feel the awe and joy of creation itself.