Pico Iyer, Travel Writer, Celebrates the Joys of Sitting Still

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The Joy of Doing Nothing: Travel Writer Pico Iyer Celebrates the Value of Sitting Still

In a world where our attention spans are constantly being hijacked by social media, our schedules are increasingly packed, and our lives are more fast-paced than ever before, it’s refreshing to come across someone who’s unapologetically in favor of doing nothing. Pico Iyer, a renowned travel writer, is just such a person. In an age where hustle and bustle are often the default settings, Iyer makes a compelling case for the benefits of sitting still.

Iyer’s passion for sitting still isn’t just a fleeting fascination. He’s made a career out of exploring the world, writing about his experiences, and capturing the essence of different cultures. And yet, he’s convinced that some of the most meaningful moments of his life have been those spent in stillness.

“The greatest discovery I’ve made as a writer is that there’s no end to the wonders of doing nothing,” Iyer writes in his book, “The Art of Stillness: Teachings from the Silence”. “It’s a skill, really, to sit still – to be with what is – and it takes a great deal of courage, not to mention practice.”

But what does Iyer mean by “sitting still”? He’s not suggesting that we give up our hobbies, our passions, or our creative pursuits altogether. Rather, he’s encouraging us to adopt a more mindful approach to our lives, to slow down, and to tune in to our surroundings.

“In our age of instant access and constant stimulation,” Iyer observes, “the idea of ‘doing nothing’ is often viewed as a radical concept, if not a kind of laziness. But, in fact, doing nothing can be the most subversive, revolutionary thing we can do.”

So, how can we cultivate the art of sitting still in our increasingly busy lives? Here are some practical tips:

• Start small: Begin with short periods of stillness – just 5-10 minutes a day – and gradually increase the duration as you become more comfortable with the practice.

• Find your space: Identify a quiet, peaceful spot where you can sit and relax without distractions. This might be a corner of your bedroom, a local park, or even a favorite coffee shop.

• Focus on your breath: Pay attention to your breath as you sit still. Notice the sensation of the air moving in and out of your body, and let go of any thoughts or distractions.

• Practice mindfulness: Bring mindfulness into your daily routine by focusing on your senses. Notice the sights, sounds, smells, and sensations around you.

• Learn to love silence: Iyer believes that silence is an underrated quality. He encourages us to appreciate the beauty of quiet, to revel in the stillness, and to use it as a source of inspiration.

For Iyer, the value of sitting still goes beyond the individual benefits it brings. He believes that in a world plagued by conflict, division, and chaos, it’s essential that we cultivate stillness and mindfulness on a larger scale.

“As we move faster and faster,” Iyer notes, “it’s as if we’re getting further and further away from ourselves, from our deepest desires and values. In stillness, we can connect with something deeper and more authentic – something that’s beyond our immediate desires and distractions.”

So, the next time you’re tempted to hit the snooze button, scroll through social media, or dash off to your next appointment, take a step back and reconsider. Remember that doing nothing is not only possible but also a vital part of a balanced and fulfilling life.

As Iyer so eloquently puts it, “Stillness is a doorway to wonder, a bridge to the sacred, and a gateway to our own true selves.”

In a world that’s increasingly fast-paced and chaotic, Iyer’s message is both refreshing and liberating. He reminds us that, despite the demands of modern life, it’s still possible to slow down, to reflect, and to connect with our deepest selves. And in doing so, we can discover a sense of inner peace, tranquility, and contentment that’s hard to find in today’s fast-moving world.

By embracing the joy of doing nothing, we can tap into the profound wisdom of stillness and experience the transformative power of quiet contemplation. As Iyer so aptly puts it, “In stillness, we can find our own true pace, our own rhythm, and our own place in the world.”

So, the next time you’re faced with a spare moment, consider taking a deep breath, settling in, and embracing the simple, yet profound, art of sitting still. You never know where it might take you.