Learning Moments

On permission, stillness, and the art of doing nothing

My body knows.
The question is—do I listen?

Not always.

I have my little pause habits: walking with a question through Street Wisdom, morning journaling, or mini-pauses on park benches while I walk my dog.

These pauses create space—for creative sparks and a bit of serendipity. Many of my best ideas start there. They connect dots that remain invisible when I keep myself busy with doing stuff.

Sometimes inspiration comes from something very small: gazing out of a window, sitting quietly, changing location or posture, or simply allowing a thought to unfold on paper.

Sometimes I am invited to pause. When my partner holds a mug of freshly brewed coffee under my nose, it’s definitely time for a break. Maybe not always the ideal moment—but always a good opportunity to connect.

But knowing how to pause is one thing.
Knowing when to pause—that’s something else entirely.

The other day, my body made the decision for me.

Lying on the floor (one of the advantages of a home office), I felt relief move through my whole body. Just lying there, quietly, listening to the sounds of the house, felt like a gift.

I should do this more often.

Or maybe more precisely—I want to give myself permission to do it more often.
Because permission is the real challenge.

Not just permission to pause—but permission to do nothing.

And maybe that’s where it begins.

My body already knows.
It starts with noticing if I’m willing to listen.

When was the last time you gave yourself permission to pause?

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The bit at the end

Exciting events on the horizon to support your exploration:

• What if the most rebellious thing you could do right now is pause?
  Pause with us—find out more about Rebel with a Pause here and join us for a free monthly 30-minute pause.
• Curious to experience Street Wisdom for yourself — inspiring, surprising, and quietly powerful? Reach out, and let’s wander with wonder through the streets, alleys, and bridges of Alkmaar or Amsterdam. Learn more about Street Wisdom here.
• Join the next Unhurried Conversation—a space to slow down, listen, and connect. We meet every 2nd Monday of the month. It’s free, and you’re warmly welcome. Sign up here.
• For more Learning Moments, subscribe to my newsletter and get timely updates straight to your inbox.

Reach out,  I’m always open for a chat.
Creatively,
Nadia

P.S.The paintings featured on the blog are my own.