Don’t Do Anything.
I have a plea. An appeal. A call to action! “Do something.”
It’s particularly helpful during this season when the stress level can be as high as the fat content in our holiday-fun foods. “Do something” can be a short walk, meditation, or visiting a nearby nature area. In addition, I advocate for time spent outside, from a blustery visit to your backyard to winter backpacking adventure. The more you get out, the better your brain and body are, and the better for our world.
But “do nothing” is cool too!
I paddled Lake Solano on Friday, part of a one-night camping adventure. Launching from the bank, I was immediately immersed in a flock of floating buffleheads (yup, that’s their names) and Canada geese. After only 5 minutes on the glassy water, I was already in a peaceful state of awe. Then, a hundred yards later, I passed under a bridge, a bank of tule, and pointed to the main body of the lake. My desire to cover the entire span vanished.
Since I was floating motionless, an egret landed 20 yards from me. Although I see them frequently, my jaw drops when an egret flies over the water. They are drama and white elegance. I raised my binoculars and watched her for a half hour as she intensely hunted for small fish. It was luxurious to do so little and feel that relaxed.
Sure. I had to do something to do nothing, but nothing is an active state that needs more attention. As a recovering triathlete, I used to measure adventure by distance. Now, I fully support the short walk, ride, or paddle. Then sitting is followed by the crucial “do nothing” phase. Try it. You might be surprised by what shows up.
Gypsy and I will stay at Lake Solano on the second night of our walk to Point Reyes next spring. I find the lake remarkably peaceful in the winter, but it's beautiful all year. Unfortunately, rain and wind canceled our wildlife canoe tour on Saturday, but I'm looking forward to joining the kind people at the Putah Creek Council in January.