Everyone deserves to have a break from the everyday mundane, and celebrate enrichment from new, diverse experiences and cultures. Part of what makes a vacation so needed and wonderful, is the purpose of thoughtful separation from business, work deadlines, and typical responsibilities. Burnout is inevitable for overworked, under-rested individuals without the self-awareness and pursuit of holistic rest.
Sadly, it’s incredibly difficult to pause in our modern world. To actively choose disconnection and let the mind feel at ease. Most often, vacations take the role of a dynamic party and pleasure in an overload of activity. Waking up to watch the sunrise across the ocean waves, after a night’s rest of nearly four hours. Or anxiously waiting for the correct metro stop after a spilled cappuccino and misread work email crafted dizzying confusion. Amid bustling tour schedules, abnormal closing times for art museums, and the evening rush of restaurant crowds, there is little time for anything other than stress. We have allowed the fear of missing out on every possible source of entertainment, food, and Instagram post to consume our initial reason for traveling to begin with. Our minds desperately crave a true vacation.
Scandinavia has discovered the secret to being truly happy on vacation. Along with the joys of IKEA furniture and the painted Dala horse, Sweden promises a more relaxed, sustaining tradition for your next getaway. The practice of Fika has completely changed the world of coffee culture and consumption through a dedicated mindfulness technique. Fika began as a response to 17th century prohibition on coffee beans and has now transformed the idea of a “coffee date” into a ritual centered on peace and quality conversation among friends, family, and the mind.
Traditionally around 1:30 in the afternoon, Fika involves a sweet pastry or dessert bread (fikabröd) paired with delicious espresso and restful company. The practice can take place in a physical cafe or patisserie, or in the comfort of one’s home or hotel. Wherever is most comfortable and provides the greatest ease of mind, is the perfect spot. Likewise, there is no set time restraint for Fika. The break could range anywhere from fifteen minutes to two hours, depending on the needs for the day. Although some Swedish businesses highly encourage employees to participate in Fika, some managers require it, recognizing the immeasurable importance and value of rest on creativity and job performance.
The most important part of Fika is the conscious setting aside of due dates and draining responsibilities to simply slow down and focus on the beauty of the present moment. This Fika state of mind allows you to mentally recharge without a phone screen or technology to distract. To purposefully pause and celebrate the renewed spirit of the mind and body when surrounded by loved ones who inspire true rest.
Once you return to “the real world”, the practice of Fika and mindfulness doesn’t have to end. Whether on vacation or at home, setting aside fifteen minutes a day to prioritize your mind’s well-being is vital to decreasing burnout and making conscious steps towards a healthier, joyful lifestyle.
Article Source: What Is Fika Coffee – Exploring a Swedish Coffee Tradition -… (eraofwe.com)
