Neditate. That’s what the bumper sticker said. It took a moment to register, but I realized the same style and layout that has become pretty popular on license plates, stickers, key rings and such, that say “Native” or what have you. This one in particular was for denizens in Nederland, that sleepy town up and away from Boulder.  And is it sleepy, slow and mountain folk friendly, a blast to the past, it reminds me of an old cowboy town that’s lost its saloon and spurs. Nederland is home to those seeking solace from city life, craving do- it- yourself mountain homes, organic groceries and crafty shops. It does have a sense of calm about it, compared to, well say, New York City.  It’s a plethora of all walks. There are alpaca owners here,  one of a kind festivals, band managers, realtors doubling as rock and gem fans,  serious bookworms, environmental educators, acupuncturists, back country skiers and avid nature seekers.

Neditate, obviously a play on meditate. I wonder how many people have bought into its growing popularity. Just sitting for even 5 minutes a day, and emptying the mind like a trash can.  Literally allowing it to become a blank slate. Just focusing on your own breath, being completely present.  Can you imagine nothingness, no thought, no worries, no to-do lists, no what if’s, no whats for dinner plans for just 5 minutes? Sounds pretty darn relaxing to me. People in the east and elsewhere have been practicing mindful meditation for hundreds of years. There must be something to it. How calming, like a day at the spa or a retreat, how healthy for us busy bodies.

Trust me, I know its hard to be still, to just sit with your eyes closed. But we can do this.  Taking time out for yourself, for just a smidgen of the day, can have wonderful effects.  Try a little zen, instead of who, what, where and when.