6 Simple Dutch Habits for Happiness, Health and Self Care

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  • Опубліковано 11 тра 2024
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    Have you ever heard of niksen? How about gezellig? Let's talk about some simple Dutch habits for happiness, health and self care. I love sharing a bit more of my culture with you today, and talk about some things that are quite normal for us Dutchies, but might not be so normal everywhere.
    Lots of love,
    🌼 Vera
    VIDEO CHAPTERS
    Intro 0:00
    Niksen 1:44
    Language learning 4:55
    Gezellig 9:07
    The outdoors 12:29
    Efficiency 15:15
    Hobbies & passions 17:28
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  • Навчання та стиль

КОМЕНТАРІ • 881

  • @SimpleHappyZen
    @SimpleHappyZen  15 днів тому +24

    What’s your favorite of these habits? 🌱 Also, a big thanks to LiveXP for sponsoring today's video! Book your first $0,99 trial lesson here: livexp.biz/HAPPYZEN and get 30% off your subscription by using this link: livexp.biz/HAPPYZEN30

    • @linastrindlund2830
      @linastrindlund2830 10 днів тому

      loved this video!

    • @user-vv4lc8nj3p
      @user-vv4lc8nj3p 9 днів тому

      P😊ĺ😊😊lpooo9😅in error in 9?robertm@ilrc.mb.ca case I have 9😅😅missed being held 99999999999999898oʻ 5:48 oooooooooooooʻooooooooooooo99999999999999999

    • @jumiloves
      @jumiloves 9 днів тому +2

      Always have a little something with coffee or tea 🥰

    • @rsoubiea
      @rsoubiea 8 днів тому +6

      Taking time for yourself and not feeling guilty about it because we all deserve that! Priceless ❤

    • @angelsplace
      @angelsplace 8 днів тому

      Uh the dutch are rioting.
      ua-cam.com/video/2xgB1ep7Iog/v-deo.htmlsi=xkW8NUv6MGAVQ1ww

  • @preag294
    @preag294 7 днів тому +85

    I have 2 American uncles who were killed in WW2. Their graves are in Holland and to this day Dutch citizens are assigned to tend to each soldier's grave. In recent years an American father and his sons visited those graves and noticed so many brothers from the war were buried together. He wrote a book about it (Brothers in Arms by Kevin Callahan) and reached out to our family for information. He was so impressed with the respect the Dutch gave to these soldiers.

  • @marylamb6063
    @marylamb6063 7 днів тому +63

    My grandmother lived like a Dutch woman, even though she smoked like a chimney and she was obese. She lived to 103. She never had cancer, diabetes, arthritis, high blood pressure, nothing. But she was totally calm and laid back. It was her personality. You either have it or you don't.

    • @jillfisher2585
      @jillfisher2585 3 дні тому

      An advert for her language classes 😂

    • @christinastephanou5971
      @christinastephanou5971 3 дні тому

      Doctors always say that obesity causes different health problems, especially smoking.

  • @dudewhathappenedtomycountr9099
    @dudewhathappenedtomycountr9099 5 днів тому +31

    This video makes me painfully aware of how much we Americans have sacrificed over the years. We've surrendered everything precious without even realizing it. Kudos to the Dutch for refusing to give it up.

  • @SIERRATREES
    @SIERRATREES 11 днів тому +93

    I can spend Saturdays just going to the park, having a coffee in my local then going home and ( slowly ) cleaning my apartment. Nothing glamourous, but as I go to bed in the evening between fresh clean sheets, I feel great ; my mind is uncluttered.

  • @JorianBilar
    @JorianBilar 9 днів тому +87

    Dutch DIRECT: "We don't say 'yes' or 'maybe', when we mean 'no'. There is much we cannot and will not do. But honesty is not a weakness, it's a strength. " - FEADSHIP Hoofddorp HQ

    • @denisemarino3021
      @denisemarino3021 7 днів тому +5

      Honesty is always a strength. It promotes trust between people.

    • @JorianBilar
      @JorianBilar 7 днів тому +4

      @@denisemarino3021 Honesty uncluttered relationships between people.

    • @vicowiz1
      @vicowiz1 7 днів тому +3

      Yes to Direct Answer, in good way..

    • @m.d9726
      @m.d9726 7 днів тому +2

      ​@denisemarino3021, yep, trust is the most valuable thing in the world.

    • @DKR-1881
      @DKR-1881 6 днів тому +1

      "There's is much we cannot and will not do." Like what? Can you give some examples? Just trying to learn more.

  • @annlavine3576
    @annlavine3576 15 днів тому +311

    Hanging out with my cats brings me joy

    • @SimpleHappyZen
      @SimpleHappyZen  15 днів тому +30

      Give them a pet from me! 💕

    • @annlavine3576
      @annlavine3576 15 днів тому +7

      @@SimpleHappyZen I hope you will adopt one or two cats for yourself and your boyfriend

    • @purronnaspaw
      @purronnaspaw 14 днів тому +17

      Absolutely...my cat or dogs keep me grounded and calmer.

    • @kristinm4005
      @kristinm4005 14 днів тому +4

      Same….😊

    • @galaxy98765
      @galaxy98765 14 днів тому +11

      Animals are the best for snuggling with. Give your kitties a kiss from Gwen in western Washington (state).
      ❤❤❤

  • @maryanncsech6964
    @maryanncsech6964 14 днів тому +173

    I had my relaxation day today. I put on some soft jazz music, opened the window wide to let the breeze blow over me, I sat sipping my herbal tea and just listened to the birds singing outside my window. It was so relaxing I fell asleep! 😄

    • @SimpleHappyZen
      @SimpleHappyZen  14 днів тому +18

      That sounds so lovely...

    • @Mtmonaghan
      @Mtmonaghan 9 днів тому +3

      What really relaxes people who relax like yourself, is that your doing it the way one would do it. Not to much distance between how one does such things and how you are doing them. Your not relaxed you are tranquillised by being disburdened of the need to really choose how to relax.

    • @rbeaton6902
      @rbeaton6902 9 днів тому +7

      Wow! Just your description alone was so beautifully relaxing.

    • @Simplyveej
      @Simplyveej 8 днів тому +2

      @@MtmonaghanComplicated! Could you please simplify?

    • @susanaescriba977
      @susanaescriba977 6 днів тому

      Anyone can do this at home, in the country they live in. That relaxation is wonderful until it is ruined by the group of tourists who have rented the nearest AIRBNB.

  • @michellevandyke5000
    @michellevandyke5000 11 днів тому +133

    My mother immigrated to North America from the Netherlands with her family. Growing up, my Oma and Opa lived right next door. I went with my mom every Saturday at 11 for coffee, and 4pm for tea. Every Sunday evening we ate at their house for dinner. I learned SO MUCH about my family and myself after watching this. 😮😅😂😊 Thank you. ❤

    • @jaapongeveer6203
      @jaapongeveer6203 9 днів тому +10

      Ben ook in Nederland geboren maar woon hier in Canada al 70 jaar als een 71 jong vent. Heb wat Nederlands leren lezen en ook schrijven.

  • @ashleyg1882
    @ashleyg1882 10 днів тому +117

    I have to say I actually like how the Dutch are direct. Not in a rude way but I like their honest communication style.

    • @annia2960
      @annia2960 8 днів тому +7

      Yes, it’s not arrogance, but we prefer honesty above hypocrisy. Love niksen.

    • @alexeykulikov2739
      @alexeykulikov2739 7 днів тому +2

      Seeing someone talking about happiness and doing nothing these days in this world feels weird.

    • @IM02424
      @IM02424 День тому

      They are direct only because they do not care about the feelings of others. Individualisme, egocentrisme en selfsuficienti are the normal values here. Not everybody fits in this picture though.

    • @ashleyg1882
      @ashleyg1882 День тому

      @@IM02424 I would rather directness than fakeness, at least you know where you stand with them. Or better yet honesty with tact would be ideal imo.

    • @IM02424
      @IM02424 День тому

      @@ashleyg1882 It's ilusion that it's not the fakeness what Dutc in general say in their "directness". They are big opportunist. But Dutch are genius in double spak, as wel. Don't forget that. There is no honesty only personal interests. Don't idealize this country. Ask yourself how is that beautiful Ansterdam built? Hoe had to pay the price. This is all about how "honest" they are. I had the same naivity 22 years ago.

  • @pierssharpe7123
    @pierssharpe7123 8 днів тому +12

    "How do you do Nothing," asked Pooh after he had wondered for a long time.
    "Well, it's when people call out at you just as you're going off to do it, 'What are you going to do, Christopher Robin?' and you say, 'Oh, Nothing,' and then you go and do it."

    • @OdinsSage
      @OdinsSage 16 годин тому

      Always the best quotes from Winnie the Pooh

  • @kimberlyperrotis8962
    @kimberlyperrotis8962 8 днів тому +35

    My grandfather was Dutch and came to San Francisco around 1904 as a child with his family. He became a carpenter, along with all his brothers, and worked on the WWII Liberty ships in Oakland. Eventually he became a building contractor and built many churches and schools here in the Bay Area. My Mom, his daughter, loved Dutch culture and I share that love. Thanks for your video.❤

    • @jenmorricone4014
      @jenmorricone4014 7 днів тому +2

      i lived in NL for several years. Some of the best experiences in my life, in the 80s.

    • @estherchandy6292
      @estherchandy6292 5 днів тому +3

      The English too. My uncle (Indian) was with the RAF and passed in England due to reconstructive surgery that wasn't successful. His grave is marked and tender to by the parish and every year flowers are placed. I didn't even know where he was buried (living as I was in India) but through rellies who were in the Indian Armed Forces we were able to trace the grace about a year ago. We put a headstone saying "Gone but not forgotten" ...he was a swashbuckler. A bit of a wild child ...but very protective of his sisters...my mum was one of his his 3 little sisters

  • @user-yv6fv6ve5w
    @user-yv6fv6ve5w 13 днів тому +52

    I love learning about Niksen. I call it “pajama day” when I get to do it!

    • @hfloor
      @hfloor 10 днів тому +1

      That's how a lot of dutchies call it too. Pyama day is a niksen day without even get dressed 😊.

  • @disney_entusiasta1296
    @disney_entusiasta1296 10 днів тому +52

    OMG! I just realized I need to move to The Netherlands!

  • @thepainteduniverse3648
    @thepainteduniverse3648 7 днів тому +19

    Sunday is my Nikse day. I’ve carefully trained everyone I know to leave me alone on that day, and not contact me unless the world is ending (or maybe even if it is). It’s amazing. 😁❤👍☕

  • @chx7977
    @chx7977 11 днів тому +83

    I think my DNA is Dutch. As a hsp I do all these but the guilt and shame is strong in a society where productivity is an achievement. Glad to know im not alone 💜

    • @typower9
      @typower9 10 днів тому +2

      What is an hsp?

    • @chx7977
      @chx7977 10 днів тому +7

      @@typower9 highly sensitive person

    • @debbietodd8547
      @debbietodd8547 9 днів тому +3

      Couldn't have said it better, my thoughts exactly.....A Canadian HSP who uses knitting and walking as a tranquilizer🧶🌲

    • @ewuniak70
      @ewuniak70 9 днів тому +3

      I feel the same way
      The first time I went to Holland I actually cried when I was taking off
      I feel more at home in holland than in my own country ( Poland)

    • @marcinish-stedman7157
      @marcinish-stedman7157 5 днів тому +1

      I feel you ❤

  • @jennifervelez-oliver3342
    @jennifervelez-oliver3342 12 днів тому +61

    Crocheting on the balcony with tea is my favourite

  • @lindaanderson279
    @lindaanderson279 10 днів тому +39

    My Father stayed with a Dutch Family during WW2 and loved them .I was never able to find them but. Always have a soft spot in my heart for the Dutch . He said they moved to New Zealand after the war .🇨🇦

    • @Williamottelucas
      @Williamottelucas 7 днів тому +4

      My father's family from Arnhem hid a Jewish family for the duration of WW2. He his sister moved to New Zealand in about 1950.

  • @czechliffey5711
    @czechliffey5711 14 днів тому +73

    As a cancer survivor I even more realize the importance of Gezellig❤

    • @arizonashopper5095
      @arizonashopper5095 10 днів тому +3

      I'm in active treatment for IDC breast cancer, and I totally agree!

    • @jennifersmith8687
      @jennifersmith8687 9 днів тому +6

      This was one of my realizations during and after treatment for breast cancer. It feels very much against the norm that we have in America - Now I celebrate small moments of life, slow down, and make the ordinary special.

  • @pinkroses135
    @pinkroses135 10 днів тому +40

    Gezellig reminds me a little bit of the old fashioned, pre internet, businesses closing down for the day, sunday dinner vibe

    • @Spungebobonicerocks
      @Spungebobonicerocks 7 днів тому +5

      Oh man, before internet sunday dinner vibe was every day. Nowadays business actually never close

    • @sg639
      @sg639 7 днів тому +2

      ​@@Spungebobonicerocks That's exactly right. The phone makes people accessible to business 24-7.

  • @tubulardude44
    @tubulardude44 9 днів тому +21

    Gezellig: NO screens allowed! Yes! Thank you! I wish the American culture would adopt gezellig! ❤

  • @roberta9428
    @roberta9428 13 днів тому +60

    I’m in the US and practice Niksen almost every weekend. Sadly though the US mindset is to always be busy, most people will think you’re either boring or lazy if you say you did nothing or just relaxed all weekend.

    • @kimhayes3828
      @kimhayes3828 10 днів тому +9

      The more I mature, the less I care about what others think. I have come to realize the opinion that matters the most in life is mine ♥️! I am happy for you that you relax on weekends!

    • @tgardenchicken1780
      @tgardenchicken1780 9 днів тому +1

      I agree, I need my slow time. Most of my life is slow and lovely. I try not to be worried about what others think of me. I am becoming quite good at it.

    • @sg639
      @sg639 7 днів тому +1

      Agreed. The economic system cultivates this sensibility and surveillance.

  • @elladesetoiles
    @elladesetoiles 14 днів тому +77

    I was so grateful when you briefly mentioned "niksen" in a previous video. I'm someone who rests a lot at home during the weekends (l'm an HSP) and I always felt bad when people asked me on Monday morning what I did during my weekend. After you introduced "niksen" I started to say that, at least in my head, and "I just rested" at loud, but it helped me so much to know that "doing nothing" was also a real activity somewhere else in the world, that the word existed and I could say it too!
    I'm so glad you developed the concept more here today! Thank you! 💛

    • @SimpleHappyZen
      @SimpleHappyZen  14 днів тому +6

      Ah I love that! Sometimes it helps to have a word for something :) Definitely okay to take time to rest during the weekends, it's so important! :)

    • @softsophisticate
      @softsophisticate 13 днів тому +6

      Here in the UK younger people would probably say "chilling out".
      I would probably say "me time"

    • @TheDriftwoodlover
      @TheDriftwoodlover 10 днів тому

      I got tired of people asking me what I did on the weekend so resorted to saying “nothing exciting.”

    • @oksanakaido8437
      @oksanakaido8437 10 днів тому +2

      People in the USA would typically say they "just chilled" on the weekend😄

    • @mennovroom5537
      @mennovroom5537 9 днів тому +1

      HSP tip. Listening to podcasts is great way of ‘niksen’

  • @willowsc
    @willowsc 15 днів тому +70

    Such a beautiful way of living, All the habits are around the fact that the most important thing is to enjoy your life. Thank you so much for this video! ❤

    • @SimpleHappyZen
      @SimpleHappyZen  15 днів тому +4

      So glad you enjoyed it, thanks for being here and have a wonderful day!

  • @kimberlylopez3230
    @kimberlylopez3230 10 днів тому +21

    I think I may have been Dutch in another life LOL. I have been doing most of these for almost 30 years; I had a health scare 28 years ago and learned very quickly that work-life balance is very important and working efficiantly, so I can have a calm work day, is key. Clocking off work and returning to my "real life" is my goal everyday. My hobbies are reading, cooking, and i recently took up gardening (allthough I'm not very good at it) When we moved to our house, we now have a yard for the first time and we inmediantly got hammocks for lounging under the trees. 🥰

  • @sl9906
    @sl9906 15 днів тому +60

    I love your definition of Niksen. I now have a name for my favorite part of life (thanks from the USA 🇺🇸 ❤) Gotta go and daydream now ☺️ I love all your “Dutchie” moments for peace. We have a saying that wind “blows away the cobwebs” and clears your mind. Much love to you Vera, it’s always lovely to spend time with you ❤

    • @SimpleHappyZen
      @SimpleHappyZen  15 днів тому +4

      I love it! 🤗🥰

    • @cassieAre
      @cassieAre 12 днів тому

      What part of the USA are you from? Also USA here- Midwest 😅

    • @sl9906
      @sl9906 12 днів тому +1

      @@cassieAre Northeast

  • @jennyp4934
    @jennyp4934 10 днів тому +19

    I'm a first generation Australian and both my parents are Dutch. This video explained so much to me about my parents and even myself. Thank you.

  • @rachelchanel7941
    @rachelchanel7941 12 днів тому +28

    I thought it was super cute when you demonstrated how Dutch people will sit out in the sun when it’s nice. After watching this video, I really want to visit the Netherlands!

    • @NoctLightCloud
      @NoctLightCloud 11 днів тому +2

      tbh people in all countries in Europe do that, it's nothing specific to the Netherlands

    • @mat.se57
      @mat.se57 4 дні тому

      I have no words hahahaha what do you mean with your first sentence? This is the most natural thing a human can do

  • @bethlyons6395
    @bethlyons6395 11 днів тому +16

    I am Dutch, Irish, and English American, I want to go to Netherlands, All of what you said resonated with me.

  • @missk7018
    @missk7018 14 днів тому +32

    As a dutchie myself it was really nice to think about our culture. I never realised how typical dutch these things are and the fact that gezellig is so hard to describe was mindblowing. Hihi thanks for showing me our own culture ❤

    • @SimpleHappyZen
      @SimpleHappyZen  14 днів тому +1

      Ah you're so welcome, happy you enjoyed it!! :)

  • @ltorresmsw
    @ltorresmsw 12 днів тому +41

    The habit I like the most is savoring a cup of coffee or tea in a bakery with a friend!

  • @juliemarkham4332
    @juliemarkham4332 14 днів тому +49

    I "niksen" every Saturday with my Sabbath!

    • @Veronica705
      @Veronica705 14 днів тому +10

      Me too.Shabbat shalom.❤

    • @Scarletcroft
      @Scarletcroft 14 днів тому +14

      I'm not even Jewish and I always say that Saturday is generally my resting day (Sabbath). Some people do their nothing day on Sunday, but I found I just prefer to do my chores on Sunday after I have rested on Saturday. I'm not very strict about it. Sometimes I have a busy Saturday, but then I make sure that my Sunday is free for doing nothing instead.
      Nothing day is very important to me.

    • @briannab5296
      @briannab5296 10 днів тому +1

      ​@@Scarletcroft .. one doesn't have to be Jewish to observe the true Saturday sabbath!

  • @purronnaspaw
    @purronnaspaw 14 днів тому +16

    I love going to the beach with the wind blowing. It makes me feel alive with the wind touching my face. I live in the USA worried about this country... and my brother always wanted to move to the Netherlands...Amsterdam. He absolutely loved it there. I believe I'd love it too. ❤

  • @TorMax9
    @TorMax9 7 днів тому +4

    On the West Coast, we call niksen "spacing out", let your thoughts and feelings and memories flow unconstructively, like little white clouds floating across across a big blue sky, you'll be surprised how many great ideas appear when the closed categories are cleared out of the way.

  • @ritaparker478
    @ritaparker478 10 днів тому +6

    Not Dutch but do this frequently. We used to have few to no stores or businesses open on Sunday's, everyone had a day of rest to use as they wished, church, beach, hang out at home, and so forth. Then this changed and now everything runs 24/7. I miss that quiet break in the week, the world where I lived was at Peace.

  • @userlara79
    @userlara79 2 дні тому +2

    The hobby I' ve just raken up is watching your videos. I' m learning English and I love the way you're speaking.

  • @BATgirl57
    @BATgirl57 11 днів тому +16

    I love this video! Even though I am 100% Dutch my ancestors came to USA so this country and culture is really all I’ve known... that said, whenever I’ve had the chance to visit the Netherlands, I’ve felt more at home than ever. I’ve been trying to connect to my inner Dutch-ness so it’s curious? that this video popped up! Thank you dear!!💖✌️🌷

  • @amybernard4638
    @amybernard4638 2 дні тому +3

    Oh my goodness, You basically just described me in so many ways! From Pennsylvania, US and have dutchy root. It feels so comforting to hear you say all of these things. My heart's desire is more of this for our culture and society here. I'll be sharing some of your videos soon, thank you, thank you. You've inspired me to want to learn Dutch!

  • @seriouslywhatever1031
    @seriouslywhatever1031 14 днів тому +39

    The Netherlands sounds like heaven compared to England 😭😭😭
    I actually bought a Dutch phrasebook because your channel really makes me want to visit/live in The Netherlands one day.

    • @galaxy98765
      @galaxy98765 14 днів тому +13

      England is a beautiful country.
      The UK is a nice place to live and visit. Everyone is always so nice to me whenever I am in England, and the relaxing afternoon teas are delicious and quite an experience.

    • @siany123
      @siany123 14 днів тому +5

      All these things Vera talks about depend on the lifestyle you make for yourself, not the country you live in. I live in the UK and i have never subscribed to the rat race. Life is for enjoying daily.

    • @mfspiteri
      @mfspiteri 9 днів тому

      Hi, I do all the things you discussed in the video. You are describing Mediterranean lifestyle but with dutch names. I am from Malta and I have been to the Netherlands many times.

  • @honeyhoney1529
    @honeyhoney1529 11 днів тому +12

    Growing up in Belgium, we would always notice a lot of the Dutch people who would come to Belgium on Sundays.
    They would enjoy going to the Sunday market, the zoo, café, restaurant, museums, and other public places.
    In Italian they say "La dolce far niente" meaning, how sweet it is to do nothing.

    • @zonderbaar
      @zonderbaar 9 днів тому +2

      Hi, this is so true ! It's "la dolce vita" sweet life and "il dolce far' niente " sweet doing nothing . cari saluti 😊

  • @cristal.garcia
    @cristal.garcia 9 днів тому +10

    Thank you for this video, I'm used to doing so much productive things every time I'm home, I work a lot and get home and work more, I had an emergency surgery 3 days ago, I can't do anything, I'm having such a hard time on myself, need to learn the art of doing nothing without feeling guilty

  • @elistia
    @elistia 14 днів тому +11

    This 100% makes me want to visit the Netherlands, which was never on my wish list! The culture sounds more in alignment with my mindset than the culture I'm in. 😢 Thanks for posting this video. Gave me a weird "hope," for lack of a better word.

    • @SimpleHappyZen
      @SimpleHappyZen  14 днів тому +1

      Thank you, glad you enjoyed the video! I hope you get to visit the Netherlands some day :) Wishing you a lovely day

  • @pprehn5268
    @pprehn5268 9 днів тому +7

    Ik ben een geboren Amsterdammer, en I live in Americas since I was 9, I still speak Dutch at 80 years of age. I learned English in 6 weeks, I stidied Latin for a year and its role in all languages. Next came German, and travelling led to Spanish. Gezellig roots are a joining of souls and for me, even now, I try hard to keep gezellighijd a priority in my household.

  • @x.tamarr
    @x.tamarr 13 днів тому +15

    Fellow Dutchie here!😊 ahhh I love this video! Living in the USA now, seeing this makes me miss our culture and country 🥹 thankyou for making this video, love it!❤

  • @CB-zb8in
    @CB-zb8in 14 днів тому +20

    Lovely ideas Vera. Wouldn't it be great if we could take the best from each country's culture 😊

  • @athanasiapipiki8182
    @athanasiapipiki8182 12 днів тому +10

    Books 📚📖 Cats 😻😽😹 Coffee ☕ and Crosswords ♥️♥️ I didn't know I have been practicing Niksen for years ‼️ That's my sacred time of the day ✨✨ Thank you for your beautiful video my loveliest ♥️♥️🥰🥰 Have a lovely week ahead 🩷🌸🌷

  • @contempl8ive
    @contempl8ive 12 днів тому +9

    I’m half Dutch living in Canada and practice Niksen daily. I didn’t know it was a Dutch thing😊. I’m also practicing Dutch on Duolingo and a tiny bit of Japanese:)

  • @teresaromero8655
    @teresaromero8655 14 днів тому +24

    I call it “ me time “ when I can lay low and do nothing !
    Love it ! ! !
    Thank you , Vera
    😊👋

  • @WatchJolene
    @WatchJolene 15 днів тому +18

    As a fellow Dutchie I totally agree with this video! Uitwaaien on the beach is one of my favorite things to do and yes everything needs to be gezellig!

    • @SimpleHappyZen
      @SimpleHappyZen  14 днів тому +1

      Nice to hear you agreed with these points! :) Have a nice weekend!

  • @ReneeScarted
    @ReneeScarted 14 днів тому +10

    I live in the Netherlands as an expat, never heard of Niksen yet but could relate to so much in this video. Really love the culture and especially the directness, no going around in polite circles :D And yes, the Netherlands definitely teaches you to appreciate the nice sunny days!

    • @SimpleHappyZen
      @SimpleHappyZen  14 днів тому +1

      That's lovely :) Good to hear you're not shocked by our directness haha :) Hopefully we'll have some actual sunny days soon...

  • @henna7216
    @henna7216 12 днів тому +10

    I lived in Amsterdam for seven years, and some of the things you mentioned on your video are the things I appreciated about the Dutch culture, such as niksen and gezellig. :)

  • @williamclark1244
    @williamclark1244 14 днів тому +9

    I practice Niksen every weekend unless I am out of town. Nice to have a name for it.

  • @pietwandelaar1743
    @pietwandelaar1743 День тому +1

    First generation Canadian here, a son of Dutch immigrants who left the Netherlands for Canada after the devastation of WW2. Thank you for an enjoyable video that reminds me of my ethnic heritage.

  • @antiquesrestoration3874
    @antiquesrestoration3874 11 днів тому +48

    I'm 25% Dutch and the more I learn about Dutch culture, the more I wish I lived in Holland.

    • @readygi
      @readygi 10 днів тому +6

      as someone who lived in NL fo a bit, it was awful. Lot of the things we hear is just a propaganda.

    • @x.tamarr
      @x.tamarr 10 днів тому +1

      The Netherlands is an amazing place to live! I do miss my homeland

    • @GaiaNaVi
      @GaiaNaVi 9 днів тому +1

      Having lived in several different countries, I say GO FOR IT! The people are amazing and the culture is wonderful.

    • @mennovroom5537
      @mennovroom5537 9 днів тому

      Come on over and joint he good life

  • @user-tm9cb7jx3z
    @user-tm9cb7jx3z 14 днів тому +16

    Thank you Vera! And yet again an inspiring and cheering up video. - I understood most of the Dutch words you used there, as I am from Germany and in fact grew up in a town 30km away from the Dutch border. - My father took up learning Dutch since a few years before his retirement to make a gesture of appreciation to all the the Dutchies we met on our day trips and holidays in the Netherlands who spoke perfect German to us.
    Your description of "Niksen" made me chuckle as it reminded me of a conversation I had had with my daughter. She is eleven years old and was totally confused how much I enjoyed sipping a cup of coffee on our terrace and just watching the laundry dry in the wind. She asked me, if I was done yet, and I told her, "This is nothing I need to get done. Watching the laundry dry in the sunshiny wind is one of my favourtite hobbies." She opened her mouth to verbalise her perplexion, but let it be, as I had contentedly closed my eyes on her and the outside world.
    So, yes, sunshine, wind and watching someone else "work", while you just do nothing in particular, is definitely an awesome weekend hobby.

  • @ms.schnapp7415
    @ms.schnapp7415 14 днів тому +8

    Love the concept of niksen. I am perfectly fine not having plans and enjoying quiet time at home. My favorite is having the house to myself and taking the time to do some organizing or deep cleaning with an audio book in the background, and spending time with my dog. Then napping.

  • @elaineschmidt-ramirez4555
    @elaineschmidt-ramirez4555 3 дні тому +3

    I listen to UA-cam videos every day. Thank you for this extra special video. IT IS MY ABSOLUTE FAVORITE VIDEO EVER. E.V.E.R. !!!!! So inspiring. Making me think of all the simple things to do and special ways to enhance life ..... while making friends and myself feel better and better and better!

  • @mateoneedham6807
    @mateoneedham6807 4 дні тому +2

    What an absolutely beautiful video. This is one of the many reasons why I love UA-cam. Thank you for sharing. I feel like I've naturally got a bit of the Dutchie in me.

  • @nicolekiel1050
    @nicolekiel1050 2 дні тому +1

    Gezellig! I strive for this in my home, and hearing that my home is cozy and welcoming is the biggest compliment.

  • @JBass33
    @JBass33 11 днів тому +6

    All the photos, videos, etc. that accompanied your video brought back pleasant reminders of my first (and so far only) stop in Amsterdam with my wife about three years ago. We were there for four days and enjoyed every minute. Like all visitors, especially those of us who live in America, we had to quickly learn how to stay out of the way of bicycles. It only took a few near misses to figure out what we had to do and what to not do. We sometimes had trouble finding our way around because Amsterdam street names often appear on the sides of buildings instead of being on a separate sign. The maps on our phones was usually sufficient but we sometimes had to ask for directions. I was initially reluctant to do so, but everyone was very understanding and the directions were usually simple and direct. Instead of saying to turn left or right at a certain street, we were usually told something like, “… stay on this street, go over the next two bridges, and turn left.” We had a great time and look forward to coming again. I look forward to watching your other videos. Thank you.

  • @MW-greatteacher10
    @MW-greatteacher10 4 дні тому

    I am a 58 yo female living on the coast of GA (USA). I was born and raised here. I am of Northern European/Scandanavian decent. I just watched this and realized that I already practice these Dutch habits. It was like you were describing my tribe of peeps.. thank you!

  • @JillWallace
    @JillWallace День тому +1

    Your video helped explain so much of my outer Dutchie ( great great grand parents Dutch) . The second the sun is out I need to be out, windy days are truly fun to walk and ride in! Thanks for explaining the Dutch words and all of the language information you shared.

  • @mimisart
    @mimisart 10 днів тому +5

    This was such a great breath of air. I’m Dutch (geboren en getogen) but now live in Canada 🇨🇦. I forget my roots sometimes.

  • @dmt0430
    @dmt0430 9 днів тому +5

    According to your description I live a “Dutch” life and attitude. I’d really fit in there. I understand I have Dutch blood but never explored this part of my heritage. GREAT VIDEO!

  • @V8-friendly
    @V8-friendly 14 днів тому +9

    Niksen?👍 I have perfected this on Fridays. Just hiding behind my computer screen at work and simulating to do some work. By the end of the day, I am well rested and happy to start my weekend. 🍹 ☀️ 😎

  • @annlavine3576
    @annlavine3576 15 днів тому +20

    Going out in a windy day sounds good

  • @darrenpierson2650
    @darrenpierson2650 8 днів тому +3

    I Gezellig every time I watch your video. It’s like listening to friend which makes the day better! Thanks for all you do!

  • @brigittemorales8508
    @brigittemorales8508 8 днів тому +1

    I loved listening to this and remembering! I am Swiss born and live in the US now, but my dad's job took us to the Netherlands shortly after my birth where I went to school and lived until age 11. My mom maintained most of these habits, and they have been a part of our lives ever since. I especially like uitwaaien and go outside for a walk every day, rain or shine. I miss short workweeks and terasjes. Oh, and peanut butter simply does not compare to pindakaas!!

  • @carolinnanl9899
    @carolinnanl9899 10 днів тому +5

    I’m a Portuguese leaving in The Netherlands for a while now. You list the biggest reasons why I chose to live here. Even the Dutch directness. No where is perfect but at least in the foreseeable time all of these are the best for me. 💙

  • @LauraDover
    @LauraDover 11 днів тому +4

    I love that you aim for a healthy work-life balance. I have put Niksen time in my diary !

  • @TamaraJoy7
    @TamaraJoy7 13 днів тому +1

    That was wonderful! All 6 things sound like fun to incorporate in my life from now on! You were also absolutely glowing with happiness while talking about your country’s habits. ❤❤❤

  • @hannahcoleman2940
    @hannahcoleman2940 10 днів тому +4

    Thank you, in the UK we use the word nix, means nothing, for example, “what are you doing” they answer “nix” thank you for a great video, sometimes I feel guilty after a long week then spending a Day doing nothing, now I have a word for it “Niksen” and I’m now going to embrace it.🙏💚☘️

  • @karinknight1970
    @karinknight1970 9 днів тому +3

    I have lived away from Holland for 50 years now….but niksen, the top 10 hobbies (first 4 nailed it!) birthdays, sitting in circles, gezelligheid….all these things are part of my life. No wonder my Canadian friends find me so Dutch. (Yup. Direct, too. No time for nonsense 😜) en patat met mayonnaise…zo lekker!

  • @SilviaN1
    @SilviaN1 14 днів тому +3

    I once took dutch lessons and I have been visiting The Netherlands a couple of time, so I knew some of them but not all. Gezellig is my favorite. Love that word 😅

  • @irenesarkar7858
    @irenesarkar7858 3 дні тому +1

    This video gave me so much joy. I try and do a lot of balancing always. Gardening, reading, spending quality time with my son, listening to music, and a lot more... I used to learn japanese and was quite good at it.. Will start it again... This kind of life is a bliss... Netherlands is one of my to go places now.. Along with a lot more😊

  • @user-fy7mk7xq3z
    @user-fy7mk7xq3z 14 днів тому +6

    So interesting to learn about these cultural habits. 🇳🇱 I love that what you do outside of work, or what makes you unique, has such importance! ⭐

  • @TJ-kz1ul
    @TJ-kz1ul 14 днів тому +1

    This was so inspiring!!! I live on the Canadian prairies. We don't have words like this here, but I read a book on Niksen several years ago and I now practice it every day to some degree.

  • @cwc1646
    @cwc1646 День тому +1

    Can see how many of these run through our family’s Dutch roots ! Thank you

  • @arcana4944
    @arcana4944 14 днів тому +8

    Hi! I'm currently on holiday in your beautiful country in Zeeland, as a French myself, and I've never had such a relaxing holiday...I love it ! 😊 ❤
    Happy Koningsdag by the way 😉

    • @SimpleHappyZen
      @SimpleHappyZen  14 днів тому +1

      Oh that's so nice to hear!!! Enjoy the rest of your holiday here!!

  • @ljclauson
    @ljclauson 9 днів тому +1

    I love you and your video!
    I’m in Seattle, but my daughter married a Dutchie from Rotterdam and everything in this video is priceless! Thank you.

  • @jenniferperry8038
    @jenniferperry8038 13 днів тому +6

    Hello. I am from America but genetically I am 1/4 Belgian Dutch. I think this aspect of my dna must be strong because I naturally lean towards everything you just taught me. I have always felt out of place in such a rushed culture. Now I just know my genes are pushing me to embrace my dutchie-ness! Thank you for making me feel more at home with myself. ❤

  • @dorob.9050
    @dorob.9050 12 днів тому +6

    Oh I love this video ♥ My husband and I live in Germany about 40 minutes from the Netherlands. At least two times a month we come over to enjoy a day in a country, that is SO unlike ours (apart from being direct, that is SO us, too) :) As soon as we enter the Netherlands, our mood changes, our stress levels go down and we don´t rush through the day as we normlly do (we could definitely use more niksen, I think... ;) ). I don´t know what it is, but it certainly happens every single time! Next step is learning Dutch together, as we hope to live in the Netherlands some day! My favourite part of this video ist the Gezelligheid, which I will try to focus on more from now on :) Thank you for your inspirational videos, please keep on making them ♥

  • @francineh.7825
    @francineh.7825 15 днів тому +2

    What a interesting and fun video! I like the Dutch word niksen and need to adopt that one for sure. You explained the mood of your Dutch words so well.

  • @MasterMetaphysician
    @MasterMetaphysician 11 днів тому +4

    Lovely, thank you!!! I love the concept of query about others' interests as opposed to their making money career!!! I decided when I was younger, to earn, save, and retire from the business world so that I could engage in niksen as a full-time lifestyle. Therefore, I really appreciate this concept, where one makes one's true life, one's true practice!!! So, my husband and I bought our home early (lived here for 49 years. We live in the Northern hemisphere of USA, Colorado, so, 9 months of winter, basically. When Spring arrives, gardening in our Japanese-inspired garden takes priority for three months, enjoying the early morning cool beauty. Come late August, I drape the garden beds with black tarps to catch all of the trash from the trees that surround our property, lifting them in spring, saving much labor. Of course, that is our favorite "hobby". Wintertime is the respite from the Spring-Fall toil in the large landscape, it feels so, good!!! Winter of course is the time for all to go within, and my winter niksen is walking indoors every a.m., spiritual studies and meditations 3 a.m. to 5 a.m., catching up on the world through UA-cam, and of course preparing nutritious meals throughout the year at home. We do not go to restaurants for any reason. Since we both have worked with many, many people in our early careers, we enjoy and life of Zen!!!!

  • @vilmalovejoymucaapura1884
    @vilmalovejoymucaapura1884 8 днів тому +1

    From the Philippines. I love niksen. A new word for me that takes the guilt of doing nothing.

  • @Alina-ni6nh
    @Alina-ni6nh 8 днів тому

    Living in Germany right at the border to NL and I love these tips from your culture which are acutally new to me. 🥰 Niksen is so nice, I will implement that in my vocabulary and my weekend plans.
    In general, whenever I go to a dutch city, I feel like the people are so open, friendly and seem so happy with their lifes... I really love that. ❤

  • @virginialangford6257
    @virginialangford6257 10 днів тому +2

    Grew up in the Netherlands…often used Dutch words and phrases as my children were growing up …now many years later they do the same…there are things/ ideas/ feelings that the Dutch language express more completely. Nixon is a word that my English speaking children use without even considering that the average American understands. When I was small Wednesday was early closing…shops closed early ( noon), schools were half day..I loved it.

  • @lottefleck3688
    @lottefleck3688 10 днів тому +4

    Gezellig…gesellig/gemütlich….not surprising, but still fascinating how similar Dutch and German are :)

  • @Tobhiyah
    @Tobhiyah 11 днів тому +2

    Niksen is our new word for pajama day or bed camping ❤ I used to live in Amsterdam so this brings back good memories 😊

  • @cyrilnarishkin6897
    @cyrilnarishkin6897 8 днів тому +1

    I grew up in Rotterdam and agree with everything you say!
    Erg bedankt for the many pictures of R’dam!

  • @carlienvandernet7902
    @carlienvandernet7902 14 днів тому +9

    As a Dutchie I love all of our typical behaviors but I really love the niksen on Sunday. I roll out of bed onto the couch and enjoy my day in pajamas with a book and some snacks. And I really appreciate the directness of us as well. Just glad to be Dutch and living in the Netherlands, I would not want to live anywhere else.

    • @wittesneeuw
      @wittesneeuw 3 дні тому

      You can live this lifestyle anywhere in the world...Just do it...

    • @carlienvandernet7902
      @carlienvandernet7902 3 дні тому +1

      @@wittesneeuw No you can’t live anywhere as we live in the Netherlands. Our freedom, social security, cultural behaviors are specifically something for the Netherlands, I never found that somewhere else. I love my life here and I just live the way I want to live.

  • @DianaLong-Artist
    @DianaLong-Artist 8 днів тому

    Dag! I lived in Nederland from 1992-94 with the USAF, Soesterberg. I loved it there and the relaxed lifestyle. I’m so happy I found your channel! It brings back nice memories and I can hopefully learn to relax again now that I’m retired from the work life! Thanks!

  • @amyhoover9
    @amyhoover9 14 днів тому +21

    I feel like the more I hear about your culture, the less American I want to be sometimes. The last time I found myself in a very Niksen mindset is when I had the house to myself the other day, though, I also had moments of being productive as well. 😅

    • @SimpleHappyZen
      @SimpleHappyZen  14 днів тому +2

      Oh yes, if you have moments of unforced productivity, that's nice too :) The best thing about it is that anything goes :)

  • @BetsyDudash
    @BetsyDudash 15 днів тому +5

    I still use "gezellig" though I haven't lived in Nederland (Utrecht) since 1991. It captures so much!

    • @SimpleHappyZen
      @SimpleHappyZen  15 днів тому +2

      Utrecht is beautiful 😊❤ Glad to hear you still love the gezellig culture! 🤗🌷

  • @saskiaseaglass9504
    @saskiaseaglass9504 14 днів тому +1

    Hi Vera, Love you videos! I did not know about most of these points, but knew I liked Dutch people very much from my short (too short) visit to the Netherlands. 💖

  • @chillibird2511
    @chillibird2511 14 днів тому

    The birthday celebration you mentioned sounds good as you're doing what is important and most memorable for the birthday person. You are simply being there to spend time celebrating ❤

  • @iamjane9628
    @iamjane9628 15 днів тому +16

    Oh my gosh! Now I know what to call my typical Saturday: A Niksen Day !! ❤

  • @maryswisher3358
    @maryswisher3358 8 днів тому +1

    My heritage is Scottish and if you want to lay around in bed past when it’s time you’re supposed to get up it’s called to hurkle -durkle! 😉.
    I am trying to focus on times to do nothing because I just seem like life is past me by and I’m just existing. I want to Live my life with passion and contentment.
    Thank you for what you do!

  • @user-or6km9nj9m
    @user-or6km9nj9m 5 днів тому

    I really enjoyed your video! Thanks for sharing! I’m from the USA , Arizona and Utah border. I grew up in a different cloture, I love the way my people are and I enjoy learning about other people and places! This world has so many great places with good people!

  • @mariejosevandelangerijt5112
    @mariejosevandelangerijt5112 9 днів тому +1

    I just came across your program for the first time! I am delighted! We visit Nederland every two years for a family reunion, travel and spend time with family. I am 75 years old, was born in Tilburg, and have been in Canada since 1952. However, I strongly identify as Dutch Canadian, more so as I get older. We will be attending the reunion in September!😊