The Patriot’s Guide to Doing Absolutely Nothing 🦅

Nothing says “freedom” like skipping your to-do list

Let’s be honest: a lot of what we call “freedom” these days still looks like overachievement.

You know what I mean: running your own business so you can “set your own schedule,” only to never actually stop working. Booking a long weekend off, then cramming three weeks of prep and catch-up around it. Fielding client texts while grilling, or “relaxing” with one eye on your inbox.

This July 4, I’d like to propose something a little more… revolutionary.

Doing. Absolutely. Nothing.
(And not feeling guilty about it.)

I know, I know. Sounds un-American. Possibly illegal in 13 states. But hear me out.

You don’t need to earn rest. You’re already a person with inherent value and a taxed-to-death nervous system. That is sufficient.

So instead of scheduling the s’mores and fireworks down to the minute, what if you used this long weekend as a chance to actually declare independence—from hustle culture, from performative productivity, from the pressure to make every moment Instagrammable?

In fact, I’d argue that the most patriotic thing you can do this week is stop trying so hard. Because what’s more American than flipping the bird to unrealistic expectations?

This country was founded on rebellion, with the Founding Fathers saying, “Nah, I’m good” to oppressive systems.

So go ahead—rebel against the system that says rest has to be earned. Rebel against the glorification of burnout. Rebel against the idea that your worth is measured by your output.

There’s real freedom in that. And honestly? It might just be the kind of revolution your nervous system’s been waiting for.

So here's your official Patriot's Guide to Doing Absolutely Nothing:

• Step 1: Lie down.

• Step 2: Breathe in.

• Step 3: Breathe out.

• Step 4: That’s it. 🇺🇸

Want to feel extra rebellious? Try this:

🫁 The Lazy Liberty Breath
Inhale through your nose for 4 counts. Exhale slowly through your mouth for as long as you can. Let your shoulders melt. Let your jaw unclench. Let freedom ring in the space between your thoughts.

Do it 10 times in a row and tell me you don’t feel emancipated.

And hey—if you want to keep that calm going once the long weekend is over? Download your free 5 Breaths in 5 Minutes kit.

It’s full of simple, effective breathing techniques (a PDF, videos, and printable cards) that’ll help you regulate your nervous system in record time—no holiday required.

👉 Grab it here. 👈

And then…

I triple dog dare you to say no to at least one thing this weekend. Cancel one “should.” Pick pleasure over pressure, rest over rules, and stillness over striving.

Because you don’t need to be the grillmaster of the year. You need a regulated nervous system.

Okay, and maybe a popsicle. 🍧

Happy holiday!

Last Gasp

"The time to relax is when you don’t have time for it." — Sydney J. Harris