Have you ever wondered why the Dutch are often considered one of the happiest societies in the world? the Dutch approach life differently than Americans. Instead of building their lives on comfort alone, the Dutch prioritize simple pleasures like biking in any weather rather than just trying to stay as comfortable as possible at all times. Not only that, but their type of lifestyle also fosters a sense of community and connection.
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I think movement for me, aside from enjoyable in itself and good exercise, is a way of signaling to my body that I'm not stuck in any given situation and that I can always improve. Driving and even being a passenger in cars is so inert and atomizing, separating me from others on the street, that it somehow messages to my body that I'm stuck or somehow not safe, like I'm frozen. And the comfort of a car signals to my body to stay in place, which is inertia I have to overcome. I'm very glad I lost my cars to hit and runs and now bike/walk and take transit everywhere.
Maybe it is because they don’t have to worry about health care or retirement or maternity leave or being overworked or a living wage. There is a feeling of commonality The boss lives in a house like you. Less competition. Just live and enjoy and care about other. All of the things that we lack in America.
According to a UNICEF report Dutch children were the happiest in the world. One of the contributors to that happiness was, indeed, their independence to go where they want to go on their bikes.
Other points I remember was that at home and at school their opinion is taken seriously, and quality time with parents.
Because their jobs don’t equate to slavery like it does for most Americans
Love my ebike cos i can put a ridiculous amount of clothes and ride in horrible weather. It makes me feel like child on an adventure 🎉🎉
Sugar free 🍬🌈❤️
This 100% – kids in the US are so sheltered and parents bend over backwards often to make them happy. Kids need their independence or they become too dependent.
I'd argue that we get comfort in one sense at the cost of stress and isolation, a different kind of discomfort, which is a terrible trade.
The problem here in America is people are entitled and spoiled. People won't budge one inch for the betterment of society as a whole.
Because they don't have to live in ermerica. Easy.
Comfort doesn't mean anything if you never experience a little discomfort
I sold my bike I year ago and love how getting anywhere is a little endorphin rush of energy. I have to say I’m not a fan of riding in bad weather but I that’s why community is so important
We in germany have the same saying i wonder where it originates from
I am Dutch and i am not happy
AMEN.
Then why do you look so unhappy my dude