Laziness, the mother of invention - 21st October 2022

In Itagüi Colombia folks mark the World Day of Laziness with enthusiasm, by setting up camp outside - in their beds, the sole purpose, be as idle as possible.

Marlon Ocampo is totally enamoured with the movement.

Marlon Ocampo: "The day of laziness is to show that not everything in life is work. There are moments to rest, to lie in bed and do nothing, that is the day of laziness."

Carlos Montoya and his mates set up the celebration in 1985 as the culmination of an arts festival, having realised they all craved an occasion dedicated purely to being creative, and celebrating free artistic expression. Montoya now credits laziness with being the mother of invention.

Carlos Montoya: "Laziness is the engine of progress. When you are too lazy to cook, you go to a restaurant. When you are too lazy to wash, you buy a washing machine. When you are too lazy to organise the house, you hire someone. So, the world day of laziness is the engine of today's economy."

Some residents are required to put in effort on this special occasion, like bed-making, dashing beds back and forth, or keeping those practising lethargy entertained. However, the community is summoned to participate in any lethargic way they choose. Installing themselves in the streets with their pillows, hammocks, beds, tents, anything that might be needed to remain comfy and content whilst they are entertained by artistic performances is all that is required.

For Fernando Duque, the organiser, an instant of laziness may be all it takes to spark an original idea.

Fernando Duque: "Historically, it is known that the great thinkers made their wonders in their leisure time. And that is precisely what we invite people to do, to engage in laziness with us and to creatively manifest the possibility of meeting us on a very nice day."

Considered as part of the "slow" movement, the World Day of Laziness is gaining attention in Europe and seeks to kick start a lifestyle change away from the prevailing rat race.

Were you to join in what would your day of laziness resemble?