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Hurkle-Durkling Is Freedom

Health Freedom Advice by Chris Bunton

Chris Bunton
2 min readFeb 17, 2024

It’s morning. The alarm goes off and you hit snooze.

This is referred to as Hurkle-Durkle. A phrase created by the Ancient Scots to describe the period of time spent lounging in bed, after waking, gathering your thoughts before rising for the day.

Although I doubt the Scots of old had alarm clocks forcing them to arise at unnatural rates like modern people do. I’m sure they rose up naturally early to do the chores needed to survive.

But after awaking, there is a blessed period of time where you get comfy and just relax. You might fall back to sleep, and actually feel better rested, than you did after a full night’s sleep.

Or you might let your mind wander and think of the day ahead or the day before. You might think of creative things or solve problems or gain new insight during this brief period of reflection after sleep. You might reflect on your life or spend time in prayer.

I will tell you that on my days off I do not set an alarm. I think that alarm clocks were invented by slave drivers who want you at work, toiling away, to make them rich.

Which is why I say that true Hurkle-Durkling is freedom. It’s a moment or two, that you own. You are choosing to relax and move slow. You are…

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Chris Bunton
Chris Bunton

Written by Chris Bunton

A writer, poet and blogger setting brush fires of freedom, spirit, and encouragement. You can also find me on Substack: https://chrisbunton.substack.com/

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