Introduction
With one’s frenzied lifestyle, rush-hour living and the rise of the hustle culture glorified on the internet, it may often feel like everyone is ahead of the curve—except you. It’s only a matter of time before this constant fast-paced way of living starts taking a toll on people’s health and well-being. Extreme long hours, intense work pressure with little to no time-offs can leave any individual high and dry in a world filled with constant external stimuli.
In response to this problem, concepts and philosophies from various cultures promoting slow-living, finding balance, joy, peace and harmony started to gain popularity. And for a need of harmonious living, these concepts or ways of life got adopted by people across the globe. You might be familiar with the Japanese term Ikigai which means “reason of being” and revolves around the idea of finding purpose and joy. The Danish concept of Hygge which is defined as quality of cosiness, and a feeling of warmth and comfort that comes from partaking in the simple pleasures of life such as reading a book with a warm cup of tea, baking or spending time with family. Likewise, there is the Norwegian practice of Friluftsliv which means “open air living” and encourages spending time outdoors, close to nature to feel rejuvenation again. Then, there is the Italian concept of Dolce far niente, that translates to “the sweetness of doing nothing” and deriving joy and pleasure from life just by simply being.
What is Susegad?
In India, the closest concept that promotes slow-living, peace and contentment is the practice of susegad in Goa. While the coastal state is famed for being “the party capital”, it also offers opportunities to unwind, relax and reminds us to live our lives at a slow pace and savour every moment. The Konkani word susegad is derived from the Portuguese word “Sossegado” that roughly translates to ‘quiet’ or ‘calm’. A common day-to-day conversation between local Goans in Konkani language may involve the phrase Maka suseg di which means “give me peace”. This intrinsic need for a slow place and peaceful life is the essence of the Goan way of life. Perhaps, this is the very spirit of Goa that attracts many city folks, who flock to Goa seeking the much-needed peace and relaxation.
How Susegad Became a Part of Goan Lifestyle?
The state of Goa is located on the southwest part of India on the Konkan coast. Due to its geography, Goa has a warm and tropical climate. In earlier times, farming and fishing were the primary occupations of Goans. To engage in their work, waking up early for ploughing and sowing the field was necessary. The days are scorching hot and humid, so to avoid the heat, the afternoon nap, or siesta, became a common practice and eventually a norm. This laidback, peaceful and contented way of life became the overarching theme of susegad. The work will get done when it needs to; there is no rush, hustle and bustle, heated arguments or pressure. But don’t confuse the practice of susegad with indolence or procrastination. Goans are some of the most hardworking and diligent people. For them, susegad is rather a way to rest, relax and recharge to get back to work with full focus and vigour.
Spend an afternoon in Goa outside (in the cool season) to realise what susegad truly means. There is hardly any vehicular traffic, honking, commotion or chatter on streets. All you could hear is the soothing sounds of swaying trees, windchimes, chirping birds and bells. The Goan vibe makes you pause and reflect back on the aspects which truly bring you peace and contentment. This contented way of life and philosophy allows Goa to beautifully preserve the syncretic culture of different faiths, practices and influences. Till this date, the community bond and egalitarianism holds strong in Goa.
Experience Susegad In Goa
It hardly matters whether someone is a native Goan or a person from outside who decides to make Goa their second home. Sooner or later, people from all parts of India who embrace Goa for holiday homes and seek to spend their golden year of life, adopt the practice of susegad. Make this state your new home by investing in a comfortable luxury villa in Goa that will serve you as your holiday home, retirement home or perhaps a permanent residence. Enjoy slow-living in Goa amidst peace and tranquillity without compromising on the modern comforts of life.
Explore Veera Developers‘ range of exquisite luxury villas with a private pool that becomes a sanctuary of respite and relaxation. Our opulent villas intertwine the Indo-Portuguese concepts in its architecture and offer open-air spaces to stay connected with nature. Take advantage of this opportunity and reward yourself with a home filled with peace, contentment and harmony.