National Chill Day

Young woman lying in a hammock, surrounded by palm trees, wearing a flowy summer dress, beach background.. — National chill day illustration

Hey there, folks! Are you ready to chill? Today we're celebrating National Chill Day, a day dedicated to taking it easy, relaxing, and just going with the flow. So, sit back, put your feet up, and let's dive into the history and significance of this laid-back holiday.

When is Chill Day?

It's national chill day on the 1st October.

What is National Chill Day all about?

If there's one thing we can all agree on, it's that life can get pretty hectic. We're constantly rushing from one task to another, juggling work, family, and social commitments. But hey, we all deserve a break. And that's exactly what National Chill Day is for!

This fantastic holiday encourages us to slow down, take a deep breath, and enjoy the simple pleasures of life. Whether that means snuggling up with a good book, binge-watching your favorite TV show, or just lazing around in the sun, National Chill Day reminds us to make time for relaxation.

The internet's love affair with National Chill Day

The internet has embraced National Chill Day with open arms, and it's not hard to see why. People from all walks of life have taken to social media to share their favorite ways to unwind. From hilarious memes to heartwarming stories, the online community has truly made this day its own.

With 53 online mentions and the most buzz on October 1st, 2019, National Chill Day continues to gain popularity each year. It's a day that reminds us all to prioritize self-care and find a little slice of tranquility in our busy lives.

Did you know?

Here's a fun fact to chill you out even more: Did you know that the world record for the longest amount of time spent doing absolutely nothing is a whopping 168 hours? That's right, someone actually took the time to document an entire week of doing absolutely nada. Talk about dedication to the art of chilling!

History behind the term 'Chill'

1970

The Birth of a Slang Word

The term 'chill' originated in the 1970s as a slang word used by African American communities. It referred to the act of relaxing or cooling down, both literally and figuratively. 'Chill' quickly became popular amongst young people and spread throughout urban centers in the United States.

1960s

Step 1: The Emergence of 'Chill'

The term 'chill' first emerged in the 1960s as part of African-American slang. It was initially used to describe a relaxed and laid-back attitude or behavior. It was commonly associated with a sense of coolness and calmness, often used to describe someone who was not easily bothered or stressed by life's challenges.

1959

Cool jazz influences

In the late 1950s, a new form of jazz known as cool jazz emerged. This style of jazz featured a relaxed and laid-back approach, contrasting with the more frenetic bebop. The term 'chill' began to be used among musicians and enthusiasts to describe the cool and mellow vibe of this genre.

1980s

The Birth of a Slang Term

In the 1980s, the term 'chill' emerged as slang in the African American community. It was initially used to describe a relaxed and laid-back attitude or behavior. This term quickly gained popularity among young people and became a part of everyday conversation.

1990

The Emergence of 'Chill'

In the early 1990s, the term 'chill' made its way into popular culture, particularly among young people. It was used to describe a relaxed and laid-back attitude or atmosphere.

1918

Step 1: The Emergence of 'Chill'

The term 'chill' first emerged in the African American jazz scene in the United States during the 1910s. It originally referred to a relaxed and cool demeanor, often associated with jazz musicians who stayed calm and composed while performing. 'Chill' embodied the idea of being effortless and unaffected by the stress and intensity of the music.

1990s

Chill as a slang term

In the 1990s, the term 'chill' emerged as a slang term among young people in the United States. Initially used to describe someone who was relaxed, laid-back, or displaying a casual attitude, it soon became synonymous with a cool and carefree demeanor.

1980

Cool Down: The Origins

The term 'chill' has its roots in the 1980s jazz scene, where musicians would use it to describe the relaxed and laid-back nature of certain musical compositions. It was a way to convey a sense of coolness and tranquility, evoking a feeling of relaxation in the listener. Over time, the term started to be used more widely to describe a state of being calm, relaxed, and free from stress or worry.

1551

Birth of the term 'chill'

The term 'chill' originated in the 16th century and was originally used to describe a sensation of coldness or a feeling of being chilled. It came from the Old English word 'cield', which means cold. At this time, 'chill' was primarily used as a noun.

1950

Origin of the word 'chill'

The term 'chill' originates from African-American slang in the 1950s. It was derived from the phrase 'chilly blues,' which was a way to describe a feeling of coldness or unresponsiveness. Over time, the term 'chill' evolved to refer to a state of relaxation or coolness.

1990s

Spreading through Hip Hop Culture

In the 1990s, 'chill' extended its reach through hip hop culture. The term appeared in the lyrics of popular rap songs, reinforcing its importance in youth slang. As rap music gained mainstream attention, so did the word 'chill,' which started to resonate with a wider audience.

2000s

Adoption in popular culture

During the 2000s, the term 'chill' gained significant popularity and started to permeate various aspects of popular culture. It became a commonly used word in movies, TV shows, and music. The versatility of the term allowed it to be used in a variety of contexts, from describing a relaxed social gathering to indicating a sense of detachment or indifference.

1980s

Step 2: Chill in Hip-Hop Culture

During the 1980s, 'chill' became closely associated with hip-hop culture. It found its way into the lyrics and vernacular of hip-hop artists, particularly in the East Coast rap scene. The term became a popular descriptor for a smooth and relaxed style, often used to characterize impressive performances or a sense of confidence.

1690

Expansion of 'chill' to describe a state of relaxation

In the late 17th century, the term 'chill' started to take on a new meaning. It began to be used as a verb to describe the act of relaxing or taking it easy. This usage came from the idea that when a person is relaxed, they are less tense and their body temperature may drop, leading to a 'chill' sensation.

1980

Chill as a surfers' slang

In the 1980s, the term 'chill' gained popularity among surfers in California. Surfers used it to describe the calm and laid-back attitude associated with the surfing culture. It became synonymous with being relaxed, at ease, and enjoying the moment. This surfer slang helped spread the use of 'chill' beyond its original African-American cultural context.

1990

The Emergence of 'Chill' in Pop Culture

In the 1990s, 'chill' started gaining recognition and usage outside of specific communities and began to penetrate pop culture. It was often used in movies, music, and television shows, further popularizing the term. This increased exposure helped 'chill' transition from being purely slang to a more mainstream term.

1998

Chill as a Positive Descriptor

By the late 1990s, 'chill' had evolved beyond its original meaning. It became a positive descriptor, referring to something that was cool, calm, and enjoyable. The term entered the mainstream, being commonly used in conversations, media, and advertisements.

1980s

Hip hop and 'chillin'

In the 1980s, hip hop culture was rapidly gaining popularity, particularly in communities like the Bronx in New York City. The concept of 'chillin' became widespread in this context, referring to relaxing and enjoying oneself in a nonchalant manner. It became a common part of the hip hop lexicon, often used to describe hanging out with friends or taking it easy.

1950s

Step 2: The Beat Generation Influence

In the 1950s, the 'chill' concept gained wider cultural significance through the influence of the Beat Generation. Beat poets and writers like Jack Kerouac and Allen Ginsberg integrated the term into their countercultural movement, using it to describe a detached attitude and a rejection of mainstream conformity. The Beatniks embraced 'chill' as a way of life, reflecting their desire for freedom and non-conformity.

1990

Spreading Through Pop Culture

By the 1990s, the term 'chill' gained popularity and began to infiltrate mainstream pop culture. It was frequently used in movies, television shows, and music to describe characters or situations that embodied a sense of calmness or a laid-back attitude. The term became associated with a carefree and effortless coolness, often associated with characters who seemed unfazed by the pressures of life.

1990s

Step 3: Chill as a Social Phenomenon

In the 1990s, 'chill' evolved into a broader social phenomenon. It transcended its origins in African-American culture and became a mainstream term used by people of all backgrounds. 'Chill' was often used to describe a casual and laid-back atmosphere, a state of mind, or a general sense of relaxation and enjoyment. It became synonymous with taking it easy and unwinding.

1990s

The rise of 'chill-out' music

During the 1990s, electronic music genres such as ambient and downtempo gained prominence. As these genres emphasized atmospheric and relaxing soundscapes, they became known as 'chill-out' music. The term 'chill' took on a new meaning, referring to a state of relaxation induced by listening to this type of music. 'Chill-out' rooms or lounges became popular in clubs and festivals, providing spaces for people to unwind and enjoy the soothing sounds.

2005

Chill as a State of Being

In the mid-2000s, 'chill' took on a new dimension as it started to represent a state of being. It became synonymous with relaxation, tranquility, and ultimately, a way of life. 'Chill' started to appear in phrases like 'chill out' or 'be chill', encouraging individuals to embrace a more laid-back and stress-free approach to life.

2010s

Internet memetic culture

In the 2010s, with the rise of internet memetic culture, the term 'chill' took on a whole new dimension. It became a part of internet slang and memes, often used ironically or humorously to emphasize someone's calmness in absurd or extreme situations, or as a response to stressful events. The term spawned various humorous variations, such as 'ultra chill' or 'mega chill'.

2000

Rise of Internet Slang

With the rise of the internet and the emergence of online chatrooms and social media platforms, 'chill' started to take on a new meaning. It became a popular term in internet slang, used to describe a state of mind or attitude. People would use phrases like 'just chillin' or 'chill out' to convey a sense of relaxation or to encourage others to calm down. The term became deeply ingrained in online culture, influencing the way people communicated on the internet.

2000

Expansion into Online Vernacular

With the rise of the internet and online communication in the early 2000s, 'chill' found a new home in the online vernacular. It became widely used in chat rooms, forums, and social media platforms. The term's versatility and simplicity made it easily adaptable to digital communication, solidifying its place in the internet culture.

Early 2000s

The Internet's Influence

With the advent of the internet and its subsequent integration into everyday life, the term 'chill' found a new home in online communities and chat rooms. It quickly became a popular term in online conversations, with people using phrases like 'just chillin' to express a relaxed state of mind.

1990

Rise of 'chill' in mainstream culture

During the 1990s, the term 'chill' made its way into mainstream culture. It became a common term in youth and subcultures, particularly in the United States. 'Chill' was used to convey a sense of coolness, indifference, or being unfazed by stressful situations. It became an adjective to describe a relaxed and calm state of mind.

1980s

Step 3: Chill-Out Music

During the 1980s, the term 'chill' expanded its meaning into the realm of music. The emergence of chill-out music created a new genre characterized by relaxed and atmospheric sounds. Artists like The Orb and Brian Eno contributed to the popularity of chill-out music, which became associated with creating a calm and soothing ambiance. This musical genre further spread the notion of 'chill' as a state of relaxation and tranquility.

1960

'Chill' becomes associated with a laid-back attitude

During the 1960s, the term 'chill' gained popularity among the counterculture and hippie movements. It became associated with a laid-back and nonchalant attitude towards life. People used 'chill' to describe individuals who were cool, calm, and relaxed in their demeanor. This usage solidified the term's association with a carefree and easygoing lifestyle.

2000s

Internet slang and 'chill'

With the rise of internet communication and social media, new slang terms emerged. In the 2000s, 'chill' became widely used in online conversations, often as a shorthand for being calm, relaxed, or unworried. It found its way into popular phrases like 'Netflix and chill,' which humorously suggests a casual invitation to watch a movie together but implies a deeper meaning. The term gained traction and became pervasive in internet culture.

Mid-2000s

Joining the Mainstream Vocabulary

By the mid-2000s, 'chill' had permeated mainstream culture and become widely recognized and used. It transcended its initial slang status and became a part of everyday vocabulary. The term was no longer limited to specific communities or subcultures but had become a universal expression of relaxation and calmness.

Present

Widespread usage

Today, 'chill' has become firmly ingrained in modern vocabulary. It transcends generational boundaries and is used by people of all ages. It has also crossed borders and is recognized internationally, reflecting its global impact. Whether used sincerely to embody a relaxed attitude or ironically to convey a humorous twist, 'chill' continues to shape the way we express ourselves and interact in contemporary culture.

2000

The rise of 'Netflix and chill'

In the early 2000s, the expression 'Netflix and chill' emerged as an internet meme. It started as a euphemism for casual sexual activity but eventually evolved into a humorous phrase used to describe simply hanging out and watching Netflix. In popular culture, 'Netflix and chill' became a humorous way to invite someone over for a relaxing and low-key evening.

2010

'Chill' Goes Viral

With the rise of social media platforms, 'chill' took on a life of its own. Memes, gifs, and hashtags related to 'chill' flooded the internet. People began using the term in various contexts, extending its usage beyond a relaxed state of mind to describe anything that was desirable, enjoyable, or effortlessly cool.

1990

Emergence of 'chill' as a slang term

In the 1990s, the term 'chill' underwent a transformation and became more commonly used as a slang term. It started to be used to describe a state of being calm, cool, and collected. 'Chill' was often used to refer to someone who was easy to get along with, didn't get easily agitated, or simply someone who was 'chilling out'. This slang usage spread rapidly, particularly among younger generations.

1990s

Step 4: The Rise of 'Chill' in Slang

In the 1990s, the term 'chill' underwent a transformation and entered mainstream slang. It became an adjective used to describe anything or anyone that exuded an easygoing, laid-back, and cool attitude. 'Chill' encompassed a range of meanings, from being calm and relaxed to being unbothered and unfazed. It became a popular slang term, particularly among young people, and found its way into everyday conversations and social media usage.

2000s

Step 4: Digital Era and Chill

With the rise of social media and digital communication in the 2000s, 'chill' took on new meanings and applications. It became associated with online interactions, particularly in the context of dating and relationships. The phrase 'Netflix and chill' gained popularity, hinting at a euphemistic invitation for a casual encounter. The term also found its way into memes and viral content, creating a humorous and self-aware cultural phenomenon.

2010

The Evolution of 'Chill' in Millennial Culture

In the 2010s, 'chill' experienced further evolution in millennial culture. It transformed from a general term for relaxation into a adjective used to describe a person who is laid-back, easygoing, or nonchalant. Furthermore, 'chill' became associated with certain activities and vibes, such as chill music, chill cafes, and chill vibes, signifying a particular atmosphere or mood.

2010

Chill as a Lifestyle

In the 2010s, the term 'chill' evolved beyond a mere adjective and started to be seen as a lifestyle. People began embracing the concept of 'chill' as a way of approaching life, focusing on finding balance, reducing stress, and prioritizing self-care. 'Chill' became synonymous with mindfulness, meditation, and other practices aimed at achieving a state of inner calm. It has become a popular hashtag on social media, with millions of posts dedicated to promoting a 'chill' lifestyle.

Present

A Global Phenomenon

Today, the term 'chill' is recognized and understood across the globe. It has evolved beyond its original meaning and is now used to describe various concepts, such as spending leisure time, remaining calm in stressful situations, or simply enjoying tranquility. 'Chill' has become a word that embodies a desire for relaxation and a carefree attitude.

Present

Step 5: Chill in Contemporary Culture

In contemporary culture, 'chill' continues to be an integral part of everyday language. It has become an adjective and an adverb that embodies a sense of relaxation, ease, and nonchalance. Whether used to describe a laid-back attitude, a relaxed social gathering, or simply taking time to unwind, 'chill' has become a versatile term that reflects the desire for balance and tranquility in a fast-paced world.

Present

Ubiquitous Usage and Multifaceted Meanings

Today, 'chill' has become an ingrained part of everyday language. It is used across generations and has taken on various meanings and interpretations. It can still refer to relaxing or cooling down, but it can also describe a casual hangout, a calm and collected attitude, or even as a reassurance to someone who needs to calm down. 'Chill' continues to evolve and integrate into different cultures, demonstrating its versatility and cultural impact.

2000s

Diversification of 'chill' into various contexts

In the 2000s, the term 'chill' expanded its reach and started to be used in various contexts. It became a versatile word that could describe anything from a relaxed social gathering ('Let's have a chill night in') to a recommendation for someone to calm down ('Hey, just chill, everything will be alright'). Furthermore, the rise of internet culture brought about new phrases like 'Netflix and chill', which gained popularity and became a euphemism for casual intimacy.

Present day

An enduring cultural term

The term 'chill' has solidified its place in contemporary culture, transcending its musical and slang origins. It is now used in various contexts, representing a desire for calmness, relaxation, and an easygoing attitude. From 'chill vibes' to 'chillaxing,' the term continues to evolve, reflecting society's ongoing quest for balance and tranquility.

2010

'Chill' in contemporary language

In contemporary language, 'chill' has become a versatile term with various meanings. It continues to represent a state of relaxation and coolness, but it can also describe a laid-back attitude, a sense of detachment, or even being unaffected by something. It is widely used across different demographics, especially among young people, and has become a ubiquitous part of modern vernacular.

2018

Chill Culture and Self-Care Movement

In recent years, 'chill' has become an integral part of the popular self-care movement. It is associated with activities and behaviors that promote well-being and stress reduction. The concept of 'chill' has influenced wellness practices, encouraging people to prioritize their mental and emotional health. 'Chill' has become a symbol of the need for balance and rest in a fast-paced world.