What are you doing right NOW (besides reading this post)? Do you ever get that nagging sense that you should be doing SOMETHING constructive? Welcome to the modern world, where our value is often determined by our productivity.
One of the reasons my husband and I go camping regularly is to give ourselves down time away from household and family responsibilities. We may explore a new area and do some activities, but we also take lots of time to relax and do very little. My husband has been a great complement for my personality, because he reminds me to stop very often.
Pausing for stillness to just BE is also why I start my classes with that quiet time for centering, and end with relaxation (Savasana).
According to this article from Henry Fold Health: “. . .research shows that eliminating distractions, taking time to do nothing and even daydreaming—just letting your mind wander—improve mental health, productivity and creativity.”
More information from the article:
Benefits Of Doing Nothing
Periods of doing nothing shouldn’t be confused with laziness or lack of drive. Instead, Dr. MacLean advises recognizing the mental health benefits of daydreaming, which include:
Aiding problem-solving: Breaks improve your ability to think logically, problem solve and make decisions.
Boosting creativity: When you allow your mind to wander, you’re more likely to think of an innovative idea. After all, Sir Isaac Newton’s theory about gravity was inspired after he observed an apple falling while just walking in an orchard.
Improving learning: Have you ever felt overwhelmed after listening to a long lecture or reading for hours? Taking a break gives your brain time to process, consolidate and store the information you’ve learned.
Increasing productivity: Research has found that taking breaks improves concentration and attention, making you even more efficient and productive when you return to a task.
Inspiring kindness: Taking time for reflection can inspire you to look beyond your own needs and help others. Being alone can spark a search for a larger sense of purpose. A break can prompt you to try meaningful activities that extend beyond your own life.
Uplifting mood: Everyone can feel overwhelmed by work, school and family responsibilities. But resting your mind helps you recharge and regulate your emotions. It also allows you to find pleasure in idleness and savor an experience.
I hope that you can find pleasure in doing nothing today!
Be Well,
Eva