Health

Doing Nothing is Just as Much a Quest as Slaying Dragons

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Do we ever feel guilty for wanting a day to ourselves where we don’t have to be anywhere or do anything? Instead of doing chores or even cook, we order out and just play video games all day? Or maybe catch up on your favorite TV show?

I still have 5 pieces I plan on completing for the sci-fi show next weekend but as I am still waiting for some materials to arrive before I can work on them I figured I might just enjoy my free time today and just do a few things that bring me joy. Playing video games and watching my favorite TV shows. Because Why not?

Some people might think this is a waste of time, I could be doing something more constructive or practical, but why? we all live in a society that is constantly trying to judge us for everything from how we live our lives, spend our money or utilize our time.

Taking time for ourselves to unwind and destress is so vital to our overall mental health. This was something I quickly learned at the end of 2017 which is what prompted me to start my 2018 Happiness Journey. I was so focused on looking after the needs of my family I did not stop to look after my own needs.

Here is a quote from an article I recently read (Linked at the bottom)

“You might be surprised to find that there are actual benefits of doing absolutely nothing. When you turn off all distractions, it allows space for your subconscious to expand, ultimately boosting your creativity. When distracted, our mind jumps to the most obvious answers when trying to solve problems.”

There are also many benefits to doing nothing. (List borrowed from another article linked at the bottom)

  1. You’ll be mentally stronger.
  2. You’ll be more compassionate.
  3. You’ll cope better with change and the unexpected.
  4. You’ll feel more well-rested.
  5. You’ll be happier..
  6. You’ll be more productive.
  7. You’ll be more creative.
  8. You’ll be better at solving problems.
  9. You’ll be more self-reliant.
  10. You’ll reboot your brain.
  11. You’ll concentrate better.
  12. You’ll think more deeply.
  13. You’ll be less stressed.

The Actual Health Benefits Of Doing ‘Nothing’

12 Secret Benefits of Doing Nothing (though it was actually 13)