Wasting Time May Be Good for our Health

No, we don't want to spend our whole lives wasting time. If we did, we would not only never get anything done, we wouldn't accomplish anything, we wouldn't meet our goals, we wouldn't succeed. Yet, we do need some down time.

Down time is good for our minds, bodies and our souls. Down time is a great way to relax. Relaxation is the key to managing stress and if we can learn how to manage stress we not only lead better fulfilled and productive lives, we also may be healthier and happier.

Most people know what down time activities pleases them. Yet, there is a small handful of people who are so driven that they have forgotten some of the basic downtime principals and activities that make them happy and are also fun.

Here are four great downtime activities that you shouldn't avoid, all together.

1. Napping.

By now, I am sure you all ready know the health benefits of napping. Napping helps give our bodies and minds a much needed rest. Napping can even nip a headache from turning into a vicious migraine, if done in its earliest stages.

Yet, napping is also fun. It gives us time to dream. Dreaming can be a lot of fun, especially if you are having the right kinds of dreams.

2. Daydreaming.

You remember daydreaming don't you? It is probably something you did as a child back in school. You could sit and stare out a window for minutes at a time, lost in a thought or a notion you have.

You didn't realize it then but studies have shown that while we are daydreaming and centered on one subject, our brain may actually be processing other thoughts and working out problems at the same time.

So when you feel stressed or just need a break, stare out that window and allow your thoughts to wander for a while.

3. Gossiping.

No, gossiping isn't always nice. But you have to admit it can be fun to do and to share. It also can raise our endorphin levels, which you may all ready know can help reduce stress and lower your heart rate. Plus, gossiping is a way to make friends and to relate with your friends. Just try not to be hurtful in your gossip.

4. Finally, playing on the computer. You know how much fun this can be for you. Some great ways to do this is by checking out frivolous celebrity gossip, message boards or playing games and oh, yes, reading my articles.

You work hard. Right? Don't you enjoy some time to kick back and enjoy some downtime?

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By: Linda M. McCloud
Published: 04/27/08