Chilling Out
Being busy is often worn as a badge. We can seem important if there are lots of commitments. It can boost our egos to feel that so much and so many depend on what we do. There is also the false belief that we can continue to operate efficiently and effectively for long periods without productivity being impacted.
The reality is different. The longer we work without relaxation the less productive we become.
The University of Utah looked at the effects of getting away from it all on our mental capacity. Groups of people were given creative tests to do before and after a period of time in nature. Their scores were 50% better after between 30 minutes and three days out in the fresh air in nature-away from technology and interruptions.
It makes sense! Our minds are powerful but will always divert to something new. If we are working and the phone rings we will likely answer it. Likewise we can be distracted by emails or other notifications.
To think clearly we need brain space. This is what time out gives us. This also applies to stress. Solutions to our problems are more likely to be found when we can think clearly and have some “breathing space” away from constant pressure.
Relaxation can be slotted into our schedule but we need to prioritize it. It can be a walk in nature, listening to music, playing with pets, doing meditation or anything else, which relaxes us.
For those who have trouble relaxing you can put relaxation time into your diary and then commit to it. After a couple of months it will become part of your routine and you will be better for it.