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Relaxing and taking it easy can be delightful. Besides the obvious enjoyment, it may also come with health perks. For instance, many Americans are projected to spend an average of two hours and 33 minutes each day watching TV in 2023.
Taking a break to indulge in activities you love can release neurotransmitters like dopamine, which are associated with feelings of pleasure and contentment. This insight comes from Sanam Hafeez, a certified psychologist from New York City. A little downtime, whether it's watching TV, diving into an engrossing book, or scrolling through cat memes, can be rejuvenating. Yet, as with all things, moderation is key.
Here are the insights from Hafeez, other professionals, and studies on the benefits of periodic relaxation:
1. Embrace Downtime Without Guilt.
Over 60% of U.S. adults fall short of the recommended daily exercise. This has led the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to warn about the dangers of a sedentary lifestyle. The prevailing culture that equates productivity with value sometimes makes relaxation feel like a guilty pleasure. As Pasadena-based psychotherapist Lauren Cook points out, our society often equates productivity with value, leading many to feel like failures if they aren't constantly achieving. However, Cook emphasizes that "rest is productive." It's essential to claim downtime without feeling any associated guilt.
2. The Many Benefits of Relaxation.
Relaxation, when done right, isn't just about doing nothing. It offers several psychological benefits:
- Boosted Creativity: Hafeez notes that relaxation allows our brains to wander, possibly spurring creativity. A 2022 study even found that watching nature documentaries could promote relaxation and creativity.
- Enhanced Cognitive Abilities: A 2020 study found that older individuals who relaxed more frequently scored better on cognitive tests. This may be because downtime is often paired with mentally stimulating activities.
- Strengthened Connections: Watching trending shows or reading popular books can provide common topics for conversation, fostering connections with others. Discussing shared experiences can lead to increased oxytocin levels, promoting bonding and reducing stress.
- Reduced Burnout: Taking breaks can prevent burnout, allowing you to approach tasks with renewed energy.
3. The Risk of Over-Relaxation.
Too much downtime can also be harmful. Excessive screen time has been linked to depression. Moreover, the CDC has highlighted the risks associated with prolonged inactivity, such as heart disease and certain types of cancer. Thus, it's crucial to strike a balance and ensure relaxation doesn't lead to neglecting essential health and social activities.
4. Practice Mindful Relaxation.
When you choose to relax, immerse yourself completely. For instance, if you're watching a show, be fully present. This approach turns your downtime into a mindfulness exercise, which has various health benefits. Fully immersing yourself in relaxation can lead to a more contented and productive you, as emphasized by Marshall.
By incorporating these insights, one can find a healthy balance between relaxation and productivity.