Find out about why you need some “mind time” in your schedule.
In 1907, the first washing machines hit the market. By far, the most time-consuming household task now took less than 5% of the time and energy.
As other time-saving inventions followed, men and women were suddenly able to accomplish what used to take hours in mere minutes.
We probably thought we’d be swimming in free time for the rest of our lives.
But that’s not what happened.
In today’s world, we live our lives at break-neck speeds. We cram more tasks into our day-to-day agendas than we could ever hope to accomplish. When a new time-saving tool comes online, we quickly implement it, then squeeze in another project, goal, or appointment.
And whatever time is left we spend burnt-out, scrolling on our phones. 📱
How does being constantly stimulated affect you?
The effects of being constantly busy and stimulated are far-reaching and often detrimental to our overall well-being.
While it may seem like you are maximizing our productivity by filling every waking moment with tasks and activities, you are actually neglecting an essential aspect of human existence: the need for rest and relaxation.
How you’re missing out by not letting your brain rest
Our brains and bodies require periods of downtime to recharge, process information, and organize memories. When we deny ourselves these crucial moments of respite, we risk burnout, diminished cognitive function, and heightened stress levels.
Not to mention, the constant stimulation from technology and the never-ending influx of information can lead to mental overload and decreased attention span. Instead of reaping the benefits of time-saving inventions, we find ourselves caught in a cycle of perpetual busyness, sacrificing our mental and physical health in the process.
It is crucial to recognize the importance of giving our brains a break and carving out moments of stillness amidst the chaos of modern life.
What does 'mind time' look like?
So how do we give our brains a break? Enter, mind time. Mind time is a proactive, shall-we-say sacred period of time where you focus on resting your brain.
Here are some easy ways you can incorporate mind time into your day.
Meditation:
One powerful practice for giving our brains a break is meditation. By dedicating time to sit quietly and focus our attention, you can cultivate a sense of calm and inner stillness. Through meditation, we learn to quiet our racing thoughts, reduce stress, and promote mental clarity.
Affirmations:
Affirmations are statements that reflect our desired mindset or qualities. By repeating affirmations, we can rewire our thought patterns and cultivate a more positive outlook. They serve as powerful reminders of our inner strength, potential, and worthiness, helping us combat negativity and foster self-belief.
Stillness:
Taking a moment of stillness can be as simple as a few deep breaths, a short mindful pause, or a moment of reflection. By intentionally slowing down and being present in the silence, you can reconnect with yourself and regain a sense of balance. Stillness allows you to recharge, rejuvenate, and tap into your inner wisdom.
“Nothing” Time:
In the hustle and bustle of our lives, embrace some "nothing time.” Different from “stillness” where you’re focusing on not doing anything, during this time, we simply give ourselves permission to be without the pressure of productivity. Embracing nothing time allows our minds to wander, fostering creativity and allowing our minds to recharge.
Slow Reading:
We don’t just mean reading slowly. Rather, reading one thing (preferably a hard copy that doesn’t have distracting apps on it) at a speed that’s comfortable for you. By slowing down our reading pace, we can savor words, dive into a story, and fully engage our imagination. Slow reading lets us disconnect from the digital realm and find solace in the pages of a book.
Low-key, Enjoyable Hobbies:
Whether it's gardening, painting, knitting, or playing a musical instrument, these activities give you an opportunity to focus your attention on something enjoyable and fulfilling. Make it something you’re good at (or really don’t mind being bad at). Hobbies should bring you joy, a break from the demands of daily life, and a sense of accomplishment.
Zen-tivities:
Zen activities such as yoga, tai chi, or walking in nature let us reconnect with our bodies and the present. These zen-tivities encourage gentle movements, deep breathing, and a focus on the sensations within our bodies. A little focused movement and breathing can help you release tension and create a harmonious connection between mind and body.
Takeaways
By incorporating 'mind time' into our lives, we can create a sanctuary of peace and rejuvenation amidst the fast-paced world we live in.
These practices let us give our brains the much-needed breaks they deserve, fostering inner peace, clarity, and a deeper connection with ourselves.