The Art of Being Lazy
Embracing Rest for Improved Wellbeing.
Now before you roll your eyes and mutter “it would be a miracle if I had the time to be lazy”, then hear me out, because this article is especially for YOU!
In a society that glorifies productivity and busyness, the idea of being lazy often carries a negative connotation. However, taking time to relax and recharge is not only important but essential for our overall health and wellbeing.
The Perils of Perpetual Motion
Constantly being on the go can have detrimental effects on both our mental and physical health. From increased stress levels to heightened risk of burnout, failing to prioritise relaxation can lead to a whole host of issues. Research has shown that chronic stress contributes to a variety of health problems, including heart disease, obesity, and depression. Moreover, neglecting to rest and recharge can hinder our ability to think creatively and solve problems effectively, ultimately stunting personal and professional growth.
The Double Burden: Balancing Work & Home Life
For many of us women, the responsibilities of work don't end when we come home - we're just getting started. It’s fair to say we often take on a disproportionate share of household and caregiving duties, contributing to a significant imbalance in downtime compared to our other halves.
Women frequently shoulder the responsibility of managing the household, including tasks such as cooking, cleaning, food shopping and organising schedules. Data shows that women spend nearly double the amount of time on household activities compared to men, averaging around 2.7 hours per day.¹
The Value of Taking a Break
Contrary to popular belief, being lazy isn't synonymous with being unproductive. In fact, allowing ourselves time to relax is crucial for maintaining optimal performance and wellbeing. Taking a lazy day (or however long you can fit in) isn't an excuse - it's a well-deserved break that allows us to reset and rejuvenate. Just like a muscle needs time to recover after intense exercise, our minds and bodies require periods of rest to function at their best.
Mental & Physical Benefits
Embracing laziness isn't just about lounging around - it's about prioritising self-care and wellbeing. A lazy day (or however long you can fit in) provides an opportunity to disconnect from the demands of everyday life and focus on activities that bring us joy and relaxation. Whether it's reading a book, taking a leisurely walk, or simply enjoying a nap, allowing ourselves to unwind can have numerous mental and physical benefits.
Research has found that taking regular lazy days can lead to improved mental and physical health.² From reduced stress levels to enhanced creativity and productivity, incorporating periods of rest into our routine can have far-reaching benefits. Moreover, studies have shown that relaxation techniques such as meditation and deep breathing can help lower blood pressure, improve sleep quality, and boost immune function.
In a world that never seems to slow down, the importance of being lazy cannot be overstated. Taking time to relax isn't a luxury - it's a necessity for maintaining our mental and physical wellbeing. By embracing laziness and prioritising self-care, we can cultivate a healthier, happier, and more balanced life. So go ahead, give yourself permission to be lazy - you deserve it!
References
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics 2022 https://www.bls.gov/news.release/atus.nr0.htm#:~:text=%2D%2DOn%20the%20days%20they,with%2047%20percent%20of%20women Accessed May 2024
Yale, The Importance of Relaxing 2016 https://beingwell.yale.edu/sites/default/files/files/2016%20July%20Momentum%20Yale.pdf Accessed May 2024
