Down Time

          Life can be hectic! We have work and kids activities and chores and volunteer work and etc etc etc. The list is long for all that needs to get done in a day. We go go go from the time we wake up till the time we go to bed and sometimes we forget to schedule in some downtime. Some of the most successful people in the world understand the importance of downtime and will actually schedule it into their day. Starting your day with some quiet downtime is the perfect way to begin a busy day. Wake up early so you’re not rushed. Sit down with your cup of coffee or orange juice and enjoy the morning. Some will do a meditation or read the paper or a book of some sort. You can do a walk with your dog and get some fresh air. This is all very important. When we wake up and start the day in a rushed state we release stress hormone into our body. This hormone is not good for long term health. It can lead to weight gain, heart disease and chronic infections to name a few. Not only does stress release this hormone but it also decreases the work capacity of our brains. We become less efficient at work and get less done in a day which then just adds to our “to do list” and the cycle is perpetuated. This feeling of always being behind can contribute to a feeling of hopelessness and depression. Research has shown that rates of depression in North America are among the highest of the world. Third world countries have levels of happiness above our own. What this shows is that things will never make you happy. Buying more and making more will never bring you happiness.

          Happiness and health requires balance. Schedule some downtime to help bring balance into your life!