This Downtime refers to taking a break from the daily grind to focus on YOU.
Our society makes it difficult for us to take downtime. We work to make money, to keep our homes clean and in good repair, to care for our family, to take care of others, and so on.
See what's missing there - YOU are.
I was just like you. Before my husband retired, and we moved to our new home. We were in the middle of the rat race. We worked and worked and worked. We felt guilty when we were not working at something...so we worked. Sound familiar?
We are in the middle of a new season, and we are willing ourselves to take Downtime. I can tell you... staring out the window has never felt so good! I am participating in life, not because I have to, but because I want to - wow. But yes, I do feel guilty a lot of the time. Old habits die hard.😞
Also, I don't consider sitting in front of the television, like a zombie, after a busy day as getting in your Downtime. That's called killing time because we are too proud to admit we are ready for sleep at 6pm but draw it out until 10pm (most of the time snoozing in between).
I found an interesting article by Beth Janes, published in Shape Magazine, that says our brain is a "mental muscle" designed to take routine periods of rest. According to Janes, our brain processes by using two modes:
1) Action-oriented mode - used for concentration during work, surfing the web, social media and the processing of data.
2) Default-mode network (DMN) - switches on when our thoughts turn inward, for instance, when we "zone out" while walking in the woods, watching the flames dancing in the fire, or just staring out the window.
The DMN is VERY important because it allows our brains to rejuvenate, reflect, and sort things out. It is a key player in the formation of our memories.
How do we get "in the zone?" Janes and other sources recommend scheduling a specific time to "zone out" each day or by taking opportune moments throughout the day, i.e., waiting for the kids to get to the car after school.
Put your phone away (seems to be a common piece of advice) to disconnect from the world, spend time in green space, meditate, or do whatever you love.
If you love cleaning - washing the dishes can put you "in the zone." If you love exercising - exercise away! If you love crafting - craft away, but reading a difficult pattern or having to pay close attention does not count. You need "mindless" tasks - and looking at your phone (see put your phone away) does not count!
Most importantly, it is okay to take Downtime. Scientific and productivity studies have shown over and over, how important it is that our brains reset and make repairs. "Zoning out" usually helps us to find the answer to that burning question, experience a bright idea, or solve a problem.
Not only do we need to be dedicated to ourselves; we need to be understanding of others who are dedicated to themselves. Just like Planet Fitness, we need to set up a NO JUDGMENT ZONE. If you encounter someone who lays on the guilt - be strong and push it aside.
Now, write down three things YOU can do to get "in the zone". Do one of these for the next 10 minutes. Try taking a walk, stopping by the yarn shop and wandering around (oh, that's mine, sorry), or just stare out the window. Practice daily and it will become a part of your normal routine!
Have a great day - enjoy some Downtime!
Kelli
Additional sources:
Life
Life Hack: Productivity
Entrepreneur
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