Stillness allows the mind to wander freely, aimlessly, to truly benefit from “inner intelligence.”
More scientific studies they affirm what we often refuse to accept: that immobility not only is it not a waste of time, but it can be a source of calmness, inspiration and creativity.
However, most of us underestimate how liberating it is to let time flow without doing anything. Instead of immersing ourselves in our thoughts, we feel the need to invent something to fill the void, even if it brings temporary boredom.
In one Education at Harvard University participants preferred to receive a mild electric shock rather than being left alone with their thoughts for only 6-15 minutes. It’s an impressive finding that underscores how uncomfortable we are with silence and inaction.
OR Gabriel Treenor The author of The 1% Wellness Experiment explains that many people don’t even think about being inactive. “Today there is always something that can disturb us. We are constantly connected to the outside world,” he notes.
Social media, constant notifications, the need to fill every minute with something “productive” creates a reality that leaves no room for interruptions.
“We’re always trying to fit everything into our already busy days,” she adds.
The sin that accompanies inaction
This struggle to be consistently productive is often associated with feelings of guilt. Looking busy has become a sign of prestige, even moral superiority.
At the same time, there is pressure to live up to a set of social roles. To be good parents, children, friends, employees. This built-in expectation makes it difficult to accept sitting for a while…doing nothing.
But what happens to our brain in moments of inactivity and boredom?
According to experts, in the absence of external stimuli, the brain turns inward, looking for mental stimulation.
This kind of “mind wandering” and dreaming is directly related to creativity. At these moments, the so-called default mode network of the brain is activated. It’s a state of semi-consciousness that allows the mind to make unexpected connections and generate ideas that wouldn’t jump out in more organized, logical moments.
How to incorporate inactivity into our lives
An important point to emphasize is that inactivity is not just passively “doing nothing” like watching TV or scrolling through social media, it actually activates the brain and keeps it in a constant state of stimulation.
Instead, to truly benefit from this “inner intelligence,” we must allow the mind to wander freely, aimlessly.
Here are some ways to incorporate quieter moments into our daily lives:
- Redefine the meaning of “nothing”: What is perceived as “unproductive” to others can still be deeply meaningful and fulfilling to each individual.
- Take advantage of the waiting period: Instead of checking your phone every time you wait in line, take a few minutes to breathe and relax.
- Plan your free time: Prioritize rest like any commitment.
- Embrace the shame: Inactivity may seem uncomfortable at first, but once you get used to it, you’ll see how refreshing it can be.