If anyone has ever told you to “stop daydreaming,” you should probably show them this post. Daydreaming isn’t a sign of laziness or a short attention span. Daydreaming is actually a really great workout for your brain.
When you daydream, rather than focusing on routine everyday tasks, you activate the part of your brain used for complex problem solving, according to a new study. Activating this “executive network” in the brain helps keep your mind fit and healthy. And mental health is every bit as important as physical health (maybe even more).
“This study shows our brains are very active when we daydream — much more active than when we focus on routine tasks,” Kalina Christoff, of the University of British Columbia in Canada said.
But that’s not all. In addition to being a good workout for your brain, daydreaming can further your self-awareness and help you make decisions concerning your life’s path and relationships.
“When you daydream, you may not be achieving your immediate goal — say reading a book or paying attention in class — but your mind may be taking that time to address more important questions in your life, such as advancing your career or personal relationships,” Christoff said.
So go ahead and dream a little daydream. It will keep your brain healthy and active and maybe even enrich your life. Better yet, go for a walk or a run sans iPod and let your mind wander. That way, your body and mind will both benefit.