The benefit of fun is way better for you than you might think. In our fast pace lives we can often feel guilty for not making it to the gym, or reading for work or doing that extra thing that we feel we NEED to get done. But I am here to say, that’s okay! I am here to tell you that there are REAL lasting health benefits for fun, and that you need to carve time out of your schedule to laugh with friends and do those things that really fill you up. Today I am sharing five of the best reasons why fun is good for your health! It effects you physically, mentally, and emotionally and is crucial to life! Summer is right around the corner and I am here to inspire you to plan that family vacation!
5 Benefits to Fun
1. Reduces Stress
Cortisol, known as the stress hormone, can rise to unhealthy levels if we are not careful. It has a purpose and is intended to help us in those “fight or flight” moments, however if it stays high it can cause major damage to our bodies and we will completely burn out. Having lower levels of cortisol also boost our immune systems and can help us fight off infections. This makes this the number one benefit to fun in my book!
2. Boosts Energy
Having fun can also boost your energy levels! Whenever we have stress, pain, or we are mentally overwhelmed it can drain us and cause us to feel fatigue physically and mentally. When we take the time throughout the week to do some things for ourselves, to have fun and relax, it can boost your energy levels naturally. Think about the times in your week where you feel most drained, and maybe, if your schedule permits, that is a good time to insert some fun into your schedule.
3. Improved Memory and Cognitive Function
Another great benefit to fun is how it helps your memory! When you reduce cortisol levels and increase the production of serotonin, which is the happy hormone that is released from fun, something happens to your mind. You are able to think more clearly. It also helps improve your memory and overall cognitive function, because it frees up your mental energy and space. So taking time to have fun will actually help you in your jobs! It’s a win win!
4, Better Quality of Sleep
Now this is an amazing benefit to fun that I know everyone needs. We as a nation are sleep deprived. Studies have found that almost 50% of Americans are sleep deprived due to bad habits. The American Psychological Association found that people who have lower cortisol levels are more likely to sleep longer and more soundly than those who don’t. So, adding in the fun during the week, and maybe even every night before bed can greatly increase your sleep quality. Sounds pretty great to me!
5. Improved Ability to Handle Stress
People who take the time for themselves every week to have some fun and relax are actually better at handling stressful situations when they arise. No matter your personality type or enneagram number, stress effects all of us, and everyone needs to take time for themselves. So the final great benefit to fun is the ability to handle stress. Your body won’t stay in fight or flight mode as long as it could, and you will be able to process the moment with much more clarity. Taking care of yourself is vital, we all know we can’t pour from an empty cup. So take some time this week to have some fun! I promise you won’t regret it!