Generation Z 'lazing around' habit: A sign of relaxation or a call for psychological help?
Everyone has unique resting and fatiguing rhythms. Some people get exhausted from mental exertion, while others need vigorous physical activity. That's why, if our body signals its need for rest, we should acknowledge it by taking a break from our routine activities.
3:49 AM EST, February 26, 2024
After an intense week, taking a day off to reset might be beneficial. However, problems arise when lazing around in bed becomes our predominant leisure activity.
When this is our primary way to relax, it might indicate the need for consultation with a psychologist. Depression and anxiety disorders can manifest as excessive bed rest, as Dr. Jessica Gold, a psychiatry student at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, explains.
From lounging to sleeping: a long way
Undeniably, the purpose of a bed is for resting, not living. Consequently, the more time we spend in bed doing routine activities such as working, watching movies, or checking phones, the harder we find it to fall asleep.
According to sleep psychologist, Dr. Eleanor McGlinchey, for some people, spending the whole day using a smartphone in bed can exacerbate stress.
Neurologist Dr. Alcibiades J. Rodriguez further advises individuals struggling with insomnia to refrain from acclimatizing their bodies to staying in bed.
Thus, it's imperative to turn the bed into our relaxation zone. Regularly airing our bedrooms, changing the linens, and opting for a traditional alarm clock instead of a smartphone alarm can assist in this. Blackout curtains can also come in handy.
In cases where we need a recovery day, we should strive for engaging alternatives other than simply sleeping.
