Escapism is sometimes equated with laziness and procrastination. However, particularly during stressful times like these, something called “positive escapism” is a useful form of self-care.
Examples of activities that reflect positive escapism include:
- Getting lost in a good book
- Playing video games
- Doing puzzles and word games
- Relaxing in a warm bath
- Taking nap breaks
- Daydreaming
Engaging in escapism periodically will help unplug the task-oriented mind and plug
in the playful or idle one. Some benefits of positive escapism include:
- Diminished worrying and ruminating
- An improved relaxation response in the body
- Refilling one’s empty energy tanks
- Broadening one’s perspective to include fun, not just work
- Revisiting one’s childlike mindset
For instance, after a tough day, engaging in a favorite escapist activity may be a better choice than reading the news, ruminating over what happened at work, or worrying about tomorrow.
Think of positive escapism as visiting a mental “spa” where one can put one’s cares and woes off to the side and indulge in a bit of fun or unhurried idleness.
