Everyone knows the old line, all work and no play makes Jack a dull boy. It doesnt exactly do a whole lot for Jills personality either.

Taking a break from working constantly is essential not only to ones personality, but also to ones health according to a study published by the American Journal of Epidemiology, particularly for those of us who are middle aged. The study, which focuses on those between the ages of 35 and 55, shows that there is a marked lowering of cognitive function in those that work an average of 55 hours per week when compared to those that work an average of 40 hours per week. The study also shows a marked increase in many health issues such as diabetes, cardiovascular problems, impaired sleep patterns, depression and even an elevated risk of later life dementia. It would seem that those who invented the line, all work and no play, hit on a basic human reality, even if they may not have known it at the time.

Taking time out for leisure or hobbies or just stopping once in a while to smell the roses is good for us and for those around us. How we choose to spend our play time is only relevant in that is needs to be a time that is enjoyable and where the brain gets a break from the routine of work.

So how do we change from a lifestyle of all work and no play? For many that might be a harder question to answer than it seems at first. So ask yourself, if money were no object, how would you spend your time?

Many of us would choose to spend our time doing hobbies or leisure activities that interest us. So what sort of hobbies do you enjoy doing? Do you even know? How long has it been since you indulged in a hobby or leisure activity?

Some folks out there enjoy scuba diving and swimming with the sharks. Not something this author is interested in at the moment, but the whole point of indulging in a hobby is that it is something that you enjoy. After all, the definition of indulging is to yield to a desire or whim.

Many will choose less exotic activities to escape the all work and no play lifestyle. Some may choose to read a new book (one of my personal favorites), play a round of golf, or take time for tennis or swimming. Others enjoy rock climbing, hiking or just puttering around in the garden.

There are an endless variety of things to choose from when it comes to filling our leisure time. It can be a bit like being a kid with his nose pressed against the window of a candy store. Now if I had the time, No if I make the time, what would I choose?

What hobbies and leisure activities interest you? Leave a comment and let others know what you do to escape the all work and no play lifestyle.

Warmest regards,

SherryD