The Mental Emotional Health Blog

Daydreaming was so fun when I was a child. It was the kind of activity that put me wherever I wanted to go, whenever I wanted to go. As I got older, I was repeatedly encouraged to stop daydreaming (mostly at school). It makes sense to pay attention at school, but that doesn’t mean daydreaming isn’t helpful as you become an adult.

To be honest, adults are frequently or constantly under stress. We have differing levels of demands and responsibilities, and our minds are always trying to keep everything straight. So it isn’t a bad idea to daydream at least a little every day.

Most would say that distractions are bad or unproductive. Sometimes they are, especially for someone dealing with anxiety symptoms who is trying to concentrate. But I have actually encouraged some of my clients to practice daydreaming. Daydreaming provides a brief escape from daily pressures, which we all need.

Let your mind wander once in a while. Mentally picture yourself on a Caribbean beach when the snow is covering the ground outside your window. Let go and allow yourself to relax. It’s free, and it might help you get through the day.