The joy and benefit of letting the mind wander

By Linda Cicoira

That part of the workweek can arrive at any time. It is strongest when the voices of your coworkers, supervisors, clients, and adversaries blend with the sounds of fans and air conditioners, causing your mind to wander.

You are winning the lottery, fretting over the apple pie you had at lunch, contemplating the weekend ahead, or remembering the one that just went by. You might be thinking about your children, grandchildren, husband or wife, or wondering whatever happened to the one who got away.

The great thing about daydreaming is that you can do it anywhere, and no one has to know. See that guy over there? Those arm muscles are pretty awesome. Want to watch him wash your car? Yippee! You can imagine it. See the woman at the counter? She has the greatest smile on earth, and you are now sitting across from her in your favorite restaurant. It is that easy.

Daydreaming has been shown to reduce stress and anxiety, and to enhance creativity and problem-solving. And it is free. What else can you get these days for that price? Nothing.

The act helps people process emotions and can relieve boredom. Studies suggest we spend a large share of our waking hours not thinking about what is right in front of us. It is one way we organize memories and rehearse future scenarios. Quiet-waking reflection and daydreaming allow the brain to make connections, which can aid in memory retention.

Letting the mind wander freely can spark fresh ideas. So, if anyone has ever called you a dreamer, know that great things may be in your future. I read that in the crystal ball I ordered after I won $100 million the other day. I was just sitting down for lunch with Madonna and Samuel L. Jackson. We were at my favorite pizza place in Ocean City and rode the bumper cars afterward. Then, the three of us put on our sunglasses and went incognito at Island Creamery, where we ordered double-dip waffle cones. It was fabulous.