This archive report was first published on 17 July 2019.
7 Surprising Habits That Can Be Good for You ¶
Published on July 17, 2019
While some habits are undoubtedly bad for us, others may have unexpected benefits. Here are seven habits that scientific research suggests may not be as bad as you think.
Daydreaming, for example, can occupy up to a third of our waking lives. However, research has found that the 'executive network' in our brain is highly active when we're daydreaming, and that sleepiness you feel when you drift off into a daydream can actually boost your brain power.
Another habit that may be more beneficial than you think is gossiping. Talking about other people can help you bond with whoever you're speaking with, learn more about the individuals and situations around you, and even reduce tension and anxiety.
Drinking coffee, too, has been found to have some surprising benefits. While too much caffeine can be dangerous, moderate coffee consumption has been linked to a reduced risk of depression, Parkinson's disease, and other health problems.
Swearing, surprisingly, can also have some benefits. Research has found that swearing at work can help employees cope with stress and maintain solidarity, and that swearing can provide effective short-term relief from pain.
Being messy, too, can be beneficial for creative thinking. A study found that a messy environment can actually be great for coming up with creative solutions to problems and thinking outside the box.
Viewing cute animal videos, which may seem like a waste of time, can actually help your brain focus and complete tasks accurately. Researchers found that viewing images of cute baby animals triggered care-giving instincts, making people more cautious on subsequent tasks.
Finally, skipping a shower may not be as bad as you think. Daily washing can strip your skin of its natural oils and good bacteria that help prevent disease, but skipping a shower now and then may actually be beneficial for your health and the environment.
So, the next time you catch yourself daydreaming, gossiping, or drinking coffee, don't worry – you may be doing your brain and body a favor.
