Why Is It Important to Spend Some Time Alone

Some people refer to it as “me time,” some call it “alone time.” Regardless of what you name it, being able to spend time alone even just for a few minutes each day is crucial.

“What’s the big deal about having a time alone?” you may ask. Well, it is a big deal, because carving a time for yourself not only relieves stress, but also allows you to recharge your physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual batteries.

Give me a break!

Even those who consider themselves super moms or super dads need a break every now and then. If you are to effectively take care of your family’s needs, you need to make sure your needs are well taken care of first. However, in order for us to understand the importance of spending time alone, we need to understand first what the dangers of having no timeouts are.

Everybody needs a little time away.” – Chicago, Hard to Say I’m Sorry.

The context of the song might be a little bit different, but the point is, human beings are not designed to be surrounded by people at all times. Even couples need to take a break from each other sometimes. Distance doesn’t just make the heart grow fonder – it also makes the mind stronger and healthier. With the absence of solitude comes stress, and we all know how dangerous stress can be. When left unmanaged, stress can result to a number of cognitive problems, such as poor focusing and poor judgment. Stress can cause you to have a short temper and can cause you to become easily overwhelmed by pressure. Over time, stress can lead to chest pains, rapid heartbeats, digestive problems, and even mental breakdown.

How could a garden be shut up? You could always walk into a garden.” ― Frances Hodgson Burnett, The Secret Garden

What I love most about life is that despite the inevitability of stress, there is always an opportunity for us to break away from the noise. In her book The Secret Garden, France Hodgson Burnett tells of a garden where miracles supposedly can take place. It’s interesting, because during Ancient times, gardens were considered special places where kings and royalty go whenever they need to relax and meditate. You may not own a Zen garden at home, but know that you could always walk into one. It could be in the form of getting a massage, or a pedicure perhaps. It could also be in the form of doing fifteen to thirty minutes of meditation each day. Regardless of how you define “me time,” the key is that you take it as an opportunity to relax, enjoy, and forget the stresses of life even just for a short period.

I find it wholesome to be alone the greater part of the time. To be in company, even with the best, is soon wearisome and dissipating. I love to be alone. I never found the companion that was so companionable as solitude.” ― Henry David Thoreau, Walden

Solitude is your friend. It helps you to relax, it teaches you to be independent, and shows you how to put things into perspective. Moreover, the more time to you can spend on solitude, the more you will be able to appreciate being in the company of others.

Do yourself a favor and start making it a habit of having a “me time” every day. And, allow me to leave you with this quote: