Gen Z’s “Rawdogging Boredom” to Boost Focus – Does It Work?

A strange new phenomenon has appeared onTikTok, where Generation Z takes a break to work on improving their focus.

Called ‘rawdogging boredom’, individuals activate a timer and remain seated without any interruptions.

“Rules: no music, no TV, no drinking, no phone,” a user described in their TikTok video.

This seems quite simple – and may even be a welcome respite for those who seldom have a moment to themselves.

Nevertheless, several participants have faced difficulties, with one describing it as the “most challenging task I’ve undertaken recently.”

So, is this just a passing trend on TikTok, or is there any scientific basis to it?

According to Dr. Sandi Mann, a senior psychology lecturer at the University of Central Lancashire, indulging in boredomindeed offers numerous advantages – such as stimulating imagination and reducing stress.

‘It could appear as a funny and somewhat strange fad. Nevertheless, there are actual mental health advantages to be had from it,’ she previously mentioned to the Daily Mail.

To join the trend, participants first set a timer – with some choosing as long as two hours.

They then remain seated on the floor or on their bed until the time is up, free from interruptions (although their phone continues to record them).

Engaging with the comments on certain videos, numerous users state that they would find the task difficult.

“Oh no, I’d end up stuck with my thoughts for too long and overanalyze everything I’ve ever done,” a user remarked.

Another addition: “I have too many ideas for this.”

And one quipped: “simply overanalyze your entire life and every decision you’ve ever taken, and 15 minutes will seem like 2.”

As stated by Dr. Mann, the writer of The Science of Boredom, there are multiple advantages to this trend.

“When we take a break from our phones or other distractions, we give our minds the space to roam, which can aid in generating fresh ideas and fostering creativity,” shepreviously mentioned to the Daily Mail while talking about rawdogging flights.

The advantages of ‘rawdogging boredom’

Letting the mind roam freely can aid in generating fresh thoughts and innovation.
Offers much–needed rest from the pressures of daily life
Allows you to engage with ideas, feelings, and introspection

Being completely devoid of activities or distractions leads to experiencing minimal levels of stimulation.

The sensation of feeling under-stimulated, or what is commonly referred to as boredom, can be unsettling and something we often seek to escape.

Whenever we compel ourselves to remain in this condition, our thoughts consequently start to turn inward.

Much like meditation or mindfulness, when there is a decrease in external stimuli, or the brain can compensate for the absence, as stated by Dr. Mann.

“The activation of networks and connections, shifting from ideas to images to thoughts, becomes less deliberate. We cease to direct where our mind is headed,” she explained.

This enables us to perceive matters from different perspectives, and to utilize fresh concepts.

In one of her earlier experiments, the psychologist recruited individuals from the street and put them in a room devoid of any sensory input.

At first, the participants felt uneasy, but they quickly became at ease – and a few even discovered it to be soothing.

“Spending time allowing our minds to drift enables us to daydream – both activities serve as the trigger for creativity,” said Dr. Mann.

During this period, we develop more innovative ideas and varied methods for tackling issues. It also offers us essential rest from the pressures of everyday life.

Clinical psychologist Dr. Daniel Glazer, who specializes in trauma, provided his insights onrawdogging as a “type of spontaneous meditation practice”

He had earlier stated to the Daily Mail: “It’s certainly not suitable for everyone, as for some, the concept of being confined within their own mind for extended periods is their greatest fear.”

However, this forced self-reflection might offer a chance to confront thoughts, feelings, and consciousness that our minds usually steer clear of or suppress amid constant diversions.

Although potentially uneasy, stepping away from stimuli could provide specific mental advantages similar to those found in meditation techniques.

The benefits of meditation

Meditation has its origins as far back as 5000 BC.

It is linked to certain philosophies and faiths, yet it is increasingly being embraced as a non-religious, stress-reducing practice.

A new research finding showed that practicing meditation may lower the chances of developing heart disease by reducing associated risk factors.

In particular, it discovered that these methods can reduce an individual’s blood pressure as well as their levels of anxiety and depression.

It may also assist individuals in quitting smoking, which could prevent a potentially deadly heart attack.

Experts are cautioning that adopting a healthier lifestyle, including increased physical activity, remains the most effective method to prevent the illness, while also noting that meditation can further reduce the risk.

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