Scientific Research Reveals: Dishwashing as Relaxation
Exhausted and stressed at the end of the day? Researchers from the University of Florida suggest a solution: washing dishes. A new study finds it promotes mental calmness.
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(Photo: shutterstock)
Have you always considered dishwashing a pointless burden? Your opinion might change after reading these research findings. A study published in the journal "Mindfulness", presents findings from researchers at the School of Psychology at the University of Florida. The findings reveal that dishwashing can significantly reduce daily stress if you are focused on the activity while doing it.
During the study, researchers instructed 51 students to wash dishes. However, prior to the washing activity, they were divided into two groups: one group read a 230-word descriptive passage about the sensory experience of dishwashing, while the other group read a short technical description of the task. Each student then washed 18 different dishes.
The study's findings showed that students who focused on the activity itself, such as smelling the soap, feeling the water temperature, and touching the food residues, increased their internal calmness by about 25% and decreased their stress and nervousness by around 27%.
(Photo: shutterstock)In contrast, the group that approached the task mechanically, as a chore to get rid of, did not experience any benefit from the activity. Researchers concluded the findings with: "It seems that daily activities approached with intention and awareness can enhance mindfulness."
It appears the calmness the first group members experienced during the activity stemmed from their focus on it, which slows the sensation of time and enhances enjoyment. Similarly, various studies on time perception have proven that mindfulness relates to a cognitive state of tranquility, greatly aided by focusing attention on any activity, such as breathing. In this study, researchers demonstrated that even routine daily activities can achieve this goal. The conclusion: try to enjoy what you are doing, even if it's something you don't particularly like, as you might discover it actually brings you joy. Certainly, you have plenty of opportunities during the day to practice this. Good luck.
