Can I Sit With This – Boredom
A simple practice to build nervous system flexibility and reduce the need for constant stimulation.
Why:
Modern life wires our brain to constantly chase stimulation (hello, doomscrolling).
But boredom is not the enemy — it’s a doorway to calm, clarity, and resilience. This activity gently strengthens your ability to tolerate low-stimulation moments without escaping them.
What to Do:
- Pick a small, non-stimulating moment — like waiting, commuting, or in-between tasks.
- Set a 2–5 min timer (whatever feels doable).
- Just sit with it. No phone, no distractions. You don’t have to do anything.
- Ask yourself gently:
- Can I sit with this feeling without fixing it?
- What does my body feel like right now?
- What am I tempted to do to escape this.
5. After the timer ends, jot down:
- How hard was it? (Rate: 1 = Easy, 10 = Torture)
- What urge was strongest? (e.g., check my phone, move, snack, etc.)
- Did anything shift by the end?
Sample Reflection Table:
Date | Duration | Urge to Escape (1–10) | What I Noticed | Did I Tolerate It? |
Apr 17 | 3 min | 7 | Itchy to check WhatsApp. Body fidgety. | Yes, felt calmer by the end |