Why being lazy IS GOOD FOR YOU

Rather than cramming more into your busy schedule this summer, it's time to master the art of doing nothing

Most of us have more on our to-do lists than we can comfortably tick off even the holiday season feels extra hectic with trips to plan and endless social activities to sort. So, what if we did nothing instead? Not only are there proven health benefits to having plenty of downtime, but allowing yourself to be 'lazy' can also help unlock your potential - making you much more productive and creative in the long run. Ready to kick back? Follow these easy steps to do less...

 Ditch a weekly task

If you're always on the go, dropping responsibilities can feel strange - but don't see what you ditch as defeat. 'Quitting won't make you a failure. As you make small changes, you'll feel more in control, energised and inspired,' says motivational expert Sháá Wasmund**.

* TRY THIS Take baby steps and drop just one of your weekly chores. This could be getting someone else to arrange your family get-togethers, asking your partner to cook Friday night dinner, or deciding you no longer need to iron your bed sheets. Feel the weight lift from your shoulders.

Hide your phone

We can't live without our smartphones and tablets, meaning it's rare to be unreachable - the only time when you can truly relax. 'Text, emails and social media notifications fill all our empty minutes,' says psychotherapist and hypnotherapist Julie Hurst. 'But it's never been more important to stop and savour the special little moments that can often escape us.'