🐿️ The Science and Magic of the Pause/Paws

Nature does more than nurture

This morning, as I sat watching a particularly greedy squirrel devour yet again what was meant to be a feast for the birds, I found myself completely lost in thought. My brain paused—staring into the chaos of a squirrel banquet—and for a moment, everything else fell away.

Turns out, that pause is far more important than we often realise. Here’s why: when you stop actively trying to solve problems or power through your to-do list, your brain shifts into what scientists call the Default Mode Network. This is where your mind gets to process information in the background, connecting dots, solving puzzles, and sparking creativity. In fact, studies suggest that taking intentional breaks can improve problem-solving and cognitive function by as much as 40%. It’s like giving your brain a much-needed reset button.

Think about the times you’ve said, “I just need to sleep on it,” or, “Let me take a walk and come back to this.” That’s your intuition knowing what your brain needs: time and space to recalibrate. It’s not avoidance—it’s strategy.

For me, these moments of pause often come when I’m watching nature do its thing—like my cheeky squirrel friend. There’s something grounding about observing the natural world; it slows everything down and gives my mind permission to wander. And more often than not, it’s during those moments that the solutions or ideas I’ve been chasing finally appear.

The truth is, creativity and clarity thrive in those “in-between” moments, not under constant pressure.

Taking a step back lets your mind, body, and intuition work together to bring you the insights you’re searching for.

So, if you find yourself stuck today, don’t be afraid to take a moment. Watch the birds (or the squirrels), make a cup of tea, or just stare into space.

Failing that then maybe these journal prompts might encourage you to find your own benefits and gaps in between.

Here are five journal prompts

1. "What feels unresolved in my mind right now, and how can I give it the space it needs to settle?"Take a moment to explore what’s been swirling in your thoughts and how stepping back might bring some clarity.

2. "When was the last time I truly paused and felt present? What did that moment teach me?"Reflect on a time when slowing down allowed you to notice or learn something you might have missed otherwise.

3. "If I allowed myself a meaningful pause today, what would it look and feel like?"Imagine your ideal moment of stillness—what you’d do, how it would feel, and why it would matter.

4. "What am I trying to push through or force that might actually benefit from a bit of time and space?"Think about where you could ease off and let things unfold naturally instead of trying to control the outcome.

5. "What small joys or insights could I miss today if I don’t take a moment to pause and breathe?"Consider what treasures are hiding in plain sight, waiting for you to slow down and notice them.

   
   

These prompts are designed to help you find those little pockets of stillness where the magic often happens. 🖊✨

I find journaling and nature my home from home but Id love some new and fresh ideas

What’s your go-to way of hitting pause? I’d love to hear your reset rituals. 🐿️✨