Truemed Weekly Issue No. 21 |
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Boredom Is Good For Your Brain |
Your muscles grow when you challenge them. Your heart gets stronger when you push it. But your brain? It actually thrives when you let it wander.
We live in a culture that treats boredom like a problem to fix. Every quiet second is filled: a podcast in the shower, Slack pings between meetings, TikTok while you wait for the Uber. The result? A brain that’s constantly processing, but rarely resting.
Here’s the paradox: what feels like downtime is actually when your brain does its most important work.
When external stimulation fades, your default mode network (DMN), the system that connects memory, imagination, and emotional insight, switches on. This is where creativity sparks, problems untangle, and self-awareness deepens. Studies show that allowing the mind to wander strengthens neural pathways tied to innovation and long-term planning. |
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We've Been Trained to Fear Downtime |
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Empty space feels unproductive, so we fill it with noise.
But when we’re constantly overstimulated, through notifications, endless scroll, or even “productive” multitasking, the brain’s attentional systems go into overdrive. Cortisol rises. Working memory capacity drops. Focus splinters. Over time, this state of chronic input leads to mental fatigue and a kind of cognitive malnutrition where we’re always consuming but rarely digesting.
We’ve mistaken distraction for engagement.
Apps, “brain boosters,” even gamified puzzles promise mental stimulation. But most are shallow inputs that don’t activate the deep neural work the DMN thrives on. Real growth requires reflection, not just reaction.
→ Real mental strength comes from what happens in the quiet. Let your brain wander. It’s trying to build something. |
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How to Practice Intentional Boredom |
Make space for stillness. Go for a walk without your phone. Journal without a prompt. Meditate or simply sit with your thoughts. Be intentional when performing mundane tasks; cleaning your house or taking a shower doesn't require a soundtrack to be enjoyable.
Those quiet, uncomfortable moments are where clarity emerges. Take advantage of them. |
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Each week, we break down a trend in the health space to uncover what’s delivering real results and what’s overdue for some scrutiny. No fluff. Just facts. |
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Here’s the truth about boredom: |
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Trend |
Every free moment should be filled.
Downtime is wasted time, and the best way to keep your brain sharp is with endless stimulation, multitasking, and constantly filling your time. |
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True |
Boredom is brain medicine.
Unstructured time activates neural networks tied to creativity, resilience, and problem-solving.
Your brain isn’t idle when you’re bored; it’s building the connections that keep you sharp long-term. |
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"I am feeling stronger, and healthier. I am able to go throughout my day feeling mentally stronger, which helps with my stressful line of work." |
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"Exercising 5 Days a week is for me! I am feeling stronger, and healthier. I am able to go throughout my day feeling mentally stronger, which helps with my stressful line of work. I get over being sick sooner, I have energy and focus to be there for my kids, all from taking 30 minutes a day to myself. My husband and kids are joining me as well. Having access to equipment at home makes it easy for us all to workout whenever we have time around our busy schedules."
Thanks to Truemed, this busy mom was able to build her dream fitness routine at home—finding strength, balance, and quality family time between a demanding career and full home life. |
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Partner News You Should Know |
We’re proud to be the platform where these breakthroughs meet access. |
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ClassPass Enters the Hospitality Scene |
ClassPass announced its first-ever hotel partnership with The Manner Soho in New York City, giving guests complimentary access to a curated selection of NYC’s top health experiences—including boutique fitness classes, recovery studios, and self-care services.
The collaboration marks ClassPass’s entry into the hospitality space, blending travel and health in one seamless experience. |
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Learn More →
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SoulCycle Taps Superpower for Health Diagnostics |
Truemed partners SoulCycle and Superpower have joined forces to bring personalized health insights to riders. The collaboration integrates Superpower’s biometric testing and performance data into the SoulCycle experience, helping members better understand recovery, nutrition, and overall well-being.
The partnership marks a shift toward more holistic, data-driven wellness offerings across both brands. |
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Learn More →
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BLOG OF THE WEEK |
Where Can I Use My HSA Card? A Practical Guide |
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We Want to Hear From You |
At Truemed, we’re inspired by our customers investing in their health. Whether you’ve used Truemed directly or accessed health through one of our partner brands, your journey matters and we’d love to hear more! |
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Invest in your health. |
© 2025 Truemed Inc. | Privacy | Unsubscribe |
The content of Truemed emails are intended for informational and educational purposes only, and should not be considered medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical care, diagnosis, or treatment. Truemed is committed to expanding access to medically necessary products and services through HSA and FSA plans, though individual needs and eligibility for benefits may vary.
We curate featured partners that share our commitment to true medicine. When you buy through Truemed links, we may earn a commission.
*On average, 30% of gross income is paid to state and federal tax. Individual tax rates vary. To see your estimated savings, check out the TrueSavings Estimator. |
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