In a world wired for constant stimulation, new research shines a spotlight on an unlikely truth: highly intelligent individuals often find relaxation in pastimes that many others find uncomfortable, even intolerable. From embracing solitude to enjoying silence and engaging in complex, seemingly tedious activities, these habits aren’t just quirks—they are tied to real cognitive and emotional benefits, according to recent psychological studies and expert analysis yourtango.com.
The story, which draws together a series of research findings and expert opinions, matters deeply to Thai readers in a society increasingly shaped by rapid development, digital distractions, and a strong collective orientation. As the nation grapples with rising mental health challenges and mounting societal pressures, understanding alternative routes to relaxation—especially those grounded in scientific evidence—can help individuals cultivate resilience backed by both Thai wisdom and Western psychology.
Among the 11 habits that smart people reportedly find relaxing, solitude sits at the top. Studies from the Journal of Personality demonstrate that alone time can fuel self-awareness and positive mood, particularly for those with higher intellectual abilities. Unlike most people who seek distraction through social media or entertainment to ward off loneliness, these individuals gravitate toward reflection—whether through reading, quiet contemplation, or indulging in personal interests. This approach not only recharges the mind but also stabilises emotions.
Silence follows closely. While the hum of urban life or constant connectivity is normal for many Thais, individuals with high cognitive ability often seek out quiet spaces to process thoughts and emotions. The article cites a 2007 study revealing that silent contemplation can enhance creativity and innovation, key traits in academic and professional success. The serenity of Buddhist meditation—a practice long interwoven with Thai culture—parallels these findings, suggesting pathways for integrating tradition with contemporary research.
Books—especially lengthy, demanding ones—are another staple of the brilliant mind’s relaxation toolkit. Scientific American notes that reading complex literature supports empathy, emotional regulation, and deep cognitive function. By contrast, casual readers may balk at the time investment or cognitive strain. For Thai students and professionals increasingly consuming bite-sized content online, this finding is a reminder of the enduring power of sustained engagement and learning.
Puzzles and intricate games also make the list, with a study in the International Journal of Game-Based Learning finding that regular board game players often score higher on IQ tests. These games promote logical reasoning, conflict resolution, and even empathy, providing an ideal blend of relaxation and mental stimulation for intellectually curious individuals. The rising popularity of chess clubs and board game cafés in Bangkok reflects a growing Thai appetite for such mentally engaging leisure.
Instrumental music, particularly classical, is reported to reduce anxiety and foster concentration. This is aligned with global research documented in journals like Psychology of Music, underscoring how musical engagement can enhance focus and mood. Thai audiences, traditionally attuned to the calming benefits of luk thung and mor lam, might find parallels here, suggesting opportunities to blend local and imported musical genres for optimal mental refreshment.
Notably, organizational activities—like planning schedules and de-cluttering—have been shown to clear mental space and reduce stress, according to research in Psychological Science. This insight echoes longstanding Thai cultural practices, such as home cleaning before Songkran, which are believed to sweep away both physical and mental clutter before new beginnings.
Journaling stands out as a beneficial introspective habit. Studies from Michigan State University correlate expressive writing with stress reduction and improved cognitive performance. Here, Thai students—long encouraged to keep academic diaries—might rediscover the practice as a tool for self-reflection and mental wellness, going beyond rote record-keeping to deeper personal insight.
Learning from others and having the humility to ask for help are also habits associated with high intelligence, research in Management Science suggests. In collectivist cultures like Thailand’s, where respect for elders and consultation with peers is valued, these findings reinforce traditional wisdom while modernizing its applications to professional life and mental health support.
Perhaps most counterintuitive is the preference for boredom as a space for growth. Rather than frantically seeking entertainment, research in Behavioral Sciences recommends periodic “detoxes” from screens and devices—offering increases in life satisfaction, productivity, and well-being. For Thai youth immersed in TikTok and online games, the message is clear: some of the brain’s best work happens when it’s at rest.
Finally, engaging in debates—which may seem stressful or combative to many—is actually a source of relaxation and intellectual stimulation for highly intelligent individuals. Studies in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology link early engagement with challenging dialogue to later cognitive achievement. Thailand’s academic debating circuit and Model United Nations clubs, though still niche, reflect this drive among high-achieving youth to seek stimulation beyond the classroom.
Expert opinions affirm these patterns. A certified counselor quoted in the article explains, “Brilliant individuals often gravitate toward activities that provide space for introspection, de-stress them, and help them cope with the added anxiety their intellect brings.” This resonates in Thai academic and professional circles, where top performers often battle high expectations and internal pressure—sometimes at the expense of real mental wellbeing.
But why do average people shy away from these habits? Researchers argue it’s less about intelligence per se and more about differences in emotional regulation, curiosity, and comfort with discomfort. For many, solitude signals isolation, not opportunity; silence feels awkward, not peaceful. Complex challenges or unfamiliar activities, like deep reading or abstract games, may trigger frustration rather than relaxation.
For Thailand, a country in transition between tradition and turbocharged modernity, these insights bear special relevance. The mental health crisis—exacerbated by long hours, constant online connectivity, and mounting exam pressures—has only grown since the COVID-19 pandemic. Ministry of Public Health data show stress and anxiety rates among Thai youth have surged in recent years, prompting public discussions about new strategies for resilience Ministry of Public Health, Thailand.
Culturally, Thailand values social harmony, group activities, and respect for elders—traits that sometimes conflict with the Western ideal of solitary introspection. Yet Buddhist philosophy’s encouragement of mindfulness, meditation, and day-to-day reflection offers a bridge between research-backed solitary practices and local tradition. Incorporating structured solitude, silence, deep study, and creative pursuit isn’t a rejection of Thai values, but a thoughtful adaptation to the new era’s challenges.
Looking ahead, experts forecast a rising global recognition of these alternative relaxation methods, especially as artificial intelligence and digital media further crowd the mental landscape. Educational policymakers and mental health advocates are exploring ways to teach emotional regulation, deep reading, and reflective habit-building to students. In Thailand, schools piloting mindfulness and expressive writing programs report promising improvements in student concentration and wellbeing Bangkok Post.
For Thai readers seeking practical steps, the advice is clear: carve out time each week for silent contemplation or slow hobbies like reading or puzzles, try journaling to process emotions, and experiment with digital detoxes. Parents and educators can encourage children to embrace boredom, not as a void but as a canvas for imagination and reflection. Most importantly, recognize these “odd” habits not as signs of anti-social behavior, but as scientifically validated strategies for thriving in a hyperconnected world.
In sum, what may seem like eccentric or even uncomfortable habits could hold the key to greater mental wellbeing in Thailand’s fast-changing society. By understanding why the smartest people among us seek restoration in solitude, silence, and stimulation, we all gain tools to manage stress, nurture creativity, and find our own routes to relaxation.
Sources:
- YourTango: 11 Things Smart People Find Relaxing
- Journal of Personality (study on solitude and mood)
- Scientific American (reading and emotional intelligence)
- International Journal of Game-Based Learning (board games and IQ)
- Psychological Science (organizing and productivity)
- Behavioral Sciences (social media detox)
- Michigan State University (journaling and executive function)
- Journal of Personality and Social Psychology (debate and cognitive growth)
- Ministry of Public Health, Thailand
- Bangkok Post - Schools embrace mindfulness to reduce stress