Why is Squeezing Toothpaste So Satisfying?

It was during one particularly dreary Tuesday evening, while I pondered the existential dread of another day in the office, that I found myself engaged in a rather peculiar form of meditation.

There I stood, tube of toothpaste in hand, mindlessly squeezing away, lost in the hypnotic swirl of minty freshness oozing onto my brush. This seemingly mundane act, I realised, had become my nightly ritual, a moment of unexpected Zen in the chaos of modern life.

Equally, I found myself quite delighted by the mess my squeezing occasionally made. As I felt the soft toothpaste oozing through my fingers I was transported back to childhood when I manipulated playdough, plasticine and cardboard in a soup of flour and water and wallpaper paste.

This revelation led me down a rabbit hole of curious inquiry: could the simple act of squeezing toothpaste actually be good for our mental health? The answer, as it turns out, is a resounding and somewhat amusing 'yes'. Here are five compelling reasons why.

1. The Joy of Control

In a world where so much feels out of our hands, the humble tube of toothpaste offers a rare moment of control. "It's about taking charge of the small things," says Dr. Susan Whitbourne, a professor of psychological and brain sciences at the University of Massachusetts Amherst. When we squeeze that tube, we're in command - a small but significant victory.

2. A Lesson in Mindfulness

Mindfulness, the practice of being present and fully engaged with whatever we're doing, is often touted as a remedy for the stresses of modern life. Squeezing toothpaste, with its simple, repetitive motion, is a perfect opportunity to practice this. "It's a moment to be fully aware of what you're doing, to notice the sensations, the colours, the smell," explains mindfulness coach Jon Kabat-Zinn.

3. The Satisfaction of a Job Well Done

There's a peculiar satisfaction in seeing a task through to completion, no matter how small. Squeezing out that last bit of toothpaste, ensuring not an ounce is wasted, is oddly gratifying. "It's a mini-accomplishment," laughs psychologist Dr. Laurie Santos, "a daily reminder that we're capable of finishing what we start."

4. A Trigger for Creativity

The swirl of toothpaste, the rhythmic motion of squeezing - these can be surprisingly inspiring. "Creative thinking often starts with everyday observations," notes Sir Ken Robinson, an expert in creativity and education. Engaging in this simple act can spark ideas, serving as a reminder that inspiration often lies in the mundane.

5. A Gateway to Gratitude

Finally, this daily ritual can be a reminder to be thankful. "Gratitude for the small things in life can lead to greater overall happiness," states Dr. Robert Emmons, a leading gratitude researcher. As you squeeze your toothpaste, consider the fact that you have toothpaste to squeeze, a luxury not afforded to everyone.

In conclusion, while it may sound a bit far-fetched, the act of squeezing toothpaste is more than just a step in our hygiene routine. It's a microcosm of mindfulness, control, satisfaction, creativity, and gratitude. The next time you find yourself reaching for that tube, take a moment to appreciate the small joys it brings.

As for me, I've come to cherish these nightly moments of minty meditation. They remind me that in a world of chaos, there's peace to be found in the simplest of actions. So, dear reader, next time you're feeling overwhelmed, why not give it a try? Grab that tube, give it a squeeze, and discover the unexpected Zen in toothpaste.

Sources:

1. Whitbourne, Susan. (2020). "The Psychology of Everyday Actions". Psychology Today.

2. Kabat-Zinn, Jon. (2018). "Wherever You Go, There You Are: Mindfulness Meditation in Everyday Life". Hyperion.

3. Santos, Laurie. (2019). "The Science of Well-Being". Yale University.

4. Robinson, Ken. (2006). "Do Schools Kill Creativity?". TED Talk.

5. Emmons, Robert. (2007). "Thanks!: How the New Science of Gratitude Can Make You Happier". Houghton Mifflin Harcourt.