Culturally, I think we tend to get ourselves into an economist’s mindset with work. If we take out two hours a day for ourselves this somehow translates into two hours “lost”; two hours that could have been “productive” had we just been disciplined and focused. But this is a false premise. This construction assumes that any waking mental or physical state is like all the others; that we are some sort of work automaton – put food and sleep in, get disciplined worker out.

True productivity does not come from working harder and longer but through finding a sustainable pattern that allows for both structure and spontaneity. I think you have exactly the right idea by giving yourself “No interruptions-I’m working” time (what I like to call “me” time) AND gym time – work that strengthens you in mind and body.