Benefits of a shorter work week

Is having a day off in the middle of the week beneficial or does it make the week seem longer?  Since the Fourth of July fell on a Wednesday this year, many places of business gave off only the one day.  And doesn't it just figure that the next day back is going to be one of the hottest days of the summer, so far!
A shorter work week or maybe just more flexible hours would help your employees get  more done and could make your business more successful.  Many doctors offices are only open during the week from 9 to 5, leaving their patients to take time off work in order to see a doctor.  It could improve the well-being of people by allowing more time to themselves.  Strengthening relationships with people we value.  A shorter work week would help parents balance their time with their kids - as well as reduce the number of hours their kids are in daycare.  Imagine having some extra time in the evenings to relax and enjoy yourself, instead of having to rush through dinner and prepare for the next work day.  You should be able to enjoy your current day to its fullest!
Employees who work less tend to be more productive than those pushing themselves beyond a 40 hour week.  They would make a stronger work force who gets sick less often.  Having more days off around a holiday would allow more people to participate in local activities that make our communities stronger and friendlier.
Unless you have a job that you absolutely love, you could get away from the "live to work" frame of mind, and be more open to "working to live" state of mind.  We would better appreciate the things we do have.
Many different countries already have these ideas set in place.  What are your thoughts on having more time to do what you want to do?  Just think how unique it would be not to be stressed from the moment you got out of bed...