Feature Image by wocintechchat.com
It kind of feels like the whole world is in survival mode right now, and everyone is doing what they can to cope. TikTok and banana bread recipes can only go so far, right?
Good news: distracting yourself from what’s going on is not the only answer! We can actually train our brains to be calm in any circumstance; all we need are some good mental exercises and a tiny bit of motivation to stay consistent.
So, take a break from the face masks and wine and give your brain a good stretch with these exercises.
Move your body
Ever feel a euphoric sense of clarity after a good workout? It’s not your imagination! Physical activity raises the heart rate, pushing blood through the body faster than usual. This means more oxygen is carried to the brain, which results in a clearer and steadier mind. What’s more, some studies have shown that regular aerobic exercise actually increases the size of important parts of your brain, like the hippocampus, which is responsible for the regulation of our emotions, motivation, and memory.
Call a friend
Even when you can’t get the benefits of hugs from friends, your brain still wants to socialize. Social interaction, especially with people you love and trust, provides perspective, empathy, and critical thinking — all important stuff for tired brains. Check out these fun ways you and your loved ones can get together while apart!
Drink water
Yes, we know – it’s not fun. But there is evidence that even minimal dehydration can cause moodiness, and long-term moderate dehydration can negatively affect attention span, motor skills, and memory. If the thought of gulping plain water makes you want to die, try adding a squeeze of lemon or some cucumber and orange slices to dress it up!
Learn a new skill
As we get older, it gets harder to teach our brains new tricks, but when you learn new things — especially skills that require repeated practice to improve — your brain forms new thought pathways. And more pathways make for a clearer head! The benefit of learning new skills is a double whammy: the satisfaction of getting good at something new and giving your thoughts room to breathe.
Listen to music
Dance parties (even solo ones) have been known to calm anxiety, but science says music’s soothing powers take root even when you’re not getting your groove on. Simply taking some time to kick back with your headphones can reduce stress, improve physical health, and even support your immune system.
Draw a picture from memory
Stressed brains love to have something to focus on. Look at a photo for 30 seconds to a minute, then try to draw it from memory. Start with something simple and move on to more complex images for more of a challenge. Add some friends (via Zoom if you’re quarantined alone) and a timer to spice it up with a little competition!
xx, The FabFitFun Team
