![]() This might sound old-fashioned, but there is solid science behind the claim that getting into the habit of expressing gratitude will not only make you feel better but can actually rewire your brain. It calms down the frontal part of your brain which usually helps you to analyse and question your own behaviour so you become less judgmental of your actions. When you’re focusing on the task at hand, you can get into a state described as “flow”, where you are completely submerged in the moment. It may seem counter-intuitive to add more to your to-do list when you’re stressed, but there is evidence that learning something new can be one of the most effective ways of reducing stress and calming down your body. > Why singing is good for your body and mind Learn a new skill Try just thinking about three things that you are grateful for in a day. > Could getting some houseplants improve your health? Meanwhile, another study found that when employees were able to view plants from their desk, they performed better in a specific test of concentration by 19%. In one study where plants were taken away from an office, employees reported more stress, reduced efficiency and reduced attention. Anecdotal evidence suggests that plants can help people breathe in more deeply and therefore feel more comfortable and calm. Houseplants don’t just help to make a room look nice, especially one without a view, they improve air quality and can improve wellbeing, memory and productivity. > Why you should take more breaks Get Some Houseplants “Mind wandering plays an important function in our mental and physical lives: it’s a power tool for creative thinking, for improving mood, for decision making for mental resilience.” “When you take a break, you don't want to load your mind with something else,” neuroscientist Professor Moshe Bar says. ![]() Letting your mind wander is a crucial part of any downtime too. Meditation and taking a nap are tried and tested ways of de-stressing but even just regular short breaks of a few minutes at a time can have positive effects such as lowering your heart rate and making you feel calmer. > Enhance your brain power by putting your phone down Take a Break One study found that when employees were able to view plants from their desk, they performed better in a specific test of concentration by 19%. Social psychologist Professor James Pennebaker, who has carried out a number of studies in this area, says: “One reason that this can be so powerful is that when you write, you get these upsetting experiences out of your mind and you're able to connect with other people better.” Just setting aside 15 minutes for what’s called “expressive writing” can reduce negative thoughts and reduce stress, improve your mood, your sleep, your immune system and even your memory – and you could start to feel the benefits within just a week. If you have a lot on your mind, you might be surprised to learn that writing it down could actually help you move past it. ![]() ![]() > Can reaching out to a friend or neighbour make you healthier? Write It Out So maybe it’s time to message that friend who you haven’t seen for years? For those for whom mobility is an issue, social media is a valid way to make a connection. Social interactions that constitute a meaningful connection can vary from chatting to a barista in a café through to helping a neighbour or socialising with friends and family. As well as reducing feelings of loneliness, one study suggested that “satisfying relationships” count more towards happiness than fame, money, social class and IQ. Have you been a bit of a hermit lately? Reaching out to someone can make a big difference to your wellbeing. > How to reset your brain with your breathing Reach Out But taking a deep breath – for example, by breathing in for the count of four and out for the count of six – helps to re-set your brain and breaks the vicious cycle of panicked thinking, making you feel more in control of your mind and body. When you’re stressed, the levels of a chemical called noradrenaline in your brain get too high, disrupting your focus. ![]() Among other things, it can change your heart rate, lower your blood pressure, reduce your stress levels and combat anxiety. It’s the most natural thing in the world, but breathing does more than supply oxygen to the brain and body. > Why you should be catching some rays Take a Breath One study suggested that “satisfying relationships” count more towards happiness than fame, money, social class and IQ. ![]()
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |