We talk a lot about living healthy lives by making positive choices when it comes to physical and mental health. However, getting proper rest is important in keeping your body in tip-top shape.

Many of us know the importance of rest days when it comes to our fitness routines, but our brains deserve the same care. Like our bodies, they do not work well when they’re overloaded. Excess information can lead to a bombardment on the insula, which is the part of the brain that regulates attention. The insula activates when switching from one task to another. If someone is working too hard, or frequently switching between tasks, their insula can become overwhelmed. This leads to issues of lack of focus and poor regulation of attention.

Here are some ways you can give your brain a break:

Take a Nap

Take a nap for a quick refresh when you’re feeling overwhelmed. A 7- to 10-minute nap won’t interfere with sleep and can improve your alertness for up to three hours. However, anything longer than a 20-30 minute nap can make you more tired.

Daydream

Research has shown that those who daydream do better on tests and are more creative. Allow yourself to daydream twice a week by taking 20-minute walks and letting your mind wander.

Meditate

Meditation can calm brain signal transmissions, which can relieve feelings of stress, fear, and anxiety. This allows individuals to approach their feelings in a more rational way. Meditation can also strengthen brain connections, which increases empathy and facilitates positive interactions.

Upgrade Your Nutrition and Supplements

Eating quality foods and avoiding those that cause inflammation or harbor toxins can protect you from mental fatigue. Make healthy decisions by sticking to a plant-based diet, limited sugar intake, and eating organic foods.