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Here are some ways to give your brain a little time off.
Research shows that different brain regions are activated when you’re outside. Getting out in the sunshine also increases your production of Vitamin D and serotonin – plus it just feels good. If you can’t go outside, look out a window.
Exercise is one of the best things you can do for your brain. If you can’t get in a full workout, go for a walk, take the stairs, park farther away from your destination. If you’re at work, take five minutes and stretch, do some yoga postures, jumping jacks or push-ups.
According to neuroscientist Dr. Sarah McKay in “The neurobiology of the afternoon nap,” a brief nap not only reduces sleepiness, but it also improves cognitive function and enhances short-term memory and mood.
Meditation increases activity in the brain’s frontal lobes, the rational brain, and reduces activity in the amygdala, the fear center. Science has determined that meditation stimulates activity in regions of the left prefrontal cortex—an area of the brain associated with positive emotions while decreasing activity in parts of the brain related to negative emotions. I have a daily practice, and it feels an “Aaah” that recharges my brain.
If only for a few minutes several times a day, silence your phone and don’t answer it. Let the computer go to sleep. Turn off the TV or music. Silence is good for your brain.
Let yourself do nothing for a while and just let your mind wander. It may even make you more productive. Research shows that “creative incubation” happens during mind-wandering. You are more likely to problem-solve successfully if you let your mind wander and then come back to the challenge.
As opposed to freely letting your mind wander, visualize images that you find relaxing and happy. The thoughts, words, and pictures that run through your mind have physiological consequences for your body. In your brain, there’s not much difference between actually being at the beach and visualizing it.
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