Our minds are powerful tools. In fact, we all can agree that they are critical for us to have a quality life. As such, we definitely need to take care of them. Neglect can never be an option. But how can one take care of his/her mind? Unlike the skin, the mind is not tangible. Gauze and tape are ineffective tools when the mind becomes weary. What works?
In recent times, I have rediscovered some important tools to help me overcome mental fatigue. Here are three of my practices:
Rest
When we are physically exhausted we opt to take a break or even a good night’s sleep. What if I told you that a tired mind benefits from sleep too? According to the Johns Hopkins Medicine article entitled ‘The Science of Sleep: Understanding What Happens When You Sleep’, “a healthy amount of sleep is vital for “brain plasticity” or the brain’s ability to adapt to input.” In essence, little sleep makes us struggle to process anything we have learnt throughout the day. Insufficient sleep also affects our memory. This is one of the reasons scientists recommend getting at least 8 hours sleep. Our mind would take a break from the occurrences of the world and repair itself. Sleep would give us mental clarity, making us more focused and sharp to handle challenges on a given day. We should not underestimate power naps as well. There is no shame in it. If we feel unwell mentally, take a nap. It works!
Unplug
I believe we are overstimulated by all that’s happening around us. Our phones don’t make it easier either. We are glued to our devices. It is likely that we respond to every notification that pops up on our phones. We often fear missing out. Young professionals have many demands to meet as well. While there are benefits to having our phones, the way we use them can negatively affect our minds. Potsdam State University of New York in their article entitled “What Does Screen Time Do To My Brain?” says that “screen time induces stress”. They also say that it “overloads the sensory system, fractures attention, and depletes mental reserves”. Being a lover of technology, I experienced this overstimulation. Working for hours on the computer has never been healthy for me. Hence, the need to unplug. To reduce my stress levels, I would put my phone and laptop down for a while. This could range from a few hours to a few days. I use the opportunity to step outside, walk, and appreciate nature a little more. I found some semblance of balance and peace that way.
Talk
I understand that being vulnerable is not easy. However, I have found that “talking it out” has improved my mental health. Think of a balloon perpetually being filled with water. That balloon will expand to hold a greater volume of water. At some point, that balloon will burst because of the increased pressure inside it. It is similar to humans. A gradual and continuous inflow of stress and negativity can cause “pressure buss pipe”. This is why we need a communication outlet. Holding it all in does not help us. Talking it out can give a well-needed release to the weary. It is important to note that we should not talk to anybody willy-nilly. If we are honest, some people do not facilitate fostering a better mind. They may have poor attitudes and give horrible advice. Therefore, speak to trusted friends. Get support from wise family members. Professional help is also available. Get therapy. Also, add prayer in the mix. Communicating with God does bring ease and peace of mind.
Let me be categorically clear. I struggle from time to time to do these. I don’t have a consistent rhythm. Ironically, I do get stuck in my head when I get stressed. However, these methods have proven effective for me. I just need to keep practicing them and make them a habit. The good thing about taking care of the mind is that more methods can be employed. There is exercise, practicing mindfulness, journaling and so much more. No matter what we do, we just need to give ourselves a fighting chance in a stressful world. The journey to a sound mind may seem challenging, but it is worth it. Let’s find what works for us and do it consistently. In this way, we will be more resilient against the pressures of life.
References
Johns Hopkins Medicine. (n.d.). The Science of Sleep: Understanding What Happens When You Sleep. Retrieved from https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/the-science-of-sleep-understanding-what-happens-when-you-sleep
Potsdam State University of New York. (n.d.). What Does Screen Time Do To My Brain? Retrieved from https://www.potsdam.edu/studentlife/wellness/counseling-center/what-does-screen-time-do-my-brain
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