How to Beat Brain Stress

Three tips to help you unwind at the end of the day by Henrietta Greene

Move

After a day in the office, focusing on work, perhaps not moving much, and likely not breathing very deeply, gentle movement at the end of the day is incredibly beneficial in both stimulating and relaxing the body. With movement comes a deeper breath, and with a deeper breath comes a better intake of oxygen. Higher levels of oxygen within the body allow our internal organs to function more effectively, and so the body is both at once stimulated into being more efficient, as well as relaxed, the deeper breathing having a soothing effect on our central nervous system.It’s as easy as walking or cycling instead of driving or getting the tube, or perhaps simply getting off a stop or two earlier than you normally would. Alternatively try a yoga session, gentle swim or jog, or for something a little less ordinary, why not give tai chi a go!!It doesn't need to be strenuous activity that leaves you feel depleted of energy - the focus is, instead, on gentle movements to release stress and physical strain built-up during the working day, and to nurture a deeper breath.

Turn off to tune in

The majority of jobs nowadays depend on computers or screens of some kind. The colours and light from these screens are incredibly stimulating for the human brain.When you come home, make it a rule that you do not check work emails or sit at a computer (or similar) after a certain time. This not only reduces the stimuli to the brain, it also will free up time for engaging in other activities, be it cooking, reading, gardening, or, most importantly perhaps, spending time with your family and those whom you live with.

Slow Down

There can often be a pressure to continue 'doing' when we finish work, such as keeping up with personal emails. It can be very easy to roll one day into the next, constantly working or achieving in some way or another.Whilst it is not possible, nor, necessarily, advisable, to relinquish all such responsibilities, try to aim for at least two evenings in the working week set aside for downtime. It may be planning to make a specific meal, watching a film, practicing yoga or simply being at home and enjoying time with those closest to you.When we allow ourselves to slow down, the body and mind are able to recuperate and rebalance. You may find that, on these quieter evenings, the quality of your sleep is improved, or simply that you wake up feeling less drained and with more cognitive energy to participate throughout the day.Wishing you a healthy and happy mindHenrietta