Today we’re going to talk about how to stay focused and keep your brain sharp so that you can tackle all of your Fall projects.
Here are some of the tools you can start using right away:
Train your Brain: It’s really important to train your brain to operate efficiently. Multi-tasking, interruptions, and scattered thoughts are self-perpetuating. Train yourself to be present in the moment. Try the Pomodoro Technique (focused work for 25 minutes, 5 minute break.) Practice meditation—-it improves performance in everything you do.
Gotu Kola infusions: Gotu Kola helps to improve circulation to the brain and it not only enhances memory and mental performance, but it can also reduce anxiety. This is a prized herb of the Ayurvedic tradition, where it is one of two plants known as Brahmi, and is valued for its ability to help enhance meditation practice.
You can drink it as a strong tea or infusion.
I recommend Gotu Kola above the more popular Ginko Biloba. Ginko was not traditionally used for memory and mental function and now the research seems to be very conflicting about its benefits. Gotu Kola has not only a long history of traditional use, but some good evidence from modern research to back up its use.
Bacopa monniera is another brain tonic from the Ayurvedic tradition that is also used for cognitive issues that accompany aging, depression, psychosis, and to enhance meditation. Use it in tincture form, 1-10 ml two or three times per day.
Diet-–avoid saturated and trans fats. We’ve known for a long time that saturated fat and cholesterol muck up your arteries and impede bloodflow to the heart, and even that diets high in cholesterol and saturated fat restrict bloodflow in the rest of the body too, often leading to erectile dysfunction before heart disease shows up. It turns out that these same foods can also reduce blood flow to your brain, and studies are showing that in as few as two weeks’ time participants’ memories can be worsened by diets high in saturated fat. Check out the new book by Dr. Neal Barnard.
Thanks for tuning in to the Back to School Special! Let me know how these tips work for you over the coming weeks and months.
