Understanding Brain Fog: What Can We Do to Alleviate It?

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In the early days of the pandemic, I began to notice brain fog creeping in. Over the past year and a half, it has ebbed and flowed, but it never truly disappears. There has been considerable discussion regarding the origins of brain fog—a term used to describe feelings of low motivation, difficulty concentrating, and an overall sense of blah that many of us have been grappling with. Some attribute it to allostatic load, which refers to the strain on our bodies from ongoing stress. Others point to Cognitive Load Theory, suggesting that our working memory is overwhelmed because we haven’t been able to rely on our long-term memory processes as much. Sometimes, it feels like my mind is working so hard that it could burst into flames!

Then there’s that overwhelming feeling of languishing. I often find myself gazing out the window, lacking the drive to engage in much of anything. My internal dialogue often echoes a sentiment of indifference—”who really cares?”—which embodies the essence of languishing.

While we frequently discuss the brain fog that many of us are experiencing, the pressing question is: what can we do about it? How can we regain our focus and motivation? Besides, of course, hoping for the world to be vaccinated so we can move past this pandemic.

  1. Practice Mindfulness. Engaging in mindfulness practices such as yoga, meditation, and deep breathing can serve as a mental refresher. “Meditation helps individuals with brain fog gain clarity, cultivate self-compassion, and find relief through mindfulness,” says Dr. Sarah Johnson from Community Wellness.
  2. Use the STOP Technique. Dr. Emily Carter recommends a four-step method to combat brain fog:
    • Stop for a moment.
    • Take deep breaths.
    • Observe your feelings and physical sensations, writing down quick notes about your current state without over-analyzing.
    • Proceed with your tasks, equipped with insights from your brief self-check.
  3. Get Moving. Whether you run, walk, swim, or practice yoga, physical exercise can be a remedy for brain fog.
  4. Nourish Your Body. Adopting a Mediterranean diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids may enhance mental clarity. While it’s tempting to indulge in comfort foods during chaotic times, making small dietary changes can help clear the mental haze.
  5. Limit Late-Night Screen Time. I understand the allure of binge-watching shows as a form of relaxation. However, prioritizing sleep is vital in fighting brain fog. Try watching a single episode instead of an entire series in one sitting.
  6. Break Down Your Tasks. I’ve found that dividing my to-do list into smaller, manageable segments—like dedicating 15 minutes to emails or 30 minutes to a specific project—improves my focus. Staring at a daunting eight-hour workday makes me want to zone out instead.
  7. Consult a Professional. In some instances, brain fog may stem from anxiety or depression. If your symptoms persist or worsen, consider discussing them with your doctor. There are treatments available to support your mental well-being.
  8. Be Kind to Yourself. Remember, we’re all navigating our struggles at different intensities. Expecting yourself to operate at peak performance is unrealistic—give yourself grace.

These suggestions may seem like basic self-care practices, yet we often overlook them. It’s crucial to remember the importance of caring for ourselves. So take this as a gentle reminder to prioritize sleep, nourish your body, and be compassionate with yourself.

Now, if you’ll excuse me, I have a window to gaze out while practicing some deep breathing.

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Summary

Brain fog is a common experience during stressful times, particularly during the pandemic. This article explores various strategies to combat brain fog, such as practicing mindfulness, exercising, eating healthily, and breaking tasks into manageable chunks. Additionally, it emphasizes the importance of self-compassion and seeking professional help if symptoms persist.