It is important to train your brain to relax, especially in a world where we are constantly engaged. From checking notifications right after waking up to falling asleep after binge-watching shows on Netflix, we have become accustomed to never really shutting down our brains. 

Here are some advantages of training your brain into taking a break:

• Strengthens memory 
• Improves attention span
• Greater creativity and insight 
• Processing thoughts and emotions easier
• Helps avoid mental fatigue and burnouts 

We have outlined some ways to relax your mind below because some downtime can really help your brain and ensure that it is able to perform important functions when required to do so.

Go for a Walk

The best way to train your brain to take a break is to connect with the body. Physical exercise has immense benefits, but you don’t really need intense workouts to achieve mental breaks. Going for a walk is an effective and easy way to create some quiet in your noggin. We recommend avoiding podcasts when taking your walking break since that can requires a level of concentration, but some light music can be great. 

A Hot Shower/Bath 

You know how people claim to have their best ideas in the shower? Well, there is a reason for that! Giving your brain a break will jumpstart it and offer you a moment of clarity. A hot shower or relaxing bath can train your brain to relax once in a while and just concentrate on the present moment. By forcing yourself to disconnect from the screens and work and letting the hot water stream down, will help you unwind and  declutter the mind, making room for new ideas.

Practice Mindfulness

Practicing mindfulness doesn’t mean you need to completely cut off everything and go live in the mountains for a week (you definitely can, though, if you think it’s something you need!). Mindfulness can also mean just taking a moment to tap into your senses, feelings, thoughts, and emotions. Using methods like yoga, deep breathing, and guided meditation can also be a helpful way to relax and quiet your mind. The awareness of the current moment, and nothing else, can help you recover and teach your brain to focus on one thing which can translate to other tasks that require the same level of attention.

Journaling (With Pen and Paper)

Journaling may not sound like a way to give your brain a break, but it can definitely help. The way journaling works is that it allows your brain to switch from an activated mode into a resting phase. When you are journaling by hand, it allows you to just mentally slow down, take your time to process things, and focus on the now. It is a great way to train your brain into deactivating and relaxing. 

We have all become really attached to our beloved forms of technology. Staring at a screen all day and being constantly engaged can be exhausting for the brain too. It is important to incorporate ways to relax your mind into your daily lives so that you can train your brain to deactivate once in a while.