Research: 4 Tips for a clearer mind
May is International Mental Health Awareness month, and in honour of this, we’re looking at four ways you can prioritise your well-being.
Feeling mentally foggy or overwhelmed? According to the American Psychological Association, 76% of adults report stress-related health symptoms. Dr. Nikki Scheiner from Ben's Natural Health shares four activities proven to relax the brain and improve mental clarity.
Play Racket Sports for Mental Focus
Engage in racket sports like tennis to create a flow state, reducing mental clutter and improving focus. A study in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health found lower stress levels and better cognitive performance in racket sport players.
Use Strategy Games for Quick Relief
Play games like Sudoku, chess or mobile puzzle apps to redirect anxiety into structured problem-solving. A study in Computers in Human Behaviour found improved working memory by 12-18% in just a few sessions.
Try Archery for Mindfulness
Target sports like archery promote present-moment awareness, shutting down background stress signals and boosting focus. Even beginners can feel the mental shift after a few minutes of practice.
Play Music for Stress Resilience
Playing a musical instrument regulates emotions and lowers stress hormone levels. A review in Neuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews found that regular musical practice boosts brain connectivity by 10-25%.
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Dr. Scheiner advises choosing one activity and practising it for 15 minutes twice a week.
“If you’re feeling foggy or mentally drained, turn to activities that naturally help your brain relax,” says Dr. Nikki Scheiner. “Whether it’s tennis, music, or even a puzzle game, find what helps you feel good and disconnect from stress.”
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