You’re trying to concentrate on the task at hand but your mind keeps wandering. Maybe you pick up your phone to scroll through social media or watch videos on YouTube when you should be working on that presentation. Or perhaps you simply can’t focus on what’s in front of you because you keep getting distracted by your own thoughts. Whatever it is, you’re not alone.
Attention spans are shrinking and it’s becoming increasingly difficult for most people to stay in the moment. The constant bombardment of information that we’re presented with day-to-day is one of the reasons. However, aging, medications, underlying conditions, and poor lifestyle are a few other factors affecting your ability to focus.
If you're struggling to stay focused and it’s affecting your performance, here are a few natural ways you can remedy it.
Take Cannabidiol (CBD)
CBD is a compound derived from the cannabis plant, specifically the hemp plant, which is known for its many potential therapeutic benefits, including improved focus and concentration. Regular users claim that smokable CBD flower and CBD supplements can calm the mind, enhance sleep quality, and boost mental clarity. This makes it easier to stay alert, aware, and focused.
Research is still ongoing on the benefits of CBD but it shows incredible promise. If you’re interested in trying it out yourself, head to a cannabis store near you and choose a hybrid variety such as Royal OG or Lifter known for its balanced effects.
Drink Herbal Teas
It’s no secret that certain natural teas can help improve focus and concentration. It’s an effective solution that may come with other health benefits as well. For example, green tea is not only great for improving focus but also a powerhouse of antioxidants that protect your cells. It contains an amino acid called L-theanine which boosts dopamine and serotonin in the brain, resulting in better focus.
Similarly, Ginkgo biloba tea is considered one of the best herbal supplements for improving cognitive function as the antioxidants present in it improve blood flow to the brain and boost focus.
Exercise Regularly
Regular exercise has many benefits for your overall well-being, improved focus being one of them. Having an active lifestyle supports increased blood flow to the brain, boosting the oxygen supply for healthier cognitive function. Exercising doesn’t have to feel like a task. You can do yoga, lift weights, dance, or go on a run. Even a brisk 20-minute walk can have a tremendously positive impact on your focus and health.
Practice Mindfulness
Mindfulness is the art of staying in the present. It’s a powerful meditation technique that can help you redirect your attention toward the task at hand by quieting your mind and reducing distractions. You can practice mindfulness by sitting down in a quiet place, closing your eyes, and focusing on your breath. If your mind wanders, redirect your focus to your breathing. You can practice mindfulness even while eating, bathing, etc., to train your mind to stay focused.
Stay Hydrated and Eat Well
Dehydration and lack of nutrients can impair cognitive function and make it difficult to focus. Drink at least 6 to 8 glasses of water a day to stay hydrated. You can use apps to set reminders and track your water intake. Similarly, ensure you’re consuming a well-balanced diet to keep your brain functioning optimally. Include foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and vitamins and minerals, such as fish, fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds. Avoid sugary snacks and processed foods, including too much caffeine.
Get Adequate Sleep
A good night’s sleep allows your body to rest, repair, and recharge. It’s essential for your brain’s health as well. Lack of adequate sleep can cause fogginess and hamper focus among other health issues. Create a sleep schedule and stick to it. If you have trouble sleeping, make home improvements for good sleep hygiene and establish a relaxing bedtime routine to help your body wind down.
Limit Distractions
It’s impossible not to get distracted and lose focus if your phone is constantly buzzing with notifications. Unless they’re essential, it’s best to turn them off. Minimize distractions by keeping your phone aside while you’re working or putting it on “Do not disturb”. Use productivity techniques like Pomodoro to set time blocks for focused work.
Stay Organized
A messy room and a messy schedule can add to distractions, causing you to lose focus. Ensure your work or study environment is tidy and plan out your day in advance, breaking down tasks according to priority. Finish difficult tasks early on when you’re more alert and focused. This is a good practice for building healthy habits for increased productivity.
Take the First Step, Today
Building your mental focus takes time, dedication, and practice. The first step to doing so is recognizing the root cause and eliminating distractions. Ensure you’re in peak physical and mental health and take supplements such as CBD and teas whenever necessary to support your brain’s ability to focus. Give all these natural strategies a try and see what works for you!
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