Fitting in time for our physical fitness is important, but sometimes we can forget one of the biggest and most important muscles in our body: the mind. This month, in honour of UBC Thrive, we offer tips and suggestions for keeping your brain fit, as well as your body.
Week 1: Listen away your stress
Sound therapists and researchers have created a custom eight-minute piece of music specifically designed to reduce stress and anxiety by lowering heart rate, blood pressure and the stress hormone known as cortisol. Listen here:
Week 2: Find your favourite thriving place
Visit one of the many thriving spaces and places on UBC’s Vancouver campus. Examples include Fairview Square, Wreck Beach and the Museum of Anthropology. You can also check out these additional hidden gems you may not have heard about.
Week 3: Increase neural pathways
Activities that engage both hemispheres of the brain help promote new and existing neural pathways. Follow along and try this Ear and Nose Brain Break or watch it below:
Week 4: Digital detox
Whether it’s for five minutes at the dinner table or a whole day, taking time away from electronic devices is key to keeping our brains happy. Try the Greatist.com’s 7-Day Digital Detox for Real People or discover their free tools to save your eyes from digital eye strain.
Interested in learning more? Read Scientific American’s “Why Your Brain Needs More Downtime
Photo credit: Tirthankar Gupta (Flickr)