The novelty of working from home was short-lived, but it’s now part of the “new normal” and something we’re all used to. However, working from home has its drawbacks, with many people complaining of an inability to shut down and staying up late working on projects.
While this can happen in office settings as well, it’s more common when the lines between work and home are blurred. This all-work, the no-play approach can quickly lead to brain fog. We’ve put together a list of the best ways how to get rid of brain fog, which can affect anyone at any time.
What is Brain Fog?
Despite its alarming sound, brain fog isn’t a medical condition. Instead, it’s a sign that something else is wrong.
The main symptoms of brain fog include:
• Confusion
• Feeling spaced out
• Being easily distracted
• Forgetfulness
• Speaking more slowly or having difficulty finding words
What Causes Brain Fog?
The following are the most common causes of “brain fog,” but there are many others like:
• Stress
• Poor quality sleep
• Hormones – especially during pregnancy
• Poor diet
• Certain medications
• Underlying medical conditions
• Dehydration
Whatever the cause, inflammation in the body is thought to be a factor in causing brain fog because it slows down the conduction between neurons in the brain, affecting one’s ability to concentrate, focus, and maintain energy. Why does this happen, and what can be done to alleviate it?
How to Get Rid of Brain Fog When Working Home
If you’ve been suffering from brain fog as a result of working from home, our suggestions on how to get rid of brain fog may be able to help relieve some of your stress and restore your ability.
Maintain an Exercise Regime
Despite the widespread belief that regular physical activity can cure just about anything, maintaining a regular exercise regimen is critical to your overall health and well-being.
Adults should engage in at least 150 minutes of physical activity per week and do so every day. Get out of the house and get some fresh air to help clear your mind. You can do this by going swimming, taking a walk, or doing some calming yoga.
Prioritize Hydration
When you’re buried under a mountain of Zoom meetings or a never-ending to-do list, it can be difficult to remember to stay hydrated. However, dehydration is a major cause of brain fog.
Your brain is 75 percent water, which means that when your hydration levels drop, so will your concentration! Even a 2% decrease in brain hydration can lead to short-term memory loss and concentration issues in some people.
If you’re looking for a pick-me-up, don’t reach for a second cup of coffee. This will only make you more dehydrated and less alert. As a result, you should drink at least six to eight glasses of water each day to stay adequately dehydrated.
Choose Foods That Fight Brain Fog
Even if you’ve never heard of the term “brain fog,” it’s well known that your diet can have a significant impact on your health. Even if you’re tempted to order another meal to save time at work, eating meals that aren’t as nutritious on a regular basis can exacerbate the condition.
Some of the best foods that fight brain fog include:
- Eggs, cheese, milk, fish, and meat are all good sources of vitamin B12.
- Fish, nuts, and seeds rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon
- Eating a diet high in choline-rich foods like eggs, cauliflower, and peanuts
- Anti-inflammatory curcumin-rich foods and supplements, like raw turmeric shots
Turmeric supplements may be the answer if you already eat a healthy, balanced diet. Curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties, which may help alleviate the symptoms of brain fog.
Take Regular Breaks
It’s possible that your brain fog is a sign that you need a break if you work longer hours, work late, or eat your lunch at your desk all the time. Even if you’re taking regular breaks from your workstation (including your lunch hour!), it’s critical that you get adequate rest as well. Make sure you get at least seven to nine hours of sleep every night.
There will be no checking your email right before bed, no caffeine within six hours of going to sleep, and a minimum of an hour to unwind before you go to sleep. Brain fog can be alleviated by following these simple steps while working from home if you’ve been experiencing it recently.
