How to get rid of a fried brain - brain fog remedies

“You need to insert X… Are you listening?

My colleague keeps droning on. I stare into space.

My eyes are seeing, but not seeing. I try to focus, but my brain feels like cotton candy. Full yet empty.

What is she trying to tell me? Focus.

“And if you… ” I lose the sentence again. I feel stupid. What is she trying to tell me?

The inability to focus and troubles with paying attention are called brain fog, or clouding of consciousness and sometimes it’s caused by brain overload. Or as we call it a fried brain. When I started a new job I got a serious case of brain fog, because of all the new information, the stressful situation, a lack of sleep etc.. So here is what helped me overcome it:

This blogpost is about stress-related, sleep-deprived and overloaded brain fog. Please be aware that we have no medical background. These are tips from our personal experience. If you can’t get rid of your brain fog you might want to see a doctor.

So what is brain fog or as it is also often called the clouding of consciousness?

Suzie C. Tindall, of NCBI (National Center of Biotechnology Information) explains the term like this : “Clouding of consciousness is a very mild form of altered mental status in which the patient has inattention and reduced wakefulness.”

In simple: You can’t concentrate, focus, or pay attention like you’d normally would.

Brain Fog Symptoms:

Low Energy
Feeling of Guilt
Feeling Empty
Feeling Confused
Low Focus
Low Concentration
Fatigue and Tiredness
Aching Body
Troubles Remembering

Headache or Tension
Forgetfulness
Demotivation
Insomnia
Mood Swings
No Ideas

Brain Fog Causes:

Stress
Lack of Sleep
Diet
Too much Screen Time
Hormones
Medical Conditions
Depression
Viral Infections

Have you ever had brain fog? If yes, can you relate to the following story?

Anna is a 28 year old full time blogger, who shares an apartment with her brother.

Like every morning Anna’s alarm goes off at 5:00 a.m. but this time she struggles with waking up. Her whole body feels tired and her eyelids are so heavy – so, she falls back asleep. At 8 a.m. she finally crawls out of bed. Despite washing her face with cold water, Anna still feels too tired. So she skips her morning workout and instead just moves to her desk and starts working.

At 10 a.m. her brother finally strolls out of his room, he says: “You are working so hard”. “Not really, I am super tired”, Anna answers. After emptying another a cup of coffee Anna continues.

Anna stares at her desktop looking distant. She must have read the same sentence 10x by now. Instead of being productive she struggles with simple questions. She starts massaging her head. “You have a headache?” her brother asks. She looks confused: “Yes, my head feels really fluffy. Somehow I cannot think straight and my concentration is non-existent “.

Also Read: Create your Productivity System to Get Stuff Done Stressfree.

Short-term remedies against Brain Fog & Fried Brain I use:

1. Naps:

A short nap during the day is for babies only? Not at all!. Napping has many benefits for adults as well. SleepFoundation.org mentioned that a “40-minute nap improve[d]s performance by 34% and alertness 100%”

2. A Short Walk:

Taking a walk can help you release stress. According to studies, a short walk can decrease your blood pressure and heart rate. Often we get a fried brain when we are overwhelmed and overworked. Take a short walk in nature to relief your stress.

3. Meditation:

Especially if you always have something on your mind and you constantly are worried to forget an important task or meeting: Meditate. Meditating will give your brain a break, reduces stress, helps with anxiety and improves your concentration level. And if you always have a hectic day: try to implement 5 minute meditations into your work routine!

Also Read: Stop The Worst Brain Drainer Overthinking

4. Small Breaks:

I always get brain fog when I work too hard and too long without giving my brain a break. So, if I finished a difficult task and my brain is fried the next morning I like to do fun activities: Watch a movie, read a book, draw and listen to music. If I can’t concentrate on the book either I usually go tidy up as a clear space is a clear mind. While working, switch between brain intensive and simple tasks.

5. Brain Dump

Sometimes we have so many worries and problems our brain is feeling overwhelmed. Take a piece of paper and write everything down that is on your mind. Once you’ve written everything down you’ll feel a, a lot better and b, you might find a solution to your worries. You might also figure out that a lot of your problems are just in your head.

6. Cuddles Against Fried Brain

When we cuddle with someone else, our bodies release oxytocin, a hormone that reduces anxiety and makes us feel relaxed. Grab your loved one, dog, cat, or teddy bear and release some stress to clear your fried brain.

6. Break your Tasks into Tiny Steps

Write out each step of the task.

– List any materials that you need.

– Make a list of things that you want to do.

– Create a schedule for yourself.

– Set aside enough time to complete the task.

Also Read: Focus Tips when you are Overwhelmed

Long-term Brain Fog & Fried Brain Remedies I use:

1. Healthy diet as A Fried Brain Remedy:

A healthy breakfast here and a healthy lunch go a long way. A healthy diet will increase your concentration and your focus. You will be less tired as nutrient-rich foods help to beat fatigue and If you have a lot of brainwork to do: try out one of these brain booster foods: Blueberries, dark chocolate, nuts, boiled eggs, kale chips. They are perfect to snack on while working, are healthy and improve your brain performance. Here is a list of supplements that help with brain fog.

2. Regular exercise:

The University of Hampshire posted an article on the 24th January 2018 where they discussed the effect of exercise on one’s performance. It states that exercise increases endorphin levels and improves your sleep and focus. The Harvard Business Review also linked a sharper memory, faster learning, an increased concentration and a lower stress level to exercise. So ladies! Take your yoga mat or dumbbells and let’s kick this brain fog’s butt!

3. Self-care:

Self-care is important. Have you ever worked day and night and felt super stressed out but there was still no end in sight? Yes, I think we all have been through something familiar (don’t ask me how often I worked on essays last minute and then stayed awake for several days just to hit the deadline). But self-care is not only important for your body but also for your brain! Taking a hot bath will help you relax your body and soul.

Also Read: Learn how to stop Overcommitting to live peacefully.

4. Enough Sleep:

Sleep is a natural human need, and we have been doing it since our ancestors were cavemen. Sleep helps us recover from the day, and gives us time to recharge before we go back out again. However, many people don’t get enough sleep, and if they do, it isn’t always quality sleep. Here are some reasons why you should make sure you get at least seven hours of restful sleep each night.

1. You’ll feel better

When you’re tired, your body doesn’t function well. Your brain won’t work properly, your immune system won’t work efficiently, and your muscles won’t perform optimally. When you’re not rested, you’re more likely to experience headaches, fatigue, and mood swings.

2. You’ll look better

A good night’s sleep makes you feel refreshed and energized, and it shows. If you want to look great, you need to make sure you’re getting enough sleep. A lack of sleep can cause dark circles under your eyes, bags under your eyes, and wrinkles around your mouth.

3. You’ll think more clearly

If you’re feeling tired, you may find yourself thinking about things that aren’t really important. But when you’re well-rested, you’re able to focus on what matters.

4. You’ll live longer

According to research published in the journal Circulation, people who got less than five hours of sleep per night had a higher risk of death over a period of 10 years compared to those who slept for eight hours or more.