Are there times when you have trouble remembering someone’s name, even someone you have known for a long time?

Do you go into a room to do something, but once you get there you forget what you wanted in the first place?

Have you had difficulty remembering exactly how old you are?

Forgetting the little things, having temporary memory lapses, feeling confused or out of sorts can be irritating and embarrassing.

Brain Fog May Be the Culprit

When you live with high stress levels day in and day out, it can wreak havoc on your body and mind.  Brain fog is a common result of chronic stress.

Your body increases the production of a hormone called cortisol in order to cope – it maintains homeostasis in your body. It also aids in the short-term memory functions in your brain and contributes to the fight or flight response caused by stress or fear.

But, if your body produces too much on a regular basis, it can cause memory loss, difficulty concentrating, and decreasing your ability to learn new things.

Do Something About It

If you are living with chronic stress, it is time to  take action!

You may be thinking,  “Sure, that would be great, if only I could.”

It may seem like the stress you have is unavoidable and… it may very well be. Stress at work can seem impossible to alleviate. But, you  can learn to manage it. If you don’t, it will continue to take its toll.

An important step is to find ways to relax and enjoy peaceful down times when you are not at work.

Start Moving . . . 

Exercise is a great stress combatant.

It produces endorphins, a feel-good chemical reaction in your brain that leads to a natural high, which relieves stress and produces a sense of well-being.  (BTW – a good belly laugh and chili peppers also stimulate endorphin production.)

Choose your relaxation techniques wisely. They should be good for your mind and body.  Drinks with friends may take the load off briefly, but in the long run, they worsen the effects of your stress.

Consider the following positive, healthy ways to relax:

• Daily meditation
• Treat yourself to a weekly massage
• Walk on the beach/hike in the mountains/drive in the country
• Practice yoga or tai-chi
• Have frequent heart-to-heart talks with a close friend
• Watch a good movie that makes you laugh out loud
• Learn to live in the moment and appreciate all the good in your life
• Develop an attitude of gratitude.

I challenge you to implement at least one new practice each month that will lower your stress levels to ensure long-lasting mental clarity.

I know you can do it!

Related Article:  Man’s Best Friend