Today is No Brainer Day, a beautiful day to remind you that most issues that we face in our life have easy and obvious solutions. It was first celebrated in 1995 and since then more and more people across the world dedicate this day by giving their brains a break. And it is not as easy as it sounds, since our brains just love overcomplicating, overanalysing and generally being worried about things that have already happened or could potentially happen.
Nevertheless, we encourage you to give your brain a break. Celebrate today by unwinding your mind and letting go of any worries and tension, stay away from overthinking and analysing things. Give your mind a break, relax, enjoy the day, and be content. Here are a few things that could help.
1. Breathe
Use the power of breathing and try Power Breathing by exhaling for twice as long as you inhale. Activate the parasympathetic nervous system, which slows down the fight-or-flight reaction and helps the body and mind to return to a relaxed state. Because your brain no longer thinks you need to run or fight, blood flows back to your inner organs from your hands and feet and your body and mind feel better. Simply sit comfortably, close your eyes, and begin by inhaling for a count of four, pause for six and exhale for a count of eight. Practice for 3-5 minutes.
2. Meditate
There’s no need to set a specific meditation goal. Your aim is to sit with yourself and be present in the moment. Close your eyes and take several deep breaths, allowing yourself to inhale, hold, and then slowly exhale. Turn your attention to any tense spots in your body and bring them to relaxation with each and every breath. Spend 5-7 minutes bringing your awareness to the “here and now” and once you feel relaxed, slowly open your eyes.
3. Stretch or go for a walk
Any physical activity is better than none. Take a few minutes to stretch or take a walk outside. Being in nature or exercising takes the pressure and tension from the mind and helps it to switch from the chatter and noise to physical sensations of stretching or walking. Be present, observant and aware of your senses.
4. Draw or colour
This is a simple way to relax and get in the flow. There are so many amazing colouring books available to choose from, but if you don’t feel like filling in pre-drawn designs, you can always doodle away with your own creations.
5. Free write
Some people also call it “dump writing”. Just do it. Take a notebook, take a pencil or pen, sit down and start writing about anything that comes to your mind. Even if it feels like nothing at first, write exactly that. You will see that once you start thoughts will flow in. Use this time to write out your worries, frustrations or anything else preoccupying your mind. The only rule is to not stop writing until at least 2 pages are filled in. Otherwise, write away.
6. Laugh
Laughing heals. It is a scientifically proven fact. It also relaxes your mind. Remember, when was the last time you genuinely laughed? Well, today it’s time to do it. Watch a comedy, call your sister who makes you giggle, read a book, join in with silly games or puzzles.
At the end of the day, today is a No Brainer Day, so don’t overthink ways to celebrate; just relax and appreciate the simplicity of a good life.
If you would like to speak with a counsellor about how we can support you, please contact us.
Anoush Davies
Find out more about Anoush here
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: Executive Coach & Leadership Consultant