Mental detox: how to release stress and focus your mind

Many people sum up their discomfort in a few words: exhaustion and mental fatigue. They don’t know exactly what is wrong but they feel tense, dull and distracted. They forget more things than they would like to and are irritable and tired all the time.

Sometimes they just want to rest and often the source of exhaustion comes from thoughts in a loop, obsessions, high mental workload and lifestyle.

Is it possible to detox from all that we carry with us every day? Mental detox cures are that reset we need to regain mental acuity, cognitive performance, calm and serenity. More than a therapy, it is a commitment to oneself to live a full life. Let’s see how we can achieve this:

Create a few square metres of peace

It is about having a quiet area free of distractions, either indoors or in a natural environment. The important thing is that it is quiet and safe to enjoy moments of disconnection and peace of mind.

Meditate for a few minutes and practise mindfulness

Meditation is a powerful tool for calming the mind, but it requires consistency and training. Spend a few minutes each day sitting quietly, focusing on your breath and allowing thoughts to flow without judgement. Mindfulness will connect you to the present and reduce stress and anxiety.

Treat yourself to a few hours of digital disconnection

Set clear limits, including physical limits for the use of electronic devices and screens. You can decide, for example, that telephones are not allowed in the bedroom. Avoid algorithms and don’t fall into the trap of infinite scrolling. Log on to the Internet with a goal and log off when you have achieved it. Schedule specific times of the day to check emails and social media and avoid the digital intoxication that can overwhelm your mind.

Review your sleep routines

Quality sleep is essential for mental detox. Design a consistent and sustainable sleep routine, turn off electronic devices two hours before bedtime and create an environment conducive to rest.

Exercise at least three times a week

Physical activity changes brain activity. Find an activity you enjoy and repeat it at least three times a week. Your brain will thank you with fewer obsessive thoughts, less ruminations and less stress.

Be thankful every day

Professor Bruno Ribeiro, head of the SHA Wellness Clinic’s Cognitive Health Unit, says that the benefits for the brain of meditating and praying are similar. In the case of praying, the professor clarifies that it should be done to give thanks and not to ask for greater benefits. Experts advise that every evening we take a moment to be grateful for three things that have happened during the day, because showing gratitude focuses attention on the positive, and generates an optimistic attitude.

Learn something new

It can be a language, a physical activity, a game or a hobby such as embroidery. New learning stimulates the mind and personal growth. The mind needs to be nourished by new experiences, loves challenges and enjoys testing itself.