The Link Between Healthy Routines & Brain Health

Healthy routines and brain health aren't mutually exclusive, but they do both have an impact on each other. A solid and reliable routine helps reduce stress via certainty, while an energized and clear mind makes routines much easier. So, here are some of the most common benefits.

Improved Overall Mood

There are seemingly minor parts of a person's day that can have a major impact on their quality of life. Sunlight, drinking fresh water, and even using the right supplements can all have a positive effect. For example, metabolic compounds for cognitive research have proven that a person can reduce stress and improve energy using common examples such as vitamins, glucose, and lipids. A balanced diet with natural supplements will improve your overall mood.

A Reduction in Stress Levels

Stress is like a four letter word these days, but most people experience it more than they should. Routines are excellent at providing a sense of stability in an otherwise chaotic world, and helps keep your personal self-care on track. The predictable structure and nature of a routine alleviates the brain of the stress of not knowing what will happen. In turn, you will experience lower anxiety and a clearer mind, making keeping up with routines much easier.

Healthy Routines and Brain Health for Sleep

Sleeping well is elusive for some people. The right environment can help, and things like low noise, darkness, and even air conditioning can improve your sleep quality. However, around 33% of people have trouble getting to sleep and staying asleep because of stress and anxiety:

• A consistent schedule is key and requires rituals, as well as avoiding stimulants.

• Relaxation will help, so practice mindfulness meditation and unwind before bed.

• Diet and exercise will help, so eat a balanced evening meal and exercise during the day.

Better Concentration and Focus

It can feel like every day is one of those days when things have gotten off-track. Feeling anxious, depressed and stressed are usually signs that something isn't right. As a result, it becomes hard to focus on even mental tasks, and can affect your work. Routines take away a lot of the decisions of a process, freeing up your mind from the fog of uncertainty. You can also prioritize tasks in order of importance and urgency, cancelling the stress that comes with it.

A Sense of Control and Security

Mental health experts often state that structure and routine are among the most powerful ways to deal with life issues such as grief, job loss, and bouts of depression. Through routine, you can exercise more control over the things that need to be done, which is a blessing during some of the more challenging times in life, especially at times of loss. This sets aside personal time for dealing with the issues at hand and mentally coming to terms with the things causing stress.

Summary

Better overall mood is a common result of healthy routines and brain health from providing structure in life. You may find that a well-planned routine will also help you sleep better, with dramatic results. However, routine also provides security and structure during challenging times.