Navigating the (Brain) Fog

Have you ever felt like your brain can't seem to focus on anything, and even the simplest tasks feel like a huge chore? It's like mental fatigue sets in, and you can't seem to shake it off. It's frustrating, right?

Also known as cognitive dysfunction, it can be challenging to find the words to describe fog. And it can make everything in your life feel overwhelming.

While we sometimes joke about brain fog, a shared experience, it is not normal. There may be underlying factors to consider.

There is a silver lining, though. The presence of underlying drivers gives us the opportunity to discover and correct them so we can experience clarity and energy and get on with juggling all the life things again.

Here is a list of things I see in clinic, that contribute to brain fog:

Underlying drivers of brain fog

• Poor gut health and microbiome out of whack

• Hormonal changes – especially peri-menopause, menopause and pregnancy

• Stress, trauma and overwhelm

• Health conditions such as thyroid disorders, migraine and fibromyalgia

• Mould illness

• After effects of virus infections

• Nutrient deficiencies

• Food intolerances

• ADHD

• Dehydration

• Yeast infections

What you can do about it

Firstly, seeing a health practitioner to investigate any possible underlying factors is best. As a naturopath, I undertake a comprehensive health assessment, possibly consider testing and then put together a health plan to address your individual factors with personalised nutrition advice, herbal medicines and supplements, and a couple of sessions of Emotional Release Technique.

It is usual to have multiple contributing factors, which can impact each other, so it can be comforting to have someone guide you through it all.

Many have also found the following helpful:

• Go to bed earlier if you can, start unwinding for bed as soon as possible after sunset, and rise to the sun.

• Acquire some natural sunlight during the day, especially in the morning. A walk in nature is a perfect activity for brain health.

• Take mental breaks during the day. Try for at least 5 minutes every hour (or more) and a cheeky 20-minute meditation after lunch.

• Try something new at least once weekly to break your rut and spark new ideas.

• Avoid high-carb foods (especially sugar) and processed foods.

• Look at ways to organise, automate and document everything you need to do, and be open to delegating where possible.