Just as we now have a Healthy Food Plate, which the government recently released to replace the Food Pyramid, why not also adopt a Healthy Mind Platter. (Courtesy of Dr. Dan Siegel)
Seven daily essential mental activities to optimize brain matter and create well-being:
Focus Time. When we closely focus on tasks in a goal-oriented way, we take on challenges that make deep connections in the brain.
Play Time. When we allow ourselves to be spontaneous or creative, playfully enjoying novel experiences, we help make new connections in the brain.
Connecting Time. When we connect with other people, ideally in person, and when we take time to appreciate our connection to the natural world around us, we activate and reinforce the brain's relational circuitry.
Physical Time. When we move our bodies, especially aerobically, we strengthen the brain in many ways.
Time In. When we quietly reflect internally, focusing on sensations, images, feelings and thoughts, we help to better integrate the brain.
Down Time. When we are non-focused, without any specific goal, and let our mind wander or simply relax, we help the brain recharge.
Sleep Time. When we give the brain the rest it needs, we consolidate learning and recover from the experiences of the day.
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