When it comes to attention, competing with today’s digital world is tough.
In today’s world of constant distraction, having a strong attention span is becoming increasingly challenging. In fact, studies have shown that up to 70% of adults now suffer from a short attention span due to the bombardment of digital media. Fortunately, there are several strategies that can help improve cognitive performance and overall wellness while also cultivating healthier habits for more focused attention.
Mindfulness techniques such as breathing exercises, meditation and yoga have been proven effective in increasing attentiveness when practiced regularly. Harvard researchers found that after completing 10-minute mindfulness sessions each day for eight weeks, participants experienced significant improvements in their ability to concentrate without becoming easily distracted or fatigued.
Sleep has been identified as an essential factor in managing attention spans, too. Without sufficient rest, the brain is unable to properly recharge, leading to shorter concentration times and decreased cognitive performance throughout the day. Harvard researchers determined that during periods of inadequate sleep, a person’s ability to maintain focus decreases significantly compared to those who get enough restful sleep each night. Chronic fatigue caused by prolonged periods of insufficient sleep can lead to mental exhaustion.
A study conducted by the National Institutes of Health found that people who regularly got 7-9 hours of sleep per night had higher cognitive scores than those who slept less than 6 hours per night. Furthermore, scientists at UCLA discovered that individuals who prioritized getting enough restful sleep each night performed better on tasks related to sustained attention compared with those who did not prioritize their sleeping habits.
Nutrition plays an integral role in sustaining mental energy throughout the day and helping people maintain a strong attention span. Eating regular, balanced meals with plenty of protein helps nourish the brain with essential vitamins and minerals. Furthermore, avoiding foods high in sugar or other unhealthy ingredients can reduce fatigue later on which could hinder concentration levels when trying to remain alert and productive.
Studies have shown that when people eat a healthy, balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and complex carbohydrates they are better able to focus for long periods of time. This is due to the fact that these nutrient-rich foods provide the brain with adequate fuel so it can function more efficiently without becoming easily fatigued or distracted. Additionally, foods rich in Omega-3 fatty acids like salmon and mackerel have been proven to improve mental clarity as well as memory recall.
It’s also important to ensure that the body gets enough fluids during the day as dehydration has a direct impact on cognitive performance. When the body isn’t given enough H20, the brain can easily become fatigued. Dehydration makes it much more likely that it will be difficult to focus on daily responsibilities.
By taking the time to invest in a little routine self-care, practicing mindful strategies, getting adequate sleep on a regular basis and eating nutritious meals that are low in sugar or unhealthy ingredients, attention spans can increase significantly. Cultivating healthy habits that promote better concentration levels will counteract the constant distractions of the digital world. It’s important to provide the brain with some balance.
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Your attention span is shrinking, studies say. Here’s how to stay focused
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