Did you know? The “H” in ADHD isn’t just about physical hyperactivity — it also describes a hyperactive mind. We all get a little distracted at times. When you need to focus on something specific, try these 12 tips for calming your mind from @perry.mandis.md.
"The mind of someone with ADHD is a GREAT thing — they’re creative, excellent just-in-time problem solvers, and fantastic brainstormers. You want them on your team when it’s time to come up with new ideas. However, when you need to focus on something specific, all that mental activity can be distracting and lead restlessness and anxiety." - @perry.mandis.md
12 WAYS TO CALM YOUR MIND:
Post credit - @perry.mandis.md
1. Perform the 5 senses mindfulness exercise.
Name 5 things you see, 4 you hear, 3 you feel, 2 you smell, and 1 you taste.
2. Breath-work in 4’s.
Take slow breaths in through the nose to a count of 4, and out through the mouth for two counts of 4. Repeat for 4 minutes.
3. Be grateful.
Gratitude shifts the brain away from scanning for the negative to noticing the positive — which is calmer.
4. Move.
Take a short walk, ride a bike, or dance in place.
5. Create a vision board.
Keep it where you see it throughout the day. Fill it with images and words that describe the life you want and picture a positive future.
6. Smell essential oils
Lavender (calm), Rosemary (focus), Eucalyptus/Peppermint (clarity)
7. Take a warm bath or shower.
Warming the body calms the mind.
8. Laugh out loud.
Watch a favorite comedy, ask a friend to tell you a joke, and laugh.
9. Listen to binaural beats that train your brain to reach a calm state of mind.
Google “binaural beats” for more information on tracks that can be downloaded onto your mobile device. Check out our YouTube playlist!
10. Walk barefoot in the grass (or hug a tree).
Science has proven that when our bodies make physical contact with the earth’s surface, we feel grounded and calm.
11. Call a friend.
A good conversation focuses and calms hyperactive free-for-all thinking.
12. Practice EFT Tapping.
Google the term to learn more. Tapping when stressed can quickly calm a hyperactive mind.
Make it your own!
Experiment with the techniques that appeal to you and create your own. The possibilities to calm the body and mind are available to us through the Earth's vital connection. Create your own techniques and share with us in the comments!
Celebrate and embrace that wonderfully creative mind of yours, while at the same time, teaching it how to take a break when you need it. It’s all about striking a balance — and you CAN do it!
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