The mind is constantly on the go whether you're awake or asleep; it never rests. When a particular project calls for complete concentration, and your mind would rather wander all over the place despite your best efforts to rein it in, then you are experiencing restless mind syndrome. Everyone is unsettled by this problem occasionally, but there are a few easy steps to follow to improve focus and drive.
Causes
External disturbances can at times derail a person's focus. If you're absorbed in a task, for instance, a loud noise can be especially startling. Adrenaline shoots through your body and your mind starts racing, trying to figure out the source of the interruption. Even if you discover what caused the noise, you will no doubt find it difficult to refocus on the task before you. Boredom, stress, too much caffeine, and lack of exercise are other common factors that trigger restless mind syndrome.
Improving Concentration
If you find that you have consistent trouble with focusing your thoughts, you can learn to improve concentration. Sometimes it's as simple getting into the habit of steering your mind back to the task at hand instead of giving in to its wanderings.
Relaxation
Relaxation techniques and meditation exercises help to quiet wayward thoughts and settle restless minds. Getting the mind to relax can be as simple as sitting in a quiet place for a few minutes each day, and allowing your thoughts to go wherever they choose. This practice sounds counter-intuitive, but it actually works because you're giving your brain permission to drift for a while. Taking this time out to relax and de-stress is usually all it takes to get your mind back on track.
Exercise
Regular exercise also calms restless mind syndrome. Whether it's a 10-minute walk around the block, a 20-minute yoga routine, or 30-minutes on a treadmill, exercise relieves stress and releases endorphins---those feel-good chemicals that boost mood and clear your mind.
Deep Breathing
The quickest method for overcoming racing thoughts is to stop what you're doing, close your eyes, inhale deeply through your nose for a count of five, hold for a count of five, then breathe out through your mouth for a count of 10. Imagine blowing on a spoonful of hot soup. Repeat between three and 10 times to quiet restless a mind.
Reduce Caffeine
Too much coffee and caffeine-laden drinks could be the culprits behind a restless mind. Reaching for a cup of java every time your energy is low can cause your body and mind to go into overdrive. Limit daily intake to two cups of coffee per day. Replace caffeinated drinks with herbal teas or, better yet, water. After a few days your energy level will be better than ever, along with your concentration.
Conclusion
Restless mind syndrome can be caused by many factors, most of which are easily taken care of through exercise, stress reduction, and cutting back on caffeine. Within a few weeks you should see substantial results in mental focus by following the suggestions listed here.
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