The Source of Brain Fog and understanding the need for The WELL Building Standard™ (WELL), which optimizes cognitive and emotional health through design and treatment strategies with its 10 concepts: Mind, Comfort, Material, Fitness/Movement, Water, Air, Light, Sound, Nourishment, and Community.
A physical space, or the building where we spend the most time inside, should enhance our mood. Integrating aesthetically pleasing elements into a space can provide comfort or joy to any building where we spend the most time inside. Mental and physical health are interconnected; for instance, exercise increases serotonin release, elevating mood and regulating sleep cycles. Conversely, worrying can trigger physiological responses similar to physical stress or injury that can cause brain fog.
Pinpointing the Source of Brain Fog
Finding the cause of brain fog can be complex due to its vague nature. Several avenues should be considered:
· Anxiety: Anxiety impacts concentration and obstructs our ability to focus.
· Hormonal changes: Variations in hormones can dull memory and mental acuity, often seen in hypothyroidism or menopause.
· Poor sleep quality: Sleep deprivation hampers brain cell communication and slows down mental processing.
· Unhealthy diets: Sensitivities to certain foods or additives can affect brain functioning, seen in cases involving peanuts, dairy products, MSG, aspartame, or gluten in those with Celiac disease.
· Autoimmune diseases: Conditions like systemic lupus erythematosus, multiple sclerosis, and diabetes impact mental functioning through inflammatory processes or blood sugar fluctuations.
· Fibromyalgia: Often referred to as "fibro fog" among sufferers.
· Certain infections: Lyme disease, COVID-19, and select viruses impair mental functioning.
Solutions
Relief begins when we can pinpoint the causes of brain fog, which may include multiple factors. Addressing stress effectively and improving sleep habits by switching to more comfortable bed sheets will help. Wear signal-blocking apparel; seek medical advice, and engage in mind-stimulating activities like reading, doing crossword puzzles, or creative efforts can enhance mental perception, according to Harvard Health. Time in nature, regular movement/exercise, and addressing vitamin deficiencies can also help mitigate brain fog. Overcoming this challenge is possible with persistence and various strategies tailored to individual needs.