As I woke up this morning and gazed out the window at the fog, I couldn't help but draw a parallel to the state of my mind lately. It was a perfect visual for how I was feeling. We've all experienced it, some more frequently than others, and often, we're quick to attribute it to the aging process.
I have recently taken a break from my routine due to traveling and being away from my usual schedule. When I returned, I began editing 26 short stories and sent them to a professional editor to catch my mistakes. I loaded them in Dropbox and emailed MK a note, but then I realized this project was only halfway completed. That is when the fog rolled in.
According to everydayhealth.com, there are ways to improve cognitive sluggishness and suggest potential causes, including insufficient sleep, poor nutrition, a lack of physical activity, and excessive clutter (also related to electronic overload).
Reflecting on my recent habits, I am ticking off the potential causes of my cognitive sluggishness. Lack of sleep? Not a problem. Decluttering? I can take an area and improve it a few hours a day. However, I must admit that I've struggled with maintaining a balanced diet and consistent physical activity.
After reading the article on everydayhealth.com, I learned that I need to eat foods that fuel my mind and increase my blood flow. Then, I read about the benefits of a Mediterranean Diet, so I am adding that to my research list. Do you see a pattern here? I’m avoiding the obvious!
There is something very daunting about looking at a pile of notes and ideas on paper. First, I need to begin deciphering my handwriting; the free thoughts that wander freely on the page. But isn't that the start? The first 26 stories began the same way, evolving out of a similar cluttered mess. Yes, I am procrastinating and using my foggy brain as an excuse for being stuck in writing, and even further away from working on a new art piece.
Oh, but I did wash the windows today, inside and out, and I have clarity of vision out my window. The house feels clean.
So, what are my goals for this week, and how will I pick up the short stories again? I haven’t the foggiest idea.
Please let me know if you struggle with a foggy brain and what helpful suggestions you have. I would love to hear from you.
