The Importance of Mental Self Care

Last week, we talked about the power of the mind and how important good cognitive (or mental) self-care is for us on a daily basis.

Did you know that we took strategic naps in the military?

Before a mission, we would take a prophylactic nap (normally around 30 minutes) to rejuvenate our minds and bodies. Studies have shown that these naps have the same impact as drinking 12 cups of coffee! We did this in order to stay mentally alert and sharp.

Similarly, as civilians, we need to daily take opportunities to engage in mindful self-care (see last week’s blog for some practical ideas).

According to Dr. Caroline Leaf, communication pathologist, cognitive neuroscientist  and  author of books like Switch On Your Brain and Think, Learn, Succeed: Understanding and Using Your Mind to Thrive at School, the Workplace, and Life, “Mental self-care is integrally interwoven into a life of meaning which naturally evolves into a life of success…”

Simply put, good mental self-care is the key to a happier and more fulfilling lifestyle. It will help you get out of bed in the morning with more drive, purpose and motivation. Substantial research has shown that good mental self-care can help us learn effectively, change our circumstances, increase creativity, better our relationships, improve memory, and increase our emotional control (EQ).