How to Clear Mental Fatigue [Bayside Meditation]

Feb 22, 2022

3 min read

Written by Vicky Theodoropoulos

William James explored the idea of a “second wind” in The Energies of Men. An introductory note in the 1911 edition cautions against treating the essay as advice to push everyone beyond ordinary endurance. When activity makes fatigue worse, pacing and medical advice matter. Read The Energies of Men.

Do you feel you are caught in the thickness of mental fatigue, decreased focus, alertness, and word retrieval, yet can’t seem to escape? People often call these thinking difficulties “brain fog.” Depression and anxiety can affect concentration, but both have complex causes. They should not be explained simply as holding on to the past or worrying about the future. Paying attention to the present can be a personal practice alongside appropriate care.

What is brain fog?

Brain fog describes symptoms such as difficulty concentrating, remembering information or finding words. The experience and duration vary. It is not explained by one universal shift in body chemistry, and a healthcare professional can help investigate persistent symptoms.

Possible contributors to brain fog

- Poor or insufficient sleep

- Poor nutrition

- Stress

- Depression or anxiety

- Medication effects or other medical conditions

- Illness or recovery after an infection, including Long COVID

- Attention difficulties that can overlap with conditions such as ADHD and need their own assessment

These are examples rather than a diagnosis. Similar symptoms can have different causes, so a foggy day does not establish any one condition.

How can it feel?

The feeling may vary from person to person. You might feel drained, as if you are on a 5% battery, and find conversations or everyday tasks harder to follow. That can be frustrating. Taking breaks, writing down reminders and asking for support may help make the day more manageable. New vision changes should not be assumed to be brain fog.

Symptoms people may describe

- Difficulty concentrating

– feeling fatigued

- Thinking more slowly than usual

– more distracted

– trouble organizing thoughts

-forgetfulness

-word finding difficulties

When to seek support

If mental fatigue persists or interferes with daily life, speak with a healthcare professional. Sudden confusion, trouble speaking or seeing, or one-sided weakness can be stroke symptoms: call 911 right away. Be patient with yourself as you seek support. As Charlie Mackesy writes, “One of the kindest things you can do is be gentle with yourself.” Charlie Mackesy’s original wording.

Everyday support for mental fatigue

Get enough quality sleep

Track your sleep schedule and notice how rested you feel. Most adults need around 7 to 9 hours, though needs vary. A regular bedtime and wake time can be helpful; ongoing sleep problems are worth discussing with a healthcare professional.

Manage stress through relaxation techniques
Meditation may help some people with stress or well-being, but it is not established as the best treatment for brain fog, depression or anxiety. Brain-imaging findings are mixed and do not justify a promise that meditation strengthens the prefrontal cortex. Fight-or-flight responses involve the sympathetic nervous system. Relaxation practices may help some people settle after stress. Through guided meditation I have learned to slow down and let go of the continuous thoughts that race in my mind from the minute I wake up till I go to bed, leading to clarity and inner peace. Keep in mind that even though “there are dark clouds in the sky, that darkness will fade and you will only see the clear blue sky”. Experiences differ, and an encouraging image does not guarantee a particular outcome. The studies discussed here do not test the Bayside Meditation method. Evidence and safety overview. Brain-structure trial.
Comfortable, slow breathing is one general relaxation option that may help with stress. Choose a gentle pace without forcing the breath, and stop if it makes you uncomfortable. This suggestion is separate from any description of Bayside’s meditation method.
Eat healthy foods

Aim for regular, varied meals that include vegetables, fruit, whole grains and protein foods. Changes in energy or symptoms depend on the person and the underlying cause; a specific improvement within two or three weeks cannot be promised.

There is no one-size-fits-all approach. These ideas can support self-care while you look for the cause of persistent symptoms and follow appropriate treatment. We rise by lifting each other.