Published on : October 7, 2024
When you’re driving, maintaining a high level of alertness and concentration is a high-stakes game. At 50 km/h, a vehicle covers almost 14 meters in a second. Human lives often depend on the driver’s concentration and reaction time. However, concentration is key in many other areas of life. How can you improve it? There are several natural ways to improve memory and concentration.
1. Sleep and regeneration
How to support memory and concentration, and consequently road safety? The number one natural method is regeneration through sleep. Brain function, and especially memory and the ability to concentrate, are directly dependent on whether we are well-rested. This can be checked by solving mathematical operations of a similar level of difficulty on time. One in the case of sleep deprivation and the other – after a good night’s sleep. The right amount of sleep equals brain health at the highest level. It has long been known that even an uneducated but well-rested student will achieve a better result on the exam.
2. Physical activity
Physical exercise is the second, seemingly obvious, but often overlooked way to improve concentration and memory. Some studies confirm that practicing sports even for 15 minutes a day improves blood circulation and, consequently, brain function almost immediately. Regular exercise can also improve the ability to concentrate in another way. How? Training requires concentration only on signals from the environment. It can be compared to meditation in motion – when running, focus on the surroundings, not on your every move. Such “mindful” runners achieve statistically better results. As a result, the better blood-supplied brain “learns” how to increase concentration, and “as a reward” receives portions of endorphins that appear thanks to the effort.
3. Eliminate distractions
Everyone needs to learn their own work style and the conditions that are optimal for concentration, but one rule remains the same: mercilessly eliminate distractions. We can be distracted by almost anything; from reaching for social media to the desire to pet a cat, but removing the five most powerful distractions from your field of vision is enough to make it much easier to improve memory and concentration while working. People working remotely need to try especially hard to do this. Where to start? By making a written list of the TOP 5 distractions and absolutely avoiding them until the task is finished. Well, unless the hungry cat has become painfully persistent.
4. A diet that improves concentration and memory
Memory supplements have flooded the Polish market and are very popular, although few of them can be properly absorbed and keep the body in good shape. Instead of swallowing pills, it is worth opting for a balanced diet, which will most effectively support concentration during work and study. Just remember to provide the body with B vitamins, present in walnuts, for example, and omega-3 acids, contained in fish, because they have a significant impact on cognitive functions and the functioning of the nervous system. It is difficult to maintain a healthy lifestyle today, but you can take care of the composition of your meals to keep your brain in good shape every day.
5. Natural products for memory and concentration
Kuina or Teina
The most popular is of course caffeine, found in coffee and its equivalent, theine, found in tea. Both are the best-known agents that improve concentration while studying and working. However, it should be remembered that too much caffeine can lead to unwanted side effects, such as heart palpitations, gastric problems, irritability and overstimulation. What can be used instead of another espresso in such a situation?
Rhodiola rosea
Rhodiola rosea, also known as mountain chrysanthemum, is an adaptogenic herb that can help reduce symptoms of fatigue and improve mental alertness. The recommended dose is usually 200-600 mg per day.
Bacopa monnieri
Bacopa monnieri extract is traditionally used in Ayurveda to improve cognitive function. Studies show it can improve concentration and alertness. The recommended dose is usually 300 mg per day.
CBD
Cannabidiol is one of many naturally occurring substances called cannabinoids. It is obtained from the components of cultivated plants, such as hemp. CBD is non-psychoactive, so it does not cause the intoxication caused by the most famous cannabinoid, THC. In contrast, CBD can actually increase cognitive abilities. In the form of inhalation, it is delivered directly to the respiratory system, which allows for a quick and concentrated effect, ideal for people who need immediate support CBD can also be taken in the form of an oil, which combines hemp extracts with functional terpenes. It contains 22.2% CBD and a high concentration of CBG, which help improve concentration and cognitive functions. The addition of terpenes – i.e. fragrance compounds naturally occurring in plants, additionally enhances the effect of the oil, affecting the serotonergic system and the nervous system – explains Dr. Andrzej Kwaśnica, founder of the Lab4Tox Toxicology Research Laboratory and an expert at Smart Monkey Lab. In summary, this is still new to many, but numerous studies show that regular supplementation can have a positive effect on memory, concentration and overall cognitive function. It is worth remembering, however, that the effectiveness and safety of CBD preparations may vary depending on the individual characteristics of the body and other factors. It is always recommended to consult a doctor before starting supplementation, especially if there are any existing diseases or other medications are being taken. See for yourself how Smart Monkey Lab products work in the FOCUS formula.
