The Healthy Mind Platter

As someone who has struggled with depression I am well aware of the intricacies of the human mind and the variety of things we can do to help with mental health and wellbeing. Recently, I was introduced to The Healthy Mind Platter a theory created in collaboration by Dr. David Rock, executive director of the NeuroLeadership Institute  and Dr. Daniel Siegel , executive director of the Mindsight Institute and clinical professor at the UCLA School of Medicine.

The Healthy Mind Platter suggests that there are seven daily activities that we must include like ingredients in our daily mental diet. Because we are all different we each require a different serving of these ingredients everyday. Just like you wouldn't eat only pizza every day for days on end, we shouldn't just live on focus time and little sleep. Mental wellness is all about giving your brain lots of opportunities to develop in different ways.

So here are the basics…

The Healthy Mind Platter

The seven essential mental activities necessary for optimum mental health in daily life

Focus Time

When we closely focus on tasks in a goal-oriented way, taking on challenges that make deep connections in the brain.

Play Time

When we allow ourselves to be spontaneous or creative, playfully enjoying novel experiences, which helps make new connections in the brain.

Connecting Time

When we connect with other people, ideally in person, or take time to appreciate our connection to the natural world around us, richly activating the brain’s relational circuitry.

Physical Time

When we move our bodies, aerobically if possible, which strengthens the brain in many ways.

Time In

When we quietly reflect internally, focusing on sensations, images, feelings and thoughts, helping to better integrate the brain.

Down Time

When we are non- focused, without any specific goal, and let our mind wander or simply relax, which helps our brain recharge.

Sleep Time

When we give the brain the rest it needs to consolidate learning and recover from the experiences of the day.

I really felt that this whole concept resonated with me - I don't know if it is because it was related to food and eating my favourite things EVER or because I am fascinated by the human brain but I am definitely a believer! 

I guess it all comes down to...

I hope you all have a fabulous weekend! 

Love Chloe x