give your brain a break

Every morning before work, Marlena Reed closes her eyes and meditates as wafting lemon grass embraces her.

For 15 to 30 minutes, she blocks out to-do lists and looming deadlines and lets thoughts float in and out.

You may not believe it, but experts say rituals such as this are key to overall health — and just as important as exercising and eating veggies.

"Keeping that balance between work and life is what keeps us sane," said Tevis Gale, a workplace coach who leads workshops across the country. "Yet, we forget to take the time to check our mental status and give it importance."

And with soaring gas prices and shaky economic times, experts say taking care of your mental health is even more important.

"That feeling of emptiness and exhaustion is a sign we need to tend to things," said Emory University sociologist Corey Keyes.

The brain, experts say, needs breaks — whether it's through meditation, yoga, a massage, a pedicure or simply sitting in a park or taking some deep breaths with your morning brew. "People tend to see it as indulgent, and we have to change that," said Keyes. "Taking care of ourselves is fundamental and, without that, there is no physical health."

* * *

Some tips on keeping the pace and the balance:

• Take a moment before you tackle those dishes: Create pauses between activities. Give closure to one, such as playing with the kids, before doing chores. Ever wonder why you forget why you are going into a room? Maybe your mind is racing with too many thoughts.

• Create a salon culture at work: Get together once a month and discuss a neutral topic, such as organic gardening. The session may build community and stimulate creativity.

• Step outside the chatter in your mind: Do yoga or take a walk and train your mind to take a break. Don’t think about your job or the pile of laundry. As you are walking, turn off your cell phone and stop that mental to-do list. Try a focusing game like listening to the sound of your foot hit the pavement or look for the color red in the environment. Give the brain a rest — and a solution you’ve been seeking may pop into your mind afterward.

• No-rules art and dance: Try to be expressive in either discipline. Move any way you want.

• Get up from the computer: Every 45 minutes to an hour, leave your desk, even if it’s for a quick stretch or glass of water.

• Cultivate meaningful relationships: Loving, supportive relationships are key to your overall health. Quality time with your family is quality time for your brain. Smiles and hugs help, too.

— The Atlanta Journal-Constitution