“Be Mindful of what you choose to fill your brain with!”
It’s Mental Health Month, so I wanted to take a quick moment to remind you about that little thing inside our heads—our brain.
We only get one, so let’s make sure we’re filling it with things that matter. What we consume—whether social media, conversations, or even food—greatly impacts how we think, feel, and present ourselves in the world.
Filling Your Mind with What Matters
Have you ever noticed how much your mood shifts based on what you’re consuming? I don’t just mean food (we’ll get to that), but all the stuff we take in daily—social media, TV, even the people we surround ourselves with. The truth is, our brains are like sponges, soaking up everything around us. So, we’ve got to be intentional about what we allow in.
I always say, “Nothing comes out of your head that you didn’t put in there first.” So, if we want to feel good, think clearly, and make meaningful progress in our lives, we’ve got to fill our heads with the good stuff. Yes, that Netflix series is tempting, and no judgment if you need to unwind with a binge-watching session—but it’s all about balance.
How Your Brain Filters the Noise
In today’s world, it can feel like we’re constantly bombarded with information, and our brains are doing their best to keep up. But they can only handle so much! That’s why they naturally filter out what’s less important. For example, we’re drawn to things that stand out or align with our goals, so you might notice an article about stress management if you’ve been overwhelmed.
However, this filtering can be a double-edged sword. While it helps us focus on what matters, we might miss out on opportunities if we’re not paying attention. That’s why I encourage you to be mindful of the media and conversations you engage with, ensuring they feed your growth rather than drain your energy.
What to Feed Your Mind
So, what should you be filling your mind with? Here’s what I think makes a real difference:
Positive Affirmations – Start your day by telling yourself something good.
Knowledge – Learning something new is always a good idea, whether it’s a book, podcast, or documentary.
Mindfulness – Taking just a few minutes to breathe deeply or meditate can help calm the chaos in your mind.
Gratitude – Focusing on what you’re thankful for shifts your mindset in powerful ways.
Personal Values—Stay grounded by living in accordance with what truly matters to you.
Humor – Don’t forget to laugh! I love to laugh; it always brings me back to a good place.
Foods and Supplements for Brain Health
Now, let’s talk about what you’re feeding your brain in a more literal sense—through food! The right nutrition can greatly affect your mental clarity, mood, and even long-term brain health. Here are a few things I recommend adding to your diet to keep your brain sharp:
Fatty Fish – Think salmon, mackerel, and sardines. They’re loaded with omega-3 fatty acids essential for brain function and can help reduce anxiety and depression.
Blueberries – These tiny powerhouses are full of antioxidants that support brain health and may even improve memory.
Leafy Greens – Kale, spinach, and broccoli are packed with nutrients like vitamin K, which is known to support cognitive function.
Nuts and Seeds – Walnuts, flaxseeds, and chia seeds are great sources of healthy fats and antioxidants that help reduce brain fog.
Dark Chocolate – Yes, you read that right! Dark chocolate (in moderation) is rich in flavonoids that boost memory and mood.
Turmeric – This spice contains curcumin, which can cross the blood-brain barrier and has anti-inflammatory properties that support brain health.
Green Tea – Loaded with antioxidants and caffeine, green tea helps with alertness, focus, and even relaxation thanks to an amino acid called L-theanine.
Supplements – If you’re not getting enough nutrients from your diet, supplements like omega-3s, B vitamins, and magnesium can help fill in the gaps.
What to Avoid
Just like there are things that nourish your brain, there are also things you’ll want to steer clear of:
Misinformation—It’s easy to believe everything we read or hear. Always fact-check and look for credible sources.
Confirmation Bias – We all have beliefs that we hold close to, but be open to new perspectives. It’s how we grow!
Negativity – Do your best to limit these inputs, whether it’s toxic news cycles or people who drain your energy.
A Balanced Mind = A Fulfilling Life
At the end of the day, what we feed our minds (and our bodies) determines how we feel, how we think, and how we live. Especially as women in leadership, entrepreneurs, and moms, it’s so easy to get caught up in the hustle and forget to take care of ourselves. But trust me, you’ll be more effective, happier, and healthier when you make space for the things that truly nourish your mind and body.
So, as we reflect on Mental Health Month, ask yourself: Are you filling your brain with things that matter or things that drain you? You’ve only got one brain—let’s take good care of it!
Take Action
This month, I challenge you to be more intentional about what you consume—whether it’s social media, conversations, or food. Engage with content that helps you grow, surround yourself with people who uplift you, and nourish your body with brain-boosting foods. You deserve it!
Let’s take this time to fill our minds and bodies with the good stuff.
Live Well,
Claire x
