I have a confession to make – I am having difficulty concentrating.
Ever since I have come back from almost a month’s break from work, I find myself woefully lacking in my ability to concentrate while writing. Almost every few minutes I am tempted to check my business email, Facebook page, mobile or Elance account.
Admittedly I need to stay off of the casual surfing and as I write this blog I pledge to do so 🙂
I could attribute the lack of concentration to the commonly known factors of anxiety and stress, of which I am happy to report I have very little of, especially since quitting my banking job. I also get a good night’s sleep, eat meals on time and exercise 5 days a week.
By virtue of simple elimination I have come to the simple conclusion that it’s a case of ‘mind over matter’ and being conscious of the need to concentrate is the first step.
But like any other muscle in the body the brain must be conditioned.
Focus without blinking at the centre of the candle flame
I turned to researching some exercises for improving concentration levels and found these 3 simple tips.
The candle focus exercise: This is a yogic technique. Light a candle or a lamp and keep it at a slight distance either at the eye level or below the eye level. Focus in the centre of the flame without blinking for as long as you can. As tears begin to stream down your cheeks from the strain, close your eyes, relax and begin again. This simple exercise is great for building concentration levels and calming the mind.
Spend 30 minutes a day reading non-office material
Reading: Focused reading improves concentration. Make an effort to read for 20-25 minutes every day. And no, office reading emails does not count. Pick a magazine or a novel instead.
Play a mind-game that compels the mind to focus
Play a mind game: Sudoku and crosswords puzzles are a fun way to flex your brain and improve concentration.
I would love to hear from you on your time-tested tips for improving concentration levels. So do share in the comment box below.
In fact writing this blog has also helped 🙂 Adios…till we meet again.