Summer 2014 Edition Newsletter

Personal Note From Josh and Laura

We had a great few days off at the beach with Josh's family. They have a fun tradition of renting a beach house every year on the Newport Beach Peninsula. It's close to our home but makes for the perfect stay-cation. We also got to see some amazing sand sculptures from Josh's brother Adam. Every year he surprises us with new creations.

This is also the same time each summer that we find ourselves a bit out of routine. This week's quick-step has easy ways we can keep our brains active and healthy even during long summer days.

All the best,

Weekly Quick-Step For the Prosperous Family

Quick-Step: 6 Steps For Combating Summer Brain Slump.

What it is: Taking a few minutes out of each long summer day to keep your brain healthy and active.

Why you need this: As we get settled into long summer days that are a bit out of routine, it is easy to fall into a mental slump. We start using less brain power which can take us from relaxation mode into slump mode very quickly. Following these 6 simple tips will help you keep your mind active and healthy while enjoying the fun of summer.

Estimated time: 10 to 15 minutes a day

How to do it:

Keep connecting: There is a strong connection between having healthy friendships and improved mental health, including memory and focus. Put your phone down and try making a new friend while watching swim lessons or chat with a parent at the beach.
Move the body. There is a direct connection between our physical bodies and our brains — the health and strength of one impacts positively the other. Even a twenty minute summer night walk after your spouse or kids go to bed can do wonders for your mind.
Use structure. Having a system for everyday tasks can be a tremendous help for scattered minds. Since routines tend to change during the summertime, try mapping out each day first thing in the morning so you know what to expect and plan for.
Brain workouts. Once we master a new activity, be it posting on Pinterest or cooking a new food, our brain no longer creates new neural connections for them. Keep trying new things for brain boosting. Brain teasers, word puzzles, and logic problems are fantastic for your mind.
Good night, sleep tight. Sleep is key for our health, both physical and mental. If you have little ones who interfere, try tag teaming with your spouse so you can alternate chunks of sleep time.
Food for thought. A healthy overall diet is directly linked to a healthy mind. Give your body and mind fresh, unprocessed, whole foods with an emphasis on fruits, veggies, healthy fats, nuts, and seeds. Also make sure you are drinking enough water.

For more tips on having a healthy mind, read Battling Mommy Brain: Six Strategies to Boost Brain Health by Lisa Byrne.