By Palak Bhatt | Midas Touch by Palak
Take a deep breath. Now, close your eyes for a second and ask yourself, when was the last time you gave your brain a break?
In a world that rarely slows down, our minds are constantly on. From early morning alarms to never-ending notifications, the modern brain is in a state of perpetual motion. Yet just like our bodies need rest, movement, and nourishment, so too does our brain.
Welcome to this month’s iN Nairobi Wellness Column, where we explore how to love and care for the most powerful organ in your body, your mind.
Photo: Cottonbro Studios / Pexels
How the Brain Works and Why Rest Matters
The human brain is a magnificent machine. It controls everything: from your heartbeat and breath to your thoughts, emotions, and memories. But here’s the secret most of us forget your brain is not a machine. It needs time off.
Lack of rest can cloud your thinking, mess with your mood, and even affect your physical health. Rest whether through quality sleep, mindfulness, or creative activities allows the brain to detox, repair, and recharge.
Almost everything will work again if you unplug it for a few minutes… including you.” — Anne Lamott
Feed Your Mind: Brain Boosting Foods
Photo: Vanessa Loring / Pexels
What we eat directly affects our brain’s performance. The right nutrients can improve memory, focus, and even mood. Here are some foods your brain loves:
Berries – Rich in antioxidants that improve communication between brain cells.
Walnuts – Shaped like little brains for a reason; full of omega-3s.
Avocados – Healthy fats that support cognitive function.
Leafy greens – Like kale and spinach, rich in folate and B vitamins
Dark chocolate – Yes, in moderation! It boosts serotonin and blood flow to the brain.
Try this: next time you’re snacking, ask yourself, Is this feeding my body, my brain, or both?
Activities That Soothe the Mind
Just as you’d train your body, your brain benefits from regular “workouts.” Here are simple activities you can try this week:
Meditate for 5–10 minutes a day
Journal your thoughts without judgment.
Walk in nature and leave your phone at home.
Listen to music that moves you emotionally.
Unplug from screens for one full evening.
You don’t have to do them all pick one and give it your full attention.
Photo: Oluremi Adebayo / Pexels
Emotional Well-being = Brain Well-being
Your emotions live in the brain, too. So when your heart hurts, your mind responds. And when your mind is overwhelmed, your emotions spill over.
Check in with yourself regularly:
Am I holding onto stress I don’t need to?
What’s one small thing I can do today to feel more at peace?
Who can I talk to about how I’m really feeling?
“Your mind will answer most questions if you learn to relax and wait for the answer.” — William S. Burroughs
Let’s Talk!
What’s one thing that helps you reset your mind?
We’d love to feature reader responses in our next column.
Send your thoughts to 0742433212, tag us on Instagram @in.nairobi / @midastouchbypalak with #OnOurMind, or just leave comments below.
Until next time, be kind to your mind. It’s the only one you’ve got.
Love & Light
Palak Bhatt
Mindfulness Coach & Reiki Master
0742433212