Washington County Weekend Post

2A • WASHINGTON COUNTY POST • SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 2020 GMTODAY.COM Energy levels tend to ebb and flow throughout a typi- cal workday. A cup of coffee may provide some caffeine- infused spark in the morn- ing, but a big lunch can squash energy later in the afternoon. Waning mental sharp- ness as the workday pro- gresses can compromise pro- ductivity, making it more dif- ficult for workers to com- plete projects on time. That, in turn, can contribute to stress. In fact, in its "2017 Stress in America" survey, the American Psychological Association found that 58 percent of Americans say work is a significant source of stress. Staying mentally fresh during a workday can pay a host of benefits, and the fol- lowing are just a few ways to maintain mental focus until quitting time. • Exercise regularly. The physical benefits of rou- tine exercise are well docu- mented. But even the most ardent fitness enthusiasts may not realize just how big an impact physical activity is having on their brains. The Harvard Medical School notes that exercise stimu- lates regions of the brain that release a chemical called brain-derived neu- rotrophic factor, or BDNF, which rewires memory cir- cuits so they can function better. A stronger memory can help workers recall pro- ject details and deadlines more easily, even as the workday draws to a close. • Avoid the "quick fix." Relying on a beverage or snack to provide a quick mental boost may end up compromising your mental sharpness. Foods and bever- ages that are high in sugar may provide an immediate energy boost, but that spike is almost instantly followed by a crash that can adversely affect your mental sharp- ness. Stick to healthy snacks, such as fruits and vegeta- bles, and avoid late after- noon cups of coffee, which studies have shown make it harder to fall asleep at night, thereby compromising your energy levels the next day. • Take a walk outdoors. Spending some time out- doors during a lunch break, or even a quick, post-lunch stroll around the office grounds, can provide a break for the brain. That break can help the brain refocus, improving productivity as a result. One great way to get outdoors during busy work- days is to conduct meetings outside when the weather permits. This gives everyone a chance to recharge their brains in the great outdoors, and few people would prefer a dusty conference room to a nearby park or picnic area outdoors. Various strategies can help working professionals maintain their mental sharpness throughout the workday. Stay mentally fresh during the workday A new year means plenty of exciting opportunities on the horizon. For a number of people, this may be the year they relocate to a new home or apartment. The moving rate in the United States has remained steady since 2008, with roughly 12 percent of the population relocating each year according to reports from the U.S. Census Bureau. Movement to the suburbs continues to be high, and renters tend to move more frequently than others. Peo- ple who move cite a new job or a job transfer as one of the primary motivators to relocate. Acclimating to a new home and neighborhood after a move can be challeng- ing. Even after boxes have been unpacked and items put away, some people still feel unsettled. It could be because one of the most important parts of being in a new house is feeling at home. That involves meeting neigh- bors, having friends over for dinner and knowing all of the local haunts that help solidify a homeowner as a true member of his or her new neighborhood. It can take time to establish feeings of belonging, but here's a way to speed up settling in. Host your own welcome party Rather than waiting around for others to wel- come you to the neighbor- hood, take the bull by the horns and introduce your- self to your neighbors in a fun way. Host an open house party and invite your new neighbors. What better way to converse with others than with food, beverages and a festive atmosphere? Plus, your party may lead to recip- rocation from others. Get involved If you have children, you may have the advantage of meeting people at school functions or at the bus stop. Volunteer with the PTA/PTO or sign up to coach youth sports or serve as a scout leader. These opportu- nities will help expand the number of people you meet in your new community. Find people with similar interests Let your hobbies and other interests open up connections. Explore the opportunities in the area that cater to your interests. Find a local gaming shop and discuss the latest video game offerings, or check out a local band if indie music is your thing. Con- verse with others who are participating in the event or are in groups meeting in your area. Acclimating to a new neighborhood

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