Let’s be honest: not everyone finds peace sitting cross-legged in silence, trying to empty their mind like a spiritual vacuum cleaner. If traditional meditation isn’t your thing (or just isn’t cutting it today), there are plenty of non-zen ways to hit the mental refresh button.
Here are 7 unexpectedly fun and science-backed ways to reset your mind—and nope, not one of them requires chanting "om."
1. Chew Gum Like You're Plotting Something
Chewing gum has been shown to improve focus, reduce stress, and even enhance memory. It's like giving your brain a rhythmic beat to bop to. Bonus points if you blow a bubble.
🧠 Why it works: Rhythmic movement increases blood flow to the brain and may stimulate areas linked to attention and focus.
2. Try the “Upside Down” Trick
Literally hang your head off the edge of your bed or do a headstand against a wall. Gravity gets your blood flowing in new ways—and the shift in perspective can jolt your mind out of a mental rut.
🤸 Brain Hack: Inversions send more oxygen to your brain and may increase alertness (not to mention give you a new way to scroll TikTok).
3. Do a "Distraction Clean"
Set a 10-minute timer and tackle the nearest mess—junk drawer, laundry pile, your inbox. Cleaning small areas can give you a quick sense of control and calm.
🧽 Tip: Focus on speed, not perfection. You’re not scrubbing for guests—you’re decluttering your mind.
4. Switch Hands
Brush your teeth, eat dinner, or draw a cat with your non-dominant hand. It forces your brain to engage in a new way, waking up underused neural pathways.
🎨 Brainy Bonus: Novelty keeps your brain flexible and adaptable, like mental yoga.
5. Name That Tune (Backwards)
Play your favorite song and try to sing it backward (or just reverse it and guess it). It’s hilariously difficult and activates parts of your brain you didn’t know existed.
🎧 Why it helps: Playing with pattern recognition and memory builds cognitive flexibility—plus, laughter is an instant mood reset.
6. Step Outside... Barefoot
Touching grass isn’t just a meme. Walking barefoot on natural surfaces (a.k.a. “earthing”) may lower stress levels and reduce inflammation.
🌿 Nature Nudge: Our brains evolved outdoors. Even 5–10 minutes outside can calm your nervous system.
7. BONUS TIP: Talk to Yourself (In the Third Person)
Say your name and give yourself advice. “Jessica, you’ve got this!” It’s weird—but surprisingly effective.
🗣️ Why it works: Third-person self-talk gives you emotional distance, helping you regulate thoughts and feelings like a bossy life coach.
The Bottom Line:
Resetting your mind doesn't have to mean stillness or silence. Sometimes, it means being a little goofy, a little curious, and a little brave.
So go ahead—chew that gum, flip your world upside down, or serenade yourself backwards. Your brain deserves a break, and you deserve a refresh that actually feels fun.
