8 Techniques for Students to Reset Their Brain During Stressful Times

Academic Stress Can Trigger Mental Fog

Mental fog can derail your day, but relief is simpler than you think. These eight practical strategies offer quick, powerful ways to clear your mind, boost energy, and reset your cognitive function—transforming mental cloudiness into crystal-clear focus in just minutes.

Hydrate

Dehydration drains mental energy. Drinking water or electrolyte beverages restores body balance, improving cognitive function and providing a quick mental refresh when you're feeling sluggish or unfocused.

Take a Short Walk

A brief 10-15 minute walk stimulates blood flow, releases endorphins, and clears mental cobwebs. Physical movement can instantly boost mood, sharpen mental clarity, and break through brain fog.

Practice Deep Breathing or Meditation

Structured breathing techniques reset your mind instantly. Inhaling, holding, and exhaling help activate your parasympathetic system, reducing stress and creating mental space for clearer, calmer thinking.

Get Some Sunlight

Natural light regulates your body's rhythm and boosts serotonin. Just 15-30 minutes of sunlight can significantly improve mood and mental clarity and help dispel the heavy feeling of brain fog.

Eat a Healthy Snack

Balanced snacks with protein, healthy fats, and fiber stabilise blood sugar and provide sustained energy. Nuts, seeds, or fruit can quickly combat mental fatigue and support cognitive performance.

Take a Break and Rest

Pushing through mental exhaustion backfires. A short 15-20 minute power nap or mental disengagement can prevent burnout, restore cognitive abilities, and reset your mental state.

Organize or Declutter Your Space

Physical clutter creates mental chaos. Tidying your workspace provides control, reduces stress, and helps regain focus. A clean environment supports clearer thinking and mental calm.

10