How to Increase Your Attention Span

There are many reasons why children and adults struggle with attention. Among the most common are weak cognitive functioning related to focusing, organizing, and planning. Other common reasons are neurochemical variations in the brain (which can be managed through medications) and also mental health concerns such as anxiety.

Eaton Arrowsmith focuses in on improving weak cognitive functions, which is one of the primary causes of inconsistent attention span. In addition to this type of cognitive intervention, another effective way to improve focus, ease anxiety, and improve memory is to engage in aerobic exercise.

Exercise increases the availability of dopamine and a protein called BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor) in the brain. These changes help with learning, memory, stress, anxiety, aid impulse control, planning, organization, and memory - and the best part is that you don’t need a prescription for any of it! All you need to do is get your heart rate up so that you start to sweat and your muscles feel tired.

The next time you feel distracted and unable to focus at home or at work, try one of these quick and easy exercises you can do anywhere:

Take a brisk walk or jog around the block. If the weather is bad, try climbing the stairs or even running in place.

Find a corner where you can do a few sets of frog jumps. With legs about shoulder width apart, squat down and touch your hands to the floor. Then jump up and raise your hands above your head, returning to the original position upon landing.

Use a clean area of the floor or even lean against a wall to do a few sets of mountain-climbers. While supporting your weight with your hands, quickly alternate bringing one knee to your chest, then the other.

These mini workout breaks will not only break up the workday and give your mind a respite, but they will also give your brain a natural rush of the chemicals it needs to focus properly. As a bonus: you’ll save money and calories compared to a coffee run!