Written by: Trish Whetstone, Executive Contributor
Executive Contributors at Brainz Magazine are handpicked and invited to contribute because of their knowledge and valuable insight within their area of expertise.
Looking to get more done in less time? Wanting to work smarter, not harder? There’s one block that, when addressed, just might help you more than any fancy journal, app, or scheduling system.
This block is inside of you, and so is the answer. It’s your gut.
You’ve likely heard some of the buzz around the gut lately. Sure, some of it is just “buzz”, but there’s a reason why this organ is getting so much press. Your gut contains a robust collection of microbes like bacteria, as well as important neurochemicals responsible for mood, memory, and learning.
An unhealthy gut may be why you’re lacking mental clarity, and caffeinating deep into the afternoon. Nourishing your gut gets at the root of brain fog, fatigue, and focus issues, resulting in a naturally more productive you.
Still not sure? Here are 3 research-backed facts about how helping your gut is the productivity hack you never thought you needed.
About 70-80% of the immune response is housed within the gut. A healthier gut = less sick time. When you focus on your gut health, your whole health improves.
Many hormones are created in the gut, including 95% of the body’s serotonin, which largely affects mood, and melatonin, responsible for restful sleep. Let’s be real, when you’re sluggish and moody, being productive can feel like moving a ton of bricks.
Your gut can also motivate your future actions. About 50% of dopamine is made in the gut, which affects our ability to learn, formulate plans, and create habits.
Interested to learn that the gut is a key to productivity? Here are 3 ways to nourish your gut today:
1. Eat a plant.
Your gut loves the phytochemicals found in colorful fruits, vegetables, beans, legumes, and grains. Bonus points if you try a new food! Your gut also enjoys variety.
2. Move your body.
Regular movement also keeps things “regular”, or moving along within the gastrointestinal tract. Breaking a sweat through any form of exercise also combats stress, which can take a toll on your gut.
3. Take 3 deep breaths.
This is the always free, always accessible tool for a happy gut that you can practice anywhere, anytime. Imagine you’re breathing in a wisp of air in your favorite color, and it's filling up your belly (right around the gut). This can calm your gut, and send oxygen to your brain for a clearer mind. Double productivity win!
Follow Trish on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and visit her website for more ways to finally feel good in your gut. Read more from Trish!
Trish Whetstone, Executive Contributor Brainz Magazine
Trish Whetstone is The Feel Good Gut Coach, a holistic health specialist, stress expert, and intuitive eating advocate. Trish received degrees in Psychology & Public Health from The State University of New York at Fredonia and worked within the non-profit world as an Educator, Coordinator & Director. After waking up too many times in her early twenties feeling like she "got hit by a bus", Trish said enough was enough. She healed her gut after years of struggling with IBS (irritable bowel syndrome) and became a Certified Health, Life, and Nutrition Coach to help others do the same. Through her personal coaching business, Health Coaching by Trish, she helps busy professionals with nutrition, stress management, and lifestyle change, so they can feel good in their gut!
