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STEP 15 – CONCENTRATION AND MEMORY

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When it takes all your energy just to get out of bed in the morning, it’s unlikely that you are going to be able to read and digest the daily newspaper.

Issues with CONCENTRATION AND MEMORY are common. We all have moments when we walk into a room and forget what we went there for; or we leave our keys in the door and spend 20 minutes looking for them. But an inability to remember details every single day can be a very debilitating symptom for sufferers.

A persistent low mood can result in problems affecting the cognitive functioning of the brain. Being tired, overwhelmed, and unmotivated—these are just three symptoms that can negatively affect concentration.

Specific issues with attention and memory include being unable to focus on a task—such as reading a book, for example, or watching a movie— for more than a few minutes. The processing speed of the brain can become impaired, so it may be difficult to focus on and hold an in-depth conversation.

This slowed thinking or “brain fog” can cause frequent periods of forgetfulness, and those affected can find it very difficult to concentrate on what used to be routine daily tasks and responsibilities. It can be very frustrating to those around the sufferer, too, which means that this situation can have a significant impact on relationships.

To the person who has severe low mood, it may feel that it takes more effort just to think. They often report that it feels like they are “wading through treacle” as they struggle to remember what they were going to do or where they placed something.

Try these tips if you, or someone you know, has trouble concentrating on tasks, their job, or appointments:

• Break big tasks down into their smaller parts: small accomplishments eventually add up to big accomplishments, so tackle the little tasks that are more manageable and be proud of the progress you can make along the way. Boost your confidence by rewarding yourself at the end.

• Make lists: both shorter To Do lists as well as lists for the long term can help keep you on track of tasks and responsibilities. Stick lists on the fridge, in a diary, or wherever you are likely to see them.

• Set reminders: when you have trouble remembering appointments or places you need to be, or regular tasks you need to work on, setting reminders can be a helpful way to reduce worry about trying to remember things. Write in a diary or set an alarm on your phone.

• Be kind to yourself: remember to be gentle with yourself or your loved one. When dealing with someone else, give the benefit of the doubt that they are doing the best they can right now.

Essential Oils are also a useful tool to help support memory and concentration, especially when sustained focus is needed. These include:

• IN TUNE Focus Blend

• Frankincense

• Rosemary

• Lemon

• Peppermint

• Sandalwood

• Spearmint

• MOTIVATE Encouraging Blend

IN TUNE FOCUS BLEND has a combination of Essential Oils that can help enhance and sustain a sense of focus, especially when you’re trying to concentrate on a task, or to study, and finding it difficult to pay attention for long periods. Sandalwood, Frankincense, and Lime promote a sense of clarity, while the benefits of Patchouli, Ylang Ylang, and Roman Chamomile are calming and soothing.

PRACTICAL USES

• Apply to the temples and back of neck when doing tasks that require concentration.

• Apply to wrists or back of hands and inhale deeply to promote a sense of clarity.

• Use IN TUNE FOCUS BLEND at work to stay on task or when feeling tired mid-afternoon.

• Dispense IN TUNE FOCUS BLEND on a clay pendant and place on a desk or in other key areas in a classroom.

DIRECTIONS FOR USE

TOPICAL USE: Apply one to two drops to desired area. Dilute with Fractionated Coconut Oil to minimize any skin sensitivity.

CAUTIONS

Possible skin sensitivity. Keep out of reach of children. If pregnant or under a doctor’s care, consult your physician. Keep out of eyes, inner ears, and sensitive areas. Dilute with Fractionated Coconut Oil to minimize any skin sensitivity. Avoid sunlight or UV rays for up to 12 hours after applying product.

LASER FOCUS CONCENTRATION RECIPE

• 3 drops Lemon Essential Oil

• 2 drops Frankincense Essential Oil

• 1 drop Rosemary Essential Oil

• 2 drops Copaiba Essential Oil

Diffuse while studying or concentrating on a task to maintain focus and concentration.

QUESTION – DO YOU PREFER TO TACKLE TASKS FROM MEMORY, OR USE A TO DO LIST?