🌟[TT] timing, rest 🧠

As I prepare for this week’s newsletter I am on my little self-curated writing retreat…

Writing retreat? Yes!

I’m working on my next book about the BRA(i)NS Method for brain health and wellbeing 😊

Which leads me to this week’s topic – how to optimise our brains for creativity and productivity through timing!

I’ve noticed something interesting: my best work happens in specific windows, not when I force it. Turns out, there’s solid science behind this.*

📍3 Timing Tips For Peak Brain Performance

🌟1️⃣ Timing: Your Chronotype Window

Chronotypes refer to your brain’s natural preference for when you feel most alert and focused – e.g. a “morning lark” vs “evening owl” (I am a morning lark…)

Track your energy and focus levels for one week.

Note when you feel most alert, creative, and capable of complex thinking.

This is your golden hour for important cognitive work.

🌟2️⃣ Tasks: Match to Brain States

If possible, time-block different types of tasks.

Schedule your most demanding work (creative or analytical) during your chronotype peak hours.

Save routine tasks (emails, admin, scheduling) for your natural energy dips.

🌟3️⃣ Rest: Strategic Breaks

Time rest breaks after focused blocks of work, e.g. 5-20min breaks after focused blocks of 30-90 min.

How about a movement break? A brief walk or change of scene can reset neural circuits for the next productive block.

📍Question for you today

Which of these 3 tips is most helpful for your creativity or productivity this week?

Wishing you perfectly timed work and rest breaks,
Dr Sui Wong

References:

Venkat et al. (2021) https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34556966/

Registered Address: 95 High Street HA8 7DB, United Kingdom. www.drsuiwongmd.com

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📌 FAQS

Q: What is a chronotype?
A chronotype is your body’s natural preference for when you feel most alert, energetic, and productive — e.g., morning lark or night owl.

Q: How long should a productive work block be?
Most people benefit from focused blocks of 30–90 minutes, followed by a short 5–20 minute rest.

Q: Why are breaks important for the brain?
Strategic breaks reset neural circuits, reduce mental fatigue, and improve creativity and problem-solving.

📌 Summary

Our brains work best when we align tasks with natural rhythms. By discovering your chronotype, matching tasks to brain states, and taking strategic rest breaks, you can unlock peak creativity and productivity. Instead of forcing output, work with your brain’s timing to achieve more with less strain.