Why The Brain-Based Healthy Mind Platter Should Be Your Happy Blueprint
- Oct 17, 2023
- 3 min read

In an era of 24/7 hustle, bullet journals, and never-ending to-do lists, we're in danger of glorifying busyness at the cost of holistic happiness and excellence.
Our minds, like our bodies, need a balanced diet of experiences to function optimally.
Developed by the Neuroleadership Institute, the Brain-Based Healthy Mind Platter is not just a tool; it’s a lifeline in our go-go-go culture. Let's dive into why incorporating these elements is a game-changer for you and why coaching with the brain in mind is not just smart but essential.
Read the full list, you might be pleasantly surprised, in fact, start at the bottom if you want. It's your choice, like with everything else in life.
Sleep Time
You can't be a maverick if you're sleep-deprived. When you sleep, your brain gets down to the business of consolidation—taking your day's experiences and filing them neatly in your memory. Think of it as your mental housekeeper. Shortchange your sleep, and you end up with a cluttered, inefficient brain.
Physical Time
Sweat is just another word for brain fuel. Aerobic activities flood your brain with endorphins and oxygen, making you sharper and more resilient. It's not about having a six-pack; it's about having a well-oiled cognitive engine.
Focus Time
Focus isn't just about ticking off tasks on your to-do list; it's about deepening the neural pathways that elevate your game. This is where challenges morph into opportunities, allowing for intense mental connections to be made.
Time In
In the rush to be everywhere, do everything, and please everyone, we often forget to check in with the person that matters the most—ourselves. Reflect on your thoughts, sensations, and emotions. This is your internal weather report, helping you manage your mental climate effectively.
Down Time
Sounds counterintuitive, right? Do nothing and recharge. Your brain needs these periods of aimlessness to reboot and emerge more focused and creative than before. It’s like hitting the refresh button on a webpage when it starts to lag.
Play Time
Adulthood often demonizes play, labeling it as frivolous. However, playful, creative experiences stimulate brain connections that can't be achieved any other way. Play is not the opposite of work; it’s the energetic cousin of creativity.
Connecting Time
Digital connections can’t replace the nuances of human interaction or the awe of nature. We're hardwired for face-to-face connection, for empathy, for being part of something greater than ourselves. It’s not just about social wellness; it’s about brain wellness. Spending time in nature is the greatest way of being present in the moment
Now, here's the kicker: Most of us probably ace the first four elements but neglect the last three. Trust me, Down Time, Play Time, and Connecting Time are not just fillers; they're as crucial as the rest. These are my favorites and should be yours too if you're serious about all-around mental prowess.
Why Brain-Based Coaching?
Coaching with the brain in mind is like having a world-class architect for your life. It takes into account the very essence of what makes us tick. Every session is a step toward integrating all these elements into your daily life, moving you closer to becoming the entrepreneur, leader, or visionary you aspire to be. Remember, success is a marathon, and vision-based coaching is your ultimate training ground.
A balanced mind platter isn’t a luxury; it’s a necessity. It’s time we replace the culture of hustle and overworking as a badge of honor, with a culture of holistic excellence.
Want to make this transformation sustainable? Don't just chew on this food for thought; savor it and digest it through action. Your mind, in all its complexity, deserves nothing less.
So, who’s ready to reimagine success and well-being with a balanced mental diet? Let's connect and change the world one mind at a time. Because when it comes to coaching, this is the real deal—no myths, just vision-based transformations.
— CD Kotze, Founder of 34 Coaching Changing Lives, One Mind Platter at a Time