The most difficult aspect of chemo brain, at least for me, was that I seemed to allow my entire day to drift by without realizing it-- a symptom of excessive "slow brain waves."  I believe this is the "mental fog" so many chemotherapy and cancer survivors complain about.  It's definitely troubling to wonder where your entire day "went." 

I have measured the brain waves of hundreds of people, including adults and children with diagnoses of ADHD, difficulty "getting going" in the morning, and difficulties concentrating.  The vast majority have a higher ratio of the slow waves to the fast waves, particularly in the front (the frontal and pre-frontal areas, to be technical) of the brain. 

What to do:  I have a program outlined on my chemo brain blog, which I used to reduce most of the symptoms.  (My eBook has more detail, if you want more specific information.)

A great lesson I learned both personally and professionally is the importance of effective routines. I can't emphasize strongly enough how much better you feel when you have a process beginning in the morning that sets you off on the right foot.   If you are still recovering at home, double the emphasis on what I just said.

Here's what I do:  

1) Start the day in bread with gratitude, and delight at being able to enjoy another day on this earth.  I notice how beautiful my room is and I listen for the comforting sounds of birds, water running, or even the air conditioner! I do some quick "mindfulness meditation."

2) Head downstairs and take my "empty stomach" vitamins and bring in the newspaper while waiting for the hot water to boil.  

3) Make an energy tea with Yerba Mate and one of my "Energy Powder Shots" with just a little caffeine plus RNA and a few other healthy energy ingredients. This really helps to wake up my brain.  I sip it as I eat an energy bar.

4) I quickly check news headlines and write my blog and/or check email.  I eat breakfast (high protein) while doing this.  I jot a few notes or add to my "to do" list.

 5) Shower, dress, and head out the door.

This process takes about an hour and a half for me on a good day.  If it takes longer, I give myself feedback about what I have to tweak the next day. 

If I am pulling out of the driveway close to my projected time, I feel that I can handle anything that arises for the rest of the day.  It's a good stress-reducer.

Let me know what you've learned about your routine, and if it's helped you.

Have a wonderful day.!