The brain weighs just over a kilogram and is the central organisation headquarters taking in information from our food and environment through our senses. It translates our thoughts and feelings into electrical and biochemical signals to keep us safe and alter our behaviour.

Our diet plays an important role in stabilising all mental health conditions. Nutritional psychiatry reinforces the importance of sugar stability and a balance of healthy fats, e.g. omega 3, proteins and minerals, e.g. magnesium and Vit B for neuronal ( brain cells)communication and growth.

The brain is mostly fat and water, and thus a Mediterranean or paleo diet which is high in pesticide-free whole foods seems to have the most benefit for mental health.

A resurgence of ancient practices of intermittent fasting and keto diets has shown promise for treating brain fog and epilepsy, triggering BDNF, which is part of the repair pathway for the brain.

Neuroplasticity refers to the “plastic” nature of the brain to prune and mould depending on the input from the environment. The adage, “neurons that fire together, wire together", emphasises that the brain is constantly adapting for efficiency. Sometimes, one area will enhance functioning to compensate for a lack in another area.

Nootropics or cognitive enhancers have gained public attention due to their proven ability to increase cognitive performance. Increased creativity, mood, perseverance and memory are some results. There are pharmaceutical drugs, e.g. modafinil and Ritalin, which have been prescribed in certain cases, but I prefer to explore more natural therapies.

Caffeine is the most popular psychoactive substance. It stimulates the adenosine receptors.

L theanine is an important amino acid and adaptogen found in green tea. At high enough doses, it can create calm and alertness and induce alpha brain waves. There is exploration that this protein underpins one of the most important DNA codon rings in the body, according to the Gene Keys. We may see it involved in the translation of light energy.

Bacopa Monnieri is an Ayurvedic herb which boost's the brain's information processing system; it is a remedy for ADD. It contains compounds called bacosides, known for safeguarding the brain from oxidative stress and strengthening connections in the hippocampus, which assists learning and memory.

Rhodiola Rosea is an invaluable adaptogenic herb assisting the body in recovering from fatigue, burn out and stabilising mood. It is not advised in bipolar disorders.

These little organelles are our cell's powerhouses. There has been significant investment in the research into the importance of mitochondria for anti-ageing and longevity.

Originating from bacteria that were absorbed into cells millions of years ago, they are critical for cell survival and making ATP for energy. Mental diseases like depression, brain fog and degenerative diseases are dependent on healthy mitochondria as the brain requires adequate energy reserves. We need to focus on reducing toxicity, oxidative stress and improving oxygenation to protect these structures.

Plant medicines have been used in tribes all over the world in ceremony to access higher wisdom states. The medicine men would use these precious plants to commune with nature, enhance community and expand their consciousness. These hallucinogens, e.g. psilocybin (mushrooms), ayahuasca and LSD, all have potential in psychiatry as a treatment for depression. Micro-dosing protocols for mushrooms and LSD are in the experimental phase but show promise.

The legalisation of these substances is currently being reviewed, but it looks positive.

It is critical to access these substances from pure sources as the natural plants, e.g. psilocybin and ayahuasca, are known to have a "spirit".

The experience of the facilitator, the set and the setting are critical for a safe and effective journey.

This is not a process to be entered lightly as fragmentation and triggering of bipolar can occur. MDMA therapy for relationships and PTSD has been pioneered by an organisation called MAPS.

Many people are hosting circles to provide access to these plants. I am currently in a rigorous initiatory programme to become a facilitator. Only three people are chosen per year by my teacher Cathy Coyle, and it takes four years to develop the mastery to hold space.

Sleep is the most critical foundation for a healthy body and brain. Even a minimal reduction can reduce performance, immunity and mood. Sleep has become really challenging for many in the west as we become more addicted to screens and crave stimulation. Adrenal burnout and ageing lead to insomnia and reduced deep sleep. This can impact all aspects of our biology. Impaired sleep is always present in severe mental health states, e.g. bipolar, psychosis, depression and neurodegeneration.

lthough our body is paralysed during deep sleep, our brains remain alert. This is the time for detoxification and repair.

Many people become dependent on pharmaceutical hypnotics and sleeping tablets. Long term, these medicines have been shown to increase depression and dementia. It is important to institute strict sleep support structures and more natural remedies to induce rest.