Thriving Minds: Balancing Brain Activity with Physical Fatigue

By Colin Butler, MS, CSCS, ACSM-GEI, EIM and CF Warrior

Here are some low-pressure ways to keep your brain active, whether you’re feeling alert or running on fumes.

Fatigue is real with CF, and sometimes, even thinking can feel like too much. That’s why it helps to be kind to yourself and find that sweet spot between engaged and overwhelmed. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

Listen to your body. If something feels like too much, it probably is, and that’s okay.
Go for short bursts. Even 10–15 minutes of brain stimulation can lift your mood.
Stay flexible. Some days you’ll feel focused, other days foggy. It’s all part of the process.
Mix things up. Rotating activities can help keep things interesting without draining you.
Keep a “low-energy” list. Have a go-to list of light mental activities for tough days.

Remember: this isn’t about achievement. It’s about staying intellectually and emotionally connected, even when you’re lying in bed.

Technology can be your best friend when you’re dealing with long stretches of downtime. With just a phone or tablet, you have access to books, videos, classes, creative tools, and entire communities.

If you’re into gaming, art, books, or science, platforms like Reddit or Discord can help you connect with people who share those interests. Check in with yourself once in a while, if you start to feel drained or overwhelmed, it’s okay to step back and take a break.

On the really tough days, when your body is saying nope, you can still stay mentally connected in small, gentle ways. Try:

Listening to calming music or nature sounds
Watching a comfort show with subtitles
Browsing through an online museum or art gallery
Replaying a favorite audiobook or documentary
Doing a breathing or meditation exercise with an app
Making a digital collage or mood board (try Canva, it’s fun and easy)

Even these tiny things can help you feel a little more present and a little more like yourself.