Serious decline in mental function is not as inevitable as grey hairs and wrinkles. The Week brings you some ways you can train your brain and keep it sharp as you age.
Be physically active
Research and studies have shown that regular aerobic exercise may be the single most important thing you can do for the long-term health of your brain. While the heart and lungs respond loudly to a sprint on the treadmill, the brain is quietly getting fitter with each step, too. For mental fitness, aim for at least 30 minutes of physical activity every other day. Exercise also helps to relieve tension which can improve your thought patterns. The less stressed you are, the sharper your mind will become. So go for a walk around your neighborhood, play with your dog or take a swim. Not only will you feel energetic but your mind will also benefit in the long run.
Tease your brain
Lack of mentally stimulating activities is a strong predictor of cognitive decline. Crossword puzzles, sudokus, Kumon and other tickler can actually keep your brain in shape. The more you’ve tried to learn, the better you’ll be mentally even as you age. The key may be tackling something new; the challenge of the unknown is likely to be more beneficial than putting together the same jigsaw puzzle over and over again. Stray from your comfort zone, such as, if you usually read non-fiction, read fiction. If you usually do crossword puzzles, try a video game. Try solving the Rubik’s Cube or play Chinese checkers with your friends.
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Write it down
Writing poetry can be relaxing plus it’s a great way to express yourself. If poetry isn’t your forte, try keeping a daily journal where you can jot things down as they come to mind. Writing things down clears you mind and gives you a better perspective. It’ll give you a chance to observe your thought patterns and then regulate your emotions accordingly. Writing requires creativity, and when you begin to put words and sentences onto the page, you trigger memories associated with the words that you write and the references that you make. Furthermore, this process can sometimes set off a domino effect that leads to a chain of other memories, words and sensations and hence boost your brain power.
Try something new
Have you always wanted to learn a foreign language? Take time to master a few words of Spanish or French each day. Or better yet, get enrolled in a language class. Interested in ethnic cooking? Sign up for a course. Also, if you’re a lefty, try using your right hand to brush your teeth or stir food while cooking. If you’re a righty, use your left hand to wipe down a counter or jot down quick notes. You can also try walking backwards; it’s known to help stimulate the brain and, according to some evidence, can actually help it grow in size. Lack of learning causes the brain’s pathways to start disconnecting; so take 15 minutes out of each day to learn something new.
Stay updated
Keep up with current events. Whether your interest is politics, world news, or your even gossip, staying current with the news stimulates your mind. Also, people who maintain strong connections with friends and family not only live up to 20 percent longer, but are also likelier to retain their memory, abstract thinking and language skills. Make an effort to surround yourself with people who inspire you to be creative and challenge your intellect. Try forming a book club, or take stimulating group trips to museums, lectures and poetry readings – there’s always something happening these days. Be a part of it.
Focus on your hobbies
Hobbies are brain-builders besides being pleasurable. They jump-start chemical changes in the brain that trigger the imagination. Maybe you enjoyed cooking years ago, or origami was your thing, but you haven’t had time for hobbies for quite some time. Being driven to an old hobby can help keep your mind sharp. Plus, it’s something you used to do and likely were good at, so it can make you feel good, too. Start a new hobby or take up an old, forgotten one to get your creative juices flowing. You can pick up sewing if you have the knack for it, or take up gardening. Even drawing and doodling are thought to have a positive effect in boosting your brain power.
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