Train Your Brain
It happens to us all.…You forget where you put your car keys, you can’t remember how to spell a certain word, or draw a blank on someones name. We all have memory lapses at one time or another, especially as we age. Over time, our brain cells become less efficient and we gradually lose some cells and activity.
I recently read, “Cross train your brain,” an article found in the June 2007 issue of Body + Soul magazine, which included some interesting information on how to keep your mind active and sharp that I wanted to share.
Following are some choices to make to help cross train your brain to improve memory and funtionality:
- Imprint the information: Focus on the task at hand. Make sure you are listening attentively.
- Hit the hay: Getting enough sleep plays a huge role in memory function. Make sure you are getting an adequate amount. If you are not, try going to bed a half hour earlier each evening.
- Eat a brain-healthy diet: Make sure you are eating healthy and getting enough fruits, vegetables, and foods that contain anti-inflammatory properties (oily fish, tumeric, extra virgin olive oil, etc.). Make sure you are also avoiding foods that have a lot of refined sugar a nd hydrogenated oils.
- Get moving: Exercise is both good for the body and the mind.
- Learn for the sake of it: According to Dr. Weil, “The more you learn, the more connections you are creating in your brain.” Try learning a foreign language, piano, salsa dance, or anything new.
- Take time to decompress: Stress hormones tend to shrink memory centers in the brain. Try doing things that calm the mind such as yoga, tai chi, yard work, etc.
- Widen the lens: Try to unclutter the mind and focus on just what is around you. Close your eyes to slow down your brain.
Thanks for reading!
Barb
Posted in Uncategorized on October 30th, 2007 by Barb | |
