More exciting studies are being released about brain plasticity every month. When memory really becomes a concern, tried and true mental calisthenics that kick the brain back in shape the key.
Dr. Gary small, the medical director of UCLA Memory and Aging Research Center states it this way, “When people combine memory-improving techniques with healthy lifestyle changes, they can see dramatic results in their memory function.”
And just what are these lifestyle changes you may wonder? Here are several:
Imprint the information – often what we call forgetfulness is actually the result of distraction, which prevents salient details from making a lasting impression on our brains. Focusing without multi-tasking is the key.
Sleep deeply – as fatigue increases memory decreases. One aauthority says if you need an alarm to wake you up, you may well be sleep deprived.
Eat brain food – Spices and foods hailed for their anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties will feed our brain such as oily fish (salmon, sardines, herring); fruits and veggies; extra virgin olive oil; and turmeric. Avoid saturated fats like full fat dairy products and red meat, trans-fats and partially hydrogenated oils, refined carbs and sugars.
Movement is key – Aerobic heart pumping is the best such as biking, swimming, and fast paced walking three to six times per week.
Never stop learning—an open mind and the motivation to learn new things is a winning combo. One of the most effective ways to do this is learning a foreign language.
Defrag and decompose—take time out of your hectic schedule to do some calming activities that you enjoy such as yoga, tai chai, reading, deep breathing, meditation, prayer, listening to music.
Open your focus—When you widen the lens to include the space around you, the brain engages more cells at a slower speed which helps you maximize your attention and retention.
It’s up to you to treat your brain as a muscle and implement these exciting procedures!
