Ten easy tips to maintain your brain
January 4, 2012
A brain that’s fit and well-fuelled is vital for overall health, happiness and quality of life. Studies continue to suggest that investing in your brain trust not only helps you age better, but also slows down mental decline that often comes with age. Mounting evidence also confirms that a combination of mental fitness, strong personal and social connections, regular exercise and a heart-healthy diet provides added protection against Alzheimer’s disease. Try some or all of these activities.
1. Volunteer:
Charities, soup kitchens, community groups or even your local theatre can always use extra hands and brains. Besides, feeling good about yourself will help you tackle any or all of these tips.
2. Help out:
Offer to assist a friend or neighbour who may have difficulty getting out in the winter by running errands for them or keeping their walkway clear of snow.
3. Stay young:
Take your kids, or your friends’ kids, skating or to the museum. If you’re a grandparent, invite your grandchildren and their friends to a matinee, or ask them to help you with a specific chore. Being in the company of children is always energizing and awe-inspiring.
4. Stay active:
You don’t need to join a gym to shed off those holiday pounds. Start a walking club with neighbours or friends, take up dance lessons with friends, or join a curling club. Check your local college, university or high school for continuing education courses starting in the winter. It’s never too late to learn a new skill or freshen up an old one. You’ll also meet new people and be exposed to new ideas.
5. Network at work:
A stimulating work environment promotes life-long mental performance. Talk to a new colleague every week, volunteer for a company event, or be the first to start a social committee.
6. Foster friendships:
Reconnect with old friends and plan an activity you enjoy together. If they live far away, get on the phone or the computer. Learning new social media tools like Facebook will keep your brain active and socially connected at the same time.
7. Change your reading habits:
If you always read non-fiction, pick up a fiction this year, or vice-versa. Or try reading your computer manual.
8. Exercise your brain:
Give your problem-solving skills a workout with one of today’s many brain games. Better yet, challenge a friend to a game.
9. Break your rut:
Use your other hand to brush your hair or do the dishes. Check out a neighbourhood you’ve never been to before. Doing things differently wakes up those brain cells that are sleepy or less used.
10. Sleep on it:
Stronger memory and increased attention spans are the benefits of a good night’s rest. Six or more hours of sleep will help replenish the neurotransmitters that are responsible for learning and problem solving.Source: Alzheimer Society of Ontario
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