It’s never too early, or too late, to start taking care of your brain. Just like your body, your brain needs regular activity, rest, and care to stay strong. By building a few simple habits into your daily routine, you can boost your brainpower today and help protect against cognitive decline in the future. Try one or more of the tips below.
Take care of your total health and well-being. Good brain health starts with good overall health. The same things you already do to take care of your physical health will also benefit your mental and brain health. Eating healthy, exercising regularly, getting sufficient sleep, managing any chronic conditions, and staying on top of preventive health will all positively impact your brain and memory as well.
Stay connected. Meaningful connection is more than a nice-to-have – it’s brain fuel. Socializing stimulates mental activity and helps reduce feelings of isolation, which are linked to cognitive decline. Consider volunteering in the community, going for a walk with a friend, or setting up a phone or video chat with a loved one.
Learn something new. Challenging your brain with fresh knowledge strengthens your mental muscles. Look for classes in your community or teach yourself to expand your brain. Whether it is learning a new language, brushing up on a musical instrument you played previously, or working on a project around your house, expanding your knowledge can do wonders for your brain health.
Teach someone else. Sharing your skills isn’t just generous, it’s also a great mental workout. Explaining how to do something reinforces your knowledge and keeps your brain engaged. Whether it’s mentoring a colleague or showing a grandchild how to cook, teaching is learning, too.
Challenge yourself. Keep your brain on its toes with activities that make you think. Tackle a tough jigsaw or crossword puzzle. Try a new-to-you word game. Read a book about a complex subject. Working out your brain each day with new challenges can strengthen your mind and keep you sharp.
Cut back on “passive” screen time. While there is nothing wrong with catching a movie or watching a favorite show each evening, try to limit how much time you sit on the couch mindlessly watching television. Balance it out with screen-free hobbies or activities. The more time you keep your brain active, the healthier it will be.
Even just a few minutes a day of intentional brain activity can have a big impact. Try one or two of these tips this week and build from there. Your brain will thank you today and for years to come.
