6 Ways to Get Your Brain Back in Shape

It can be frustrating to feel that you don’t have that razor-sharp wit you once dazzled everyone

16:42 10 February 2021

with or the same ability to think quickly on your feet. Our lifestyle and age can impact our brain’s cognitive functions and result in cognitive decline. However, we have full control over these impacts. You don’t have to kiss your memory goodbye; in fact, there are many easy steps you can take to improve your brain health. Read on to learn 6 ways you can whip your brain back into shape. 

 

1. Get Sufficient Sleep

 

We already know that insufficient sleep negatively impacts our health by weakening our immunity, but what many people don’t know is that it also affects our brain activity during the day. It impairs many brain functions, which is why our memory suffers from the lack of quality sleep, and we struggle with decision-making. If you find yourself struggling to concentrate or becoming more forgetful, a good night’s slumber can significantly improve your brain functions. 

 

1. Stay Mentally Stimulated

 

If you want to keep your mind sharp, keep learning. You can stay mentally stimulated by solving crosswords, word search puzzles, Sudoku, etc. Furthermore, you must clear your mind of worries and stress that drain your mental energy. Instead, focus your brainpower on more important things like learning a new skill. Since we first came into this world, the way we have always learned is through repetition. Going over the same information over and over again or continuously working on developing certain skills can help our brain absorb information. However, you don’t want to overwork your mind and drain your energy by putting too much pressure on yourself. Give yourself a break every once in a while to avoid overwhelming yourself by trying to learn too much too fast as this will only discourage your efforts. 

 

If you are struggling to engage in mentally stimulating activities due to a decrease in your learning capacity, there are options that you can consider to aid you in the process. You can boost cognitive performance with doctor-recommended supplements to get your brain back in shape. This can also help with anxiety and brain cell protection as our brain cells become exhausted due to stress and other factors as we age. Invariably, always consult medical professionals and review any product before trying it. 

 

1. Maintain Social Connections 

 

When we are alone or isolated, we don’t exercise our brain as much as we would during social interaction. By continuing to build social connections and participating in social activities, you are exercising your brain and improving your cognitive functions. Just as you must engage in physical activity to maintain your agility, you need to socialize to stimulate your brain. Moreover, having fun and sharing a good laugh with those you care about can improve your memory because your brain is not straining itself to remain sharp.

 

1. Limit Alcohol Intake 

 

Studies show that heavy drinkers are more likely to suffer from dementia. By limiting your alcohol intake, you can salvage your memory, improving your brain health, and reduce your risk of cognitive decline. In the same vein, quitting smoking can also help rewire your brain as your brain begins to repair itself from the cycle of addiction. 

 

1. Eat a Nutritious Diet

 

Studies show that eating a balanced diet that is full of nutrients, such as omega-3 fatty acids and those found in leafy green vegetables, as well as whole grains, can help you maintain your brain’s health. Avoid diets rich in saturated fats. Instead, opt for food and drinks that boost brainpower and memory, such as coffee, broccoli, dark chocolate, nuts, and blueberries. Turmeric, pumpkin seeds, and fatty fish are among the best foods that promote brain health. 

 

1. Engage in Physical Activity

 

Physical activity has numerous benefits for both your brain and your body. The cognitive benefits include improved blood flow to your brain and enhanced memory. Since exercise stimulates the production of certain chemicals in the brain, it boosts cognition. As a result, you’ll find that your ability to learn and think is enhanced, and you’ll also notice a significant improvement in your mood. The effects of exercise on the brain help protect one’s memory and thinking capacity against age-induced decline. 

 

More often than not, older people tend to struggle with memory loss due to their own fear of losing their sharp wits. The fact of the matter is that believing that you are capable of boosting your brainpower and using it at full capacity is what ensures that your brain remains healthy. There is no age limit to getting your brain back in shape. With some simple lifestyle changes, you will see that you can exercise your brain like you would any other muscle.