We all know that as we age our brains and bodies begin to slow a bit. (Read how, here.) But there are things we can do to maintain brain health and cognitive function.
5 Simple Tricks to Sharpen Your Brain as You Age
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A Body in Motion…
Neurological research has determined that movement throughout the lifespan is incredibly important for both body and mind. In fact, it turns out that the benefit to the brain is even greater.
New to exercise? There are many great ways to get started. Park your car further away from the store. Pace as you talk on the phone. Take the stairs. Even just making sure to get up and walk around for a couple minutes once every hour improves health.
If you already are a regular mover and shaker, then work in some variety to keep your brain agile.
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Be an Explorer
Challenge yourself regularly. Research has repeatedly shown that those who continue to learn across the lifespan do better longer.
Taking classes, reading books, finding new routes home, and puzzles, crossword and Sudoku, all contribute to mental fitness.
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R & R
Getting quality rest (and relaxation), which includes both sleep and other recovery, fends off stress. Stress tends to be a silent killer, as well as something that interferes with our ability to learn, relax and grow.
If getting the full 7-8 hours of sleep a night isn’t easy, it might be time to review sleep hygiene recommendations. (See more about that from the Sleep Foundation.) Incorporating time each day just to reflect and meditate for 5 minutes also helps with unwinding.
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Feast or Famine (or What’s in Your Food?)
Our bodies are more sensitive than we realize, and our brain even more so. And the negatives of additives in food tend to add up over time. Keeping sugar to a minimum and paying attention to hydration and portions are important.
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Reach Out and Touch Someone
Loneliness and isolation tend to leave lasting scars and slow us down. Relationships maintain our cognitive abilities. There are many ways to bring people into your life. Even short chats with people in the grocery line have a positive impact, research shows.
Is your brain feeling more alert already? Which of these tactics are you already using? Which can you incorporate right way? Follow these 5 simple tricks and you’ll enjoy a sharper you! And, if you need help to create a plan and get started, contact Coach Karla today.