How many of you spare some minutes to think about your brain? The one organ that coordinates our body functions? For long, it had been believed that we are stuck with the brain we have got. However, with new researches, it has been proven that we can actually improve the performance of our brain, which not only enhances our reasoning and problem solving skills but also keeps away ailments such as dementia and Alzheimer’s. The tips here are free and effective, which could be employed by anyone. These are 10 of the best tips to boost your brain function.
10. Social Connections
Man is a social animal and requires healthy social relations to survive. Being socially active is good for the brain. Those with many friends are less likely to develop dementia or depression than those who lead lonely lives. While online networking is good, it doesn’t match socially connecting in the real world, where all our senses are used. Hang out with your friends or take a walk, often with your significant other.
9. Be Ambidextrous
Being ambidextrous has its perks. Have you ever thought of brushing your teeth with the other hand than the one you normally use? What about writing? Of course you will face some difficulty at first. But by doing these things, you are breaking your routine and teaching the brain to do things differently. There is nothing else your brain loves, than doing new things. It stimulates the brain and pushes it to form new connections, improve its efficiency.
8. Listen to Music
Ever heard of the Mozart Effect? Essentially it says that listening to classical music can improve brain power. Whether it is true or not, music certainly has some magical powers. Researchers have shown that certain songs can help associating memories. Also it helps with cognitive functioning and increased concentration. In various studies, scientists found out that those who regularly listened to classical music performed better in solving puzzles and IQ tests. So, tune into some Mozart, Beethoven or Bach while reading or working out.
7. Meditation
Brain hates stress. One of the best ways to keep your head free from worrying thoughts is meditation. There are different types of meditations and of them, the easiest is to close your eyes and give your attention to breathing. Doing this meditation ten minutes to half an hour daily, keeps your mind clear and receptive. It reduces the production of anxiety hormones, cortisol, and puts up a strong resistance to the progress of diseases Alzheimer’s.
6. Sleep
Sleep is an important factor in daily life. We can’t stress enough how important it is to develop an effective brain. The body regenerates cells and remove toxins during sleep. Also the brain gathers the last day’s memories and resets itself when you’re asleep. It affects memory and learning. An adult requires six to eight hours of sleep. Loss in sleep leads to lethargy and fatigue and inability to concentrate on tasks.
5. Puzzles and Brain Games
Just like we work-out our muscles, the brain also need working-out. The brain loves challenges as it help the brain to improve itself. Brain games, crosswords, Sudoku and chess are games that raise your level of cognitive thinking. Indulging in these activities daily keeps the brain effective and delays the onset of memory-related diseases.
4. Exercise
Physical activity is not only good for your muscles, but for your brain as well. Exercise results in greater blood flow to the brain and causes nerve cells to release several chemicals that promote brain health. It also enhances neurogenesis, i.e. the formation of new brain cells. Exercise also improves neural connections and increases our cognitive function and ability to concentrate well.
3. Good Eating Habits
What we eat makes us what we are. A balanced diet is a seminal requirement for the brain’s health. You need to avoid the junk food and concentrate on consuming enough protein, fiber and various minerals. Eating habits have an immense role in brain function since a fifth of the nutrients we intake is consumed by brain. Include enough vegetables, fruits and Omega-3 fatty acids found in oily fish in your diet. Also drink good amount of water. And never forget to have breakfast, which is the most significant meal in a day.
2. Learn a Musical Instrument
If listening to music can boost your brain, learning music, particularly an instrument can benefit you even more. It can help you to become better in various other skills. Those who play musical instruments are found to be better in mathematical skills. So grab a guitar, piano or whatever interests you and start playing a few notes. Mind you, don’t annoy your neighbors though.
1. Learn a New Language
This is the one tip that most of the neuroscientists agree upon. It not only improves your social skills but learning a new language is better for brain functions than several other ways combined. And, it opens up new neural pathways and has a huge impact on cognitive skills. It has been found to delay the attack of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia in many people. For those who can’t go to classes, there are numerous websites and apps offering free coaching, like Duolingo and Memrise.