Many of us know the importance of exercise in order to enhance the body’s performance. But many people forget about the most important organ in our body, the brain. Just like our limbs need constant training to excel, the brain needs constant practice and stimulation to remain healthy. A healthy lifestyle should always be maintained when it comes to taking care of your brain and researchers have noted that this could possibly decrease the risk of developing neurological diseases, such as Alzheimer’s. Here are a few ways in which you can improve your brain health.
Exercise
Exercise is an extremely important factor when it comes to mental health. Not only does it boost the functions of the body and fight physical illnesses, but it also adds to the longevity of the brain. Research has shown that moderate exercise can actually increase the size of the sector of the brain that is responsible for memory and information retention. Except for this, regular activity and exercise can help prevent and combat mental illnesses such as depression, manage feelings of anxiety and reduce stress or tension.
Learning
Whereas physical activity keeps our muscles strong and healthy, learning new things keeps our brain active as well. Mental stimulation is very effective in maintaining a sharp and fresh mind. You can learn something that requires a lot of effort such as a language, a new skill, a musical instrument or start a DIY hobby, or you can simply exercise your mind daily by playing games that requires logic, filling in crosswords, or playing Sudoku. Continue to be curious and try to learn something new every day in order to keep your mind agile and flexible.
Balanced diet
It should be obvious that exercise and a balanced diet go hand in hand, but this is not always the case. Many of us simply do not have enough time to do both, so whilst we train our bodies, we often forget to take care of our diet. A balanced diet has been proven to keep the brain sharp and prolong its mental capacity. Experts note that a Mediterranean diet is often best for improving brain functions as it consists out of foods such as poultry, fish, eggs, dairy, low amounts of fats and almost no processed meats. All of these foods have qualities that have been proven to improve brain function.
Socializing
Being social is not for everyone, but it has been proven that socializing keeps the brain young. Interacting with other people not only opens the gateway to learning new things, but it also promotes feelings of happiness and wellbeing.
Stay well-rested
Sleep is the most precious gift you can give to your brain. Not only does it refresh and recharge our brains the next morning, but a good 7-9 hours a night can help improve memory. It is important that you switch off in the evenings and allow your body to get the rest it deserves.
