10 Smart Things to do to Keep your Brain Healthy
Just like it is important for us to
take care of our bodies, it is important to take care of our brains as well.
You fuel your body with healthy foods and exercise. You can mold and define
your muscles, and loose or gain weight to change your appearance. So what can
you do to take care of your brain? Well, here are ten things to do to get you
started. Follow these ten steps to take care of your brain and you may find
that you are a better student, you may even learn something!
1.
Work it out
Your brain needs exercise just as
much as your body does. It is actually possible for your brain to atrophy just
like your muscles. You can exercise your brain by making it think. Make your
brain think by doing a crossword puzzle or play a word game with a friend. Read
an interesting book, (reading is a big one), watch a though provoking movie and
get creative with a hobby. All of these things can stimulate and work your
brain causing it to function better. If you are having a hard time with
homework or an assignment try taking a break and doing one of these
things.
2.
Get Moving!
Our bodies thrive on physical
exercise, even our brains. When you exercise your heart works harder to pump
the blood through your body increasing oxygenation in your brain which is, in a
way, exercising your brain. It is a good idea to go on a walk in between
classes or take a break from homework to exercise to get your mind
working.
Learning new things creates new
avenues in your brain and challenges it. When you learn new information your
brain becomes healthier. Try learning something new, go to a cooking class or
learn yoga. Play chess with a friend or travel, after all "travel broadens
the mind". It is important to be learning new things constantly for the health
of our brains.
4.
Eat Brain Foods
Yes, they exist. Brain foods are
foods that provide vital nutrients to your brain. First of all always start
your day off with a balanced breakfast. Eating breakfast wakes you up and gives
you the nutrients you need to start thinking and functioning. Studies show that
people that eat breakfast consume fewer calories throughout the day and have a
higher functioning metabolism as well. Foods full of antioxidants like
blueberries, and pomegranate are good for your brain along with fish, avocado,
fruits and vegetables, and whole grains.
5.
Vitamins
Your mom always told you to take
your vitamins, and she was right. Your brain thrives on the nutrients in
vitamins and supplements so make sure that you are putting them into your body.
Omega-3, vitamin B, E and C, grape seed extract and plenty of water are only a
few of the things that you should be mindfully adding to your diet to keep a
healthy brain.
6.
Avoid, Avoid, Avoid
There is opposition in all things.
Just like there are good things for your brain, there are also bad things for
your brain. For instance drugs and alcohol can actually kill brain cells. You
should also avoid or use in moderation substances like caffeine, hydrogenated
vegetable oils, heavily processed foods and fast foods. And last but certainly
not least, do not smoke. Cigarette smoking robs your brain of oxygen and can
cause many problems. In fact, there are studies out there that link some Alzheimer’s
patients to smoking.
7.
Protect your Noggin
Protecting your brain from injury is
definitely one way to keep it healthy and smart. Accidents involving your brain
can be devastating to the way that your brain functions. Always wear a helmet
and wear a seat belt. Be careful when playing contact sports like football and
rugby. Repetitive injuries to the brain can cause serious damage that cannot be
repaired.
8.
Chill Out
Stress can be really hard on your
brain. It is in your best interest to reduce stress as much as possible
for your mind and your body. Reducing stress can also improve your mental
health and state of well being. If you're feeling like you’re close to the
edge, try to bring the stress levels down a notch. Watch a funny movie, go for
a walk or take a bath. Be positive and have fun try not to let stress bring you
down and your brain will be a lot better off.
9.
Stimulate your Senses
Aromatherapy, massage, working in a
garden and baking are all things that can stimulate your senses and influence
your brain. When your brain is subjected to multi-sensory activities stimulates
your brain and helps keep your mind sharp. For instance when you bake cookies,
you combine the ingredients, knead the dough and smell the cookies.
10.
Be a Social Butterfly
Your brain is stimulated when you
talk to friends and family. When you share experiences and emotions your brain
gets stimulants that it needs. Having and making friends is also good for your
mental health. Feelings of isolation and loneliness disappear when you surround
yourself with loved ones.
brain training programs
ReplyDelete- Zengar.com is an Industry Leader in Healthy Brain Workout, Fitness Program, Neurofeedback for ADHD, Brain Exercises, Neurocare, PTSD Disorder and Biofeedback Systems."/>
Thank you for posting such a great article! I found your website perfect for my needs. It contains wonderful and helpful posts. Keep up the good work!
ReplyDeletebrain boosting supplements