If you’re finding that your mind isn’t as sharp as it used to be, you’re forgetting more things or you can’t seem to concentrate, it could be a sign that you’re losing some cognitive function. Now while that might seem scary, try not to worry too much. It’s a common sign of getting older but luckily, there are things you can do to improve your cognitive ability.
If you’re looking to improve your cognitive function or you’re just wanting to stop the decline before it even starts, here are some healthy brain tips you can follow.
Consistently challenge your brain
Trying new experiences, learning about new things and challenging your brain in new ways has been shown to improve cognitive performance. Getting out of your comfort zone forces your brain to make new pathways and adopts a growth mindset that keeps it healthier for longer. Take on a new hobby such as photography or painting and watch those synapses fly.
Get good sleep
We know how great we feel after a good night of quality sleep. It puts us in a better mood and gives us energy to keep up with our busy lives. But getting enough good quality sleep is also key to keeping our minds sharp and a lack of sleep can lead to difficulties in problem-solving, reasoning and concentrating, and memory. If you want to improve your sleep there are numerous ways to do so, most of which are just small easy changes to make. Examples of ways to help you sleep better include:
- stop drinking caffeinated drinks after 3pm
- turn your blue light filter on across your various devices
- get enough exercise
- add lavender to your bedroom
- discover your natural sleep cycle and adjust your schedule accordingly if you can
Stay physically active
While our brain isn’t a muscle, physical exercise has been shown to have a positive effect on our brain’s ability to learn and make decisions. Exercise increases blood flow to the hippocampus, the part of the brain that is responsible for memory so it can improve our ability to remember things too. A 2006 study also found that cardiovascular fitness, especially in older adults, is associated with increased brain volume in the areas of the brain linked to age-related decline. As much as a 30 minute walk per day can really help.
Try to reduce and manage stress
Long-term stress, anxiety and depression have all been shown to affect cognitive function, leading to impaired memory and cognitive decline over time. But by taking steps to reduce or at least manage stress, you can head this off. Breathing techniques and apps such as Headspace can be fantastic tools to effectively manage stress and the more you use these tools, the easier it becomes.
Take cognitive boosting supplements
Much like there are supplements to increase levels of vitamins and minerals in the body, there are supplements that can help boost your cognitive function, including your memory. NAD+ supplements are some of the best supplements you can take for your overall health and wellbeing and you can even get specifically designed supplements that focus on your memory. Memory Plus is a supplement that allows you to retain the important stuff. As a natural memory enhancer, it’s tough to beat. Cognitive function improves while your cells renew and those mental pathways are kept clear. If you’re looking for supplements for memory and cognitive function, take a look at Memory Plus.
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