Brain like a clock: 12 ways to keep it young and prevent it from "rusting"

Actively use your brain

Regular mental exercises help maintain sharpness. People who actively engage in intellectual activities tend to stay mentally agile longer. Reading books, visiting museums, attending lectures, playing games, and learning foreign languages are simple but effective ways to train your brain.

Step outside your comfort zone

Scientists from Duke University developed "neurobics" - a set of exercises that make the brain think outside the box. Use all five senses to train your brain: if you're right-handed, try using your left hand, change your route to work, or try identifying food by taste with your eyes closed.

Move your body

Physical exercise, especially cardiovascular activities (walking, swimming), positively affects cognitive functions. They improve blood circulation to the brain and strengthen connections between neurons, promoting better memory, imagination, and planning.

Healthy eating - key to a clear mind

Choose foods that are good for the heart and help control weight. Obesity in middle age doubles the risk of dementia. Monitor cholesterol levels and blood pressure.

• Bake or grill instead of frying.
• Use healthy fats (olive oil, nuts, seeds).
• Eat a variety of fruits and vegetables.
• Eat fish.

Alcohol moderately

Excessive alcohol consumption negatively affects the brain, impairing judgment, speech, coordination, and memory. Chronic alcoholism leads to the irreversible shrinkage of the frontal lobes of the brain. Recommended intake: no more than 1 serving (beer, wine, strong alcohol) for women and 2 servings for men per day.

Video games – not just entertainment

Research shows that video games stimulate brain areas responsible for movement, memory, planning, and fine motor skills. While some experts believe games only improve gaming skills, they can be useful brain training.

Music for brain development

Learning to play a musical instrument as a child contributes to cognitive development in adulthood. Music improves memory, planning, and coordination. And it's never too late to learn to play a musical instrument.

Socialize

Social activity positively impacts mental abilities. Participate in volunteer programs, attend courses, and engage with friends.

Control stress

Chronic stress harms the brain's gray matter. There are many ways to relax: deep breathing, laughter, music, yoga, meditation, and communication.

Get enough sleep

Quality sleep is essential for learning and remembering new information. Adults need 7-8 hours of sleep each night to allow the brain to clear out toxins.

Train your memory

As you age, memory may decline. Use an organizer, calendar, or phone reminders. Focus on one task at a time, and study new information gradually.

Name games

To better remember names, repeat them during conversation (aloud or in your mind) and create associations.

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This material is for informational purposes only and should not be used for medical diagnosis or self-treatment. Our goal is to provide readers with accurate information about symptoms, causes, and methods of detecting diseases. RBС-Ukraine is not responsible for any diagnoses that readers may make based on materials from the resource. We do not recommend self-treatment and advise consulting a doctor in case of any health concerns.