As one of the largest and most complex organs in the human body, your brain is critical to your body processes in multiple ways. As the data center that oversees your cognitive health, motor function, emotional function and tactile function, you simply would not be who you are without it. For this reason, you should make an effort to take care of this vital organ. For some suggestions on how you can better love your brain, consider incorporating these tips into your daily life.
1. Stimulate Your Mind
How often do you engage in “brainy” activities such as playing cards, working jigsaw puzzles, playing crosswords or completing word searches? According to research, doing these things is an effective way to not only entertain yourself but also to stimulate new connections between nerve cells in your brain. Additionally, stimulating your mind in this way can also help you develop neurological plasticity. In turn, these are great ways to optimize your memory and focus.
2. Consume Vitamins and Supplements
Being well-nourished, in general, is another way to help support brain health. When your entire body feels good, so does your mind. The thing is, many adults are lacking the necessary nutrients for optimal health. Luckily, there are vitamins and supplements to help fill in the gaps in your current diet. The best part is that choosing a product like those from USANA can help you maintain your health while also providing the reassurance of label accuracy. With a coq10 supplement, for example, you know what you are taking without having to worry about unknown ingredients.
3. Read a Book
When was the last time you got lost while flipping through the pages of an engaging read? For another entertaining way to strengthen connections in your brain while improving memory and concentration, try reading a book. With many options to choose from, there is a multitude of options for whatever mood you happen to be in.
4. Protect Your Head
A lot of taking care of your brain involves mental stimulation, but physical protection is also very important. You should always wear a seat belt when driving or riding in a vehicle. Similarly, use a helmet whenever you are playing contact sports or riding a bike.
5. Reduce Occasional Stress
Most people know that too much stress is bad, but do you know how it impacts your brain? In general, stress can affect your mood and memory. If you are having trouble remaining calm or remembering what you are supposed to do, try incorporating weekly de-stressing activities into your regular routine. Whether you practice deep breathing, meditation or another relaxing activity, the key is finding a way to promote calmness.
6. Get Quality Sleep
As one of the biggest causes of reduced concentration and memory functioning, poor sleep is also very bad for your mind. For a simple way to support cognitive performance, make an effort to get quality sleep every night. When you are sleeping, your brain forms and maintains pathways while supporting your memories and concentration. Sleep also helps nerve cells communicate with each other. As such, you should aim for at least seven to nine hours every night.
7. Connect With Others
Do you ever find yourself isolating? If so, you are not alone. Even if you consider yourself an introvert, however, connecting with other people is necessary to maintain your mental health. This is because social connections can keep your brain active while reducing feelings of isolation. Social activities can also help you become more engaged with the world around you.
Although you may not think about taking care of your brain as often as other parts of your body, it is one of the most vital organs. For this reason, you should make an effort to keep it as healthy as possible. Try implementing some of these tips into your daily life and note how your thinking, memory and concentration improve.