Exercise the Most Important Part of Your Body: Your Brain!

Spring is right around the corner, and every article that is popping up has to do with exercise and getting in shape for summer.  The problem is that none of these articles discuss the importance of exercising your brain!  Although there are changes that happen to our bodies and our brains as we age, there are ways to keep both healthy and in shape!

Studies are showing that keeping your brain exercised can help prevent diseases such as Alzheimer's and Dementia.  Your brain needs to be challenged and exercised daily to not only ward off possible disease, but to improve memory and more!

1.  Learn a Musical Instrument - Learning a musical instrument is great for your brain because it stimulates multiple areas.  No one said you had to be good at that instrument, just practice it!  Studies show that students who learn an instrument tend to score higher in math and science.  Learning an instrument can also improve your hand/eye coordination.

2.  Listen to Music - I'm not sure how many of you listened to music while you were in school to help you study.  I used to listen to anything classical, or instrumental so I wouldn't catch myself singing! Music helps your brain stay sharp.  There are a handful of research articles with kids suffering from ADHD who listened to music (specifically Mozart) while undergoing biofeedback training.  They noticed greater improvement in mood and concentration!

3.  Puzzles - Any type of puzzle is good for the brain.  Some examples are word search, crosswords, Sudoku, and many Luminosity games.  These are not only great for the brain, but are fun too!

4. Stay Social - Studies show people who maintain a good social network, especially those 65 and older, have enhanced neurological fitness as well as a better quality of life.  We are meant to interact with each other, so if you are feeling a need to grow your social connections, find an activity you enjoy and join a group.  Running groups, book clubs, golf leagues are all great ways to boost your brain and socialize!

5. Get Active - Kill two birds with one stone and join a group that is active.  Physical activity keeps your blood pumping oxygen to your entire body, including your brain!  The Proceeding of the National Academy of Sciences published research that people who are physically INACTIVE increase their risk for Alzheimer's by 250%!!

There are plenty more ways to keep your brain in shape, these are just a few examples.  Set a goal to do brain specific exercise a few times a week.  Don't forget to get enough sleep so your brain can produce new cells!  

Happy Thinking!

If you have questions or concerns about your brain health, please contact our office or visit our website!