Exercise your brain just like your muscles

Have you ever asked yourself why some people are more physically and mentally healthy than others and is there actually a way to keep your brain fit and trained, just as you do with your body?

Luckily, it is a well known and proven fact that we should take care of our brain. There are several ways to keep your mind healthy…

1. Pay attention to what you eat. There are a lot of vitamins in vegetables and fruits, which are important for a healthy brain function. Foods which are full of protein are also known as brain fuel food. Getting the right amounts of meat and fish is important, but try not to overdo it in one area.^[1]
2. Drink enough water. It is surprising, how many people don’t even realize that their body is dehydrated. A dehydrated brain can’t function well and to prevent this, it is important to drink enough  water every day. Be careful with coffee and other caffeine drinks, as they will have the opposite effect.^[2]
3. Stay physically active. Try to move as much as possible, in order to keep your body fit. This will stimulate your blood circulation, which will provide oxygen to your brain and help you to think more clearly.  Many people say that exercising keeps them more energetic and fresh for the whole day. Moreover, physical activities can minimize depression and prevent some types of brain diseases as you age.^[3]
4. Do brain exercises. Train your mind everyday with mental games like solving puzzles, crosswords and word games. Learn a new skill like playing a musical instrument or painting. Choosing a brain activity which is the most interesting and challenging for you will keep you involved longer, enhance your learning abilities and help you retain information for longer.^[1]

These are some tips that will help you to keep you mentally active at a higher level. Make sure you  get enough sleep, avoid stressful activities and you should notice that your brain is on top form. Stay healthy!

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[1]Adam A Brown, “Top Tips to Keeping a Healthy Mind” [accessed 25 May 2010]

[2] Ehow.com, “How to Keep an Aging Brain Active [accessed 25 May 2010]

[3] The Franklin Institute’s Center for Innovation in Science Learning (CISL), “Physical Exercise for a Better Brain” [accessed 25 May 2010]

[4] ibid., “Mental Exercise for a Better Brain” [accessed 25 May 2010]