How To Keep Your Mind Sharp

Here are a few tips on how to keep your mind in top shape:

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Learn something new

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You can start with something small, such as switching hands when you write or do activities. Try brushing your teeth with the opposite hand or using your fork in the other hand, it will give your brain a nice challenge. You could also give your brain a workout by learning a new language. Taking on a new hobby or challenge will test your memory and help to keep your mind on it’s toes!

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Manage your blood pressure  

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Keeping your blood pressure in check is crucial for optimal brain health. Approximately 20 percent of the oxygen you breathe in goes to your brain, yet according to Heart MD Institute, high blood pressure can impair blood vessels leading the brain and starve the brain of oxygen. You can manage your blood pressure by reducing salt in your diet, limiting alcohol, exercising, cutting back on caffeine and eating a balanced diet.

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Physical activity

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Did you know exercise boosts your brain’s ability to think and remember? Of course, you don’t have to run marathons or become a gym obsessive, simply get moving and do what you enjoy, whether that’s walking, dancing or cycling. The Heart MD Institute notes that physical activity increases circulation to the brain and produces a hormone called brain-derived neurotrophic factor which promotes preservation of existing neurons and the creation of new ones. If that isn’t reason enough to exercise, I don’t know what is!

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Eating a healthy diet

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Eating healthy, anti-inflammatory foods like nuts, seeds, fish (such as wild-caught salmon and sardines) on a daily basis is wonderful for the brain. Healthy foods are the fuel your body runs on, protecting and fortifying brain health. Try generously drizzling your vegetables or salads with extra virgin olive oil, or try cooking more with coconut oil. These healthy fats will work wonders for your body.

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Getting enough sleep

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Sleep can be overlooked when it comes to brain health, however, not enough sleep can aid memory loss. Make sure you’re getting a full 8 hours of sleep each night in order to function well and keep your brain performing at it’s best. Try winding off computer or phone screens a couple of hours before bed to adjust your eyes and mind to the evening light. I often find reading a book or listening to some relaxing music helpful for getting to sleep and getting the full rest I need.

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I hope you enjoyed these tips. Get in touch with us today to find out how Evergreen can help you transition into a healthy and happy

retirement.

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Thanks,

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Anne