Do you spend time at the gym giving your muscles and heart a workout? Well, what about your brain? It needs exercise, too.
Recent studies show the benefits of using mental puzzles and the challenges of exercising and strengthening brain power. Unfortunately, brain function declines with age, and the process starts as early as thirty. The good news is the adage “use or lose it” also applies to brain function. You really can slow down the aging process with exercises designed to strengthen brain power.
Here are six ways to exercise your brain:
Learn a new language
Learning a new language is a powerful way to exercise your brain. Why? It requires using multiple brain functions, including memorization, interpretation, and speaking. It also requires focus. Once you’ve mastered a new language, challenge yourself by visiting a country where the language is spoken and exercise your new skills.
Play board games
Don’t choose mindless games based on chance, but games that require skill and mental focus. The classic example is chess, in which you must think several steps ahead. There are online sites where you can play chess with people worldwide to challenge your brain further. If chess doesn’t appeal to you, try checkers, Chinese checkers, bridge, memory games, or Trivial Pursuit. These also require considerable brain power.
Learn to play an instrument
Learning the complexities of playing an instrument is a stimulating and challenging way to strengthen your brain. If you’re up for a challenge, consider starting piano lessons. Studies have shown that children who take piano lessons score higher on cognitive tests, particularly math. Learning to play any new instrument creates new pathways beneficial for brain health.
Drive a different way to work each day
This is a simple way to strengthen your brain. Exposing your brain to new sights and sounds can help offset aging. Choose a different route every morning and immerse yourself in the visual and auditory stimuli you see. Stop living on auto-pilot!
Carry a crossword puzzle book with you
Keep a book of crossword puzzles with you at all times. When you’re waiting in line, use it to challenge your mind. You can also buy books of brain games that test mental abilities. Do them often.
Explore the world of online games
The internet is filled with games that will test and challenge your brain. Search for “online brain games” and discover the wealth of options available.
As you can see, there are a multitude of ways to exercise your brain. Why not choose one and watch your brain power grow?
