Taking care of our cognitive health is important because our brain is a vital organ that triggers emotions, controls movements and stores memories. Even though we don’t see it working, we need to make sure that our brain health is optimal. Doing brain training exercises is just as important as doing physical exercise because it encourages the growth of new cells in our brain. It also prevents short-term memory loss when it comes to developing conditions like dementia.
People who learn new skills, engage in new activities, and adopt new hobbies can increase their overall brain health. You are never too old to try new challenges which is why regular brain training is important for keeping your brain in shape. Puzzles are a great way to help you stay mentally active, so why not give these challenges a go?
Benefits of doing puzzles for your overall cognitive health!
- Puzzles require you to use both sides of your brain and this gives you a real mental workout.
- Your short-term memory improves when you do exercises that involve having to remember shapes and sizes.
- Studies suggest that brain training can help with memory loss, delay dementia and prevent Alzheimer’s.
- Puzzles also fine-tune your problem-solving skills because you have to try different approaches to crack codes while doing different challenges.
- Doing crossword puzzles requires you to piece things together, and this is vital when it comes to enhancing your visual and spatial reasoning skills.
- Puzzles can also boost your mood and concentration because when you do something successfully, dopamine is released which helps you feel content and relaxed.
- Anything that requires concentration encourages our brains to go into a state of focus, even meditation. Doing puzzles helps us have a better mindset when facing stress and coping with difficult situations in life.
- Yes, doing brain training exercises can raise your IQ score. Try our free IQ test here!
Eat right for brain health
According to Harvard Health, omega-3 fats found in many oily fish such as salmon, help promote cognitive health. This is because of the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant volume. Blueberries have numerous health benefits such as combating brain aging diseases, while turmeric has been proven to benefit memory and concentration. Of course, if you’re a sweet tooth, you should opt for a balanced diet of fruit and vegetables to promote brain health.
Embrace new hobbies
Nothing helps promote cognitive health and brain-cell growth like taking up a new hobby or learning a new skill, like a language or instrument. Reading about different topics helps us form connections and interpret new scenarios. Whether you are watching a DVD about something you’ve never heard about, learning from a tutorial or reading a book, you are helping your brain stay alert.
Give your brain a break!
Taking a break from a stressful day can do wonders for your brain health. When you are stressed, your brain releases hormones which tend to have a negative effect on brain functions. This means that you may experience memory loss, trouble concentrating or focusing. Taking a daily break of 30 minutes every few hours (if you are working at a stressful job for example) has positive effects on your brain’s health. Sleep is vital as well – so find out how many hours you need to truly feel rested and then do your best to factor those hours into your life. Your brain will thank you for it!
Don’t forget to exercise!
Just as breaks are important for your brain health, exercise improves your blood flow, regulates your weight and lowers blood pressure. When you exercise, your blood flow increases, which means that oxygen and vital nutrients reach your brain. Try fitting in at least 30 minutes of exercise, three times a week! Everything counts, from running, to strength exercises, to yoga. Even doing aerobics in front of a TV screen can be beneficial.
