6 Habits for a Better Brain
The body’s “supercomputer:” 1.1 trillion cells, 100 billion neurons, highly complex, enormously powerful and massively important. And while much of the brain is still an unknown frontier, there is a lot that we do know when it comes to cognitive health. Take action on the short and long term health of your brain. Improve your mental stamina at work and stay “sharp as a tack” as you age with these habits for nurturing a healthy brain.
1) Take a deep breath, and relax.
Stress management and relaxation techniques not only improve your mood but also have an impact on cognitive function. Stress reduces levels of neurotransmitters that play an important role in focus, motivation, and learning. And listen to this: There’s research to show that highly stressed adults have twice the chance of developing mild cognitive impairment. De-stress with morning meditation, a lunch-break walk, or find an empty meeting room for some deep breath work.
2) Move, move, move!
Regular exercise is not only important for cardiovascular health, but it also enhances your brain’s abilities. Aerobic activity ignites neurotransmitters; anaerobic activity builds brainpower (much like it builds muscle mass). This could lead to a faster processing speed for your “computer”! We highly encourage you to get moving: Run a race, join a sports league, take fitness classes, or do squats at your desk!
3) Partake in Brain Training
While you are training for that race, also make time for some “brain training,” mental exercises for practicing memory and thinking skills. Brain training can not only improve recall and help you to stay sharp, but research demonstrates that it also supports the brain’s capability to rebuild lost circuits. One of our favorite apps for brain training is Lumosity, created by scientists and headquartered here in the San Francisco Bay Area.
4) Avoid Environmental Toxins
Environmental toxins can potentially be damaging to brain functioning, yikes! While complete avoidance is impossible here on earth, do your best to increase your awareness of potential culprits. Of course avoid smoking, drugs, and excessive alcohol consumption. Also be cognizant of metal exposure like mercury in fish and aluminum content in deodorants, antacids, cooking utensils, and baked goods. If possible, opt for organic produce to avoid exposure to pesticides.
5) Spend Time with Others
We know you love your work, but be sure to break away from the grind to make time for friends and family. Social interaction not only helps to improve psychological well-being, but studies show it may also enhance cognition and promote neurogenesis. Who wouldn’t like more brain cells?! So have a laugh, donate hugs, and nurture your relationships.
And of course, this list wouldn’t be complete if we didn’t mention the doc’s!
6) Talk to the Doc’s
Talk to one of our doctors of chiropractic or another healthcare provider to address any questions or concerns you may have relating to cognition. He or she may suggest health checks, provide additional guidance or recommend chiropractic care. Spinal adjustments can restore proper nervous system function and increase blood flow to the brain. Many people notice better focus and an increase in speed of processing after chiropractic care. A healthy spine leads to a healthy brain!
But wait, there’s more! Check out our next article, 5 Nutritional Tips for Brainpower.
Medical Disclaimer
The information and reference guides in this website are intended solely for the general information for the reader. The contents of this web site are not intended to offer personal medical advice, diagnose health problems or for treatment purposes. It is not a substitute for medical care provided by a licensed and qualified health professional. Please consult your health care provider for any advice on any exercise, medication, nutrition, or supplementation.