We don’t like to talk about it, but it’s time to assume it—aging is inevitable.
When it comes to brain functions, it’s well-known that aging brings forward changes in the way we think, memorize, and rationalize. However, a change in cognitive abilities does not have to mean impairment.
While we cannot stop the advancement of time and its effect on us, we can considerably lessen its negative consequences in both our bodies and minds.
How so? Take a look at ten of the most effective ways to slow down brain aging and keep your mind as active as you are.
10 – Pick up new skills and keep learning.
It may be a given, but the best way to keep your brain young is to stimulate it with some good, old-fashioned thinking.
Advanced education is an unparalleled mental exercise as it stimulates brain cells and forces your mind to practice memory skills and problem-solving talents.
Anything that challenges you is good to go—creative writing, learning Mandarin, and even playing an instrument.
9 – Meditate 15 minutes a day.
According to Neuroscientist Sara Lazar from the Harvard Medical School, a 50-year-old can have a brain similar to that of a 25-year-old.
How so? By meditating 15 minutes a day.
Specifically, Lazar found out regular meditators have increased grey matter in several critical regions of the brain, including those associated with the senses, decision-making skills, and memory.
Better yet, the brain starts thickening and growing stronger within eight weeks of practicing meditation.
8 – Have a good night’s sleep.
A good night’s sleep has an incredible restorative power upon your body, including your cognitive functions. Sadly, deep sleep may not come as quickly as we age, which in turn can harm memory consolidation.
To prevent this, you should have a strict sleep schedule and get at least eight hours of rest daily. If you have any sleep disorder, discuss it with a medical expert.
7 – Feed your stomach… And your brain.
Eating a balanced diet provides your body with the nutrients it needs to keep working. And yes, that includes your brain!
Recent studies have discovered that fiber-rich foods can stimulate the release of a fatty acid that has incredible anti-inflammatory properties upon the brain. In particular, it can discourage microglial inflammation, one of the leading causes of cognitive impairment.
Some suggested foods include broccoli, nuts, and beans.
6 – Listen to music.
Understanding music is a whole-brain workout. Making sense of the harmonies, picking up lyrics, and unfolding old memories associated with a particular song are incredible ways to stimulate your mind. Similarly, music reduces anxiety and encourages mental health.
While it may be tempting to stick to the music you’ve loved your whole life, your brain really enjoys making sense of new songs, so try to give current hits a chance.
5 – Exercise routinely.
You probably don’t need a reminder, but exercise is quite useful for your body, including your brain.
A study published in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease affirms that a lack of regular physical activity can speed up the decline of white matter in the brain. This deterioration has been associated with memory loss, cognitive decline, and a weakening in decision-making skills.
Conclusion? Fitness of mind and body go hand in hand.
4 – Try to avoid smoking.
There’s no way around it—smoking is bad. It increases the risk for a plethora of afflictions such as lung disease, cancer, heart attacks, amongst many others.
But it turns out it also accelerates your brain’s natural aging process. Multiple studies have discovered that smoking changes the way your brain functions, which can cause advanced neuropathological alterations that can induce cognitive impairment.
3 – Do not neglect the importance of mental health.
Associated with the above, it turns out that spending time outdoors has a substantial impact on brain activity and health.
Research from Stanford University discovered that walking 50 minutes in a park increases memory skills, attention, and offers extra protection against depression. Similarly, spending time in green areas discourages the production of cortisol, a hormone that interferes with memory and learning.
2 – Spend time outdoors.
Associated with the above, it turns out that spending time outdoors has a substantial impact on brain activity and health.
Research from Stanford University discovered that walking 50 minutes in a park increases memory skills, attention, and offers extra protection against depression. Similarly, spending time in green areas discourages the production of cortisol, a hormone that interferes with memory and learning.
1 – Hang out with your friends.
Meeting friends, engaging in social activity, and meeting new people is critical in mental wellbeing.
Engaging with other folks is a surprisingly complex task. While doing so, your brain has to exercise short-term memory and creative thinking, as well as make an effort to stay focused and exploring new concepts.
The bottom line is that habits usually associated with a healthy lifestyle also have a profound impact on your brain’s age. If you feel young, odds are your mind does as well.
