As people age, the desire to maintain brain health soars, primarily to stave off dementia and depression. A survey in 2022 highlighted that while Americans prioritise mental well-being, two-thirds lack knowledge about what effectively bolsters brain health. To tackle this gap, insights from neurologists and neuroscientists were compiled, revealing five essential practices for a sharper brain.
1. Get Your Steps In
Dr. Wendy Suzuki emphasises the transformative power of walking. Just ten minutes of daily strolls can lower anxiety and bolster mental wellness by boosting neurochemicals like dopamine and serotonin. Consistency is key; whether you start at 75 or earlier, regular walking can significantly enhance brain function.
2. Avoid Boredom, Stay Challenged
Dr. Richard Restak’s relentless quest for knowledge keeps him vibrant at 82. He advises evading boredom and embracing challenges like learning new languages or memory games. Suzuki likens this to a “401(k) for your brain,” encouraging continuous mental growth through engaging activities. Striving for challenges—even those that push comfort zones—boosts cognitive resilience.
3. Connect with Others
Social connections nurture mental vitality. Dr. Suzuki asserts that maintaining quality relationships fosters health and longevity. Enjoying a healthy meal or a refreshing walk becomes immensely rewarding when shared, amplifying the brain health benefits through laughter and camaraderie.
4. Practice Emotional Intelligence
Understanding and managing emotions—termed emotional intelligence—is vital. Both Suzuki and Dr. Barrett advocate for becoming adept at navigating feelings, reframing distress into self-care opportunities. They recommend “joy conditioning” to cultivate positive emotions by reliving happy memories.
5. Consider These Questions
Evaluating brain health can be done through the Brain Care Score test, assessing social and lifestyle factors. Questions cover stress levels, smoking habits, and sleep quality. Higher scores indicate better brain health correlating with lower risks of depression and dementia, thus guiding improvements in personal habits.
A 2022 survey revealed that many Americans prioritise brain health yet lack knowledge on how to maintain it. This article outlines five essential practices provided by neurologists and neuroscientists to enhance brain health: walking regularly, avoiding boredom, engaging socially, practicing emotional intelligence, and taking self-assessments like the Brain Care Score.
In summary, nurturing a healthy brain as we age is attainable through simple yet profound practices. Regular walking, seeking challenges, fostering social connections, honing emotional intelligence, and self-assessment can significantly improve brain health. By embracing these strategies, individuals can enhance their mental vitality and ward off cognitive decline, ensuring a sharp mind well into the golden years.
Original Source: www.cnbc.com
