Even if you think your memory is too bad or it's too late to change, know this, the brain has an enormous capacity to adapt and change - even into your senior years. Your brain is part of your body so it stands to reason that what keeps your body happy and healthy would do the same for your brain. Here are some tips to keep your faculties at their best.
Sleep. Get plenty of sleep. Sleep deprivation compromises all mental function, including key memory enhancing activity.
Physical Exercise. Exercise increases oxygen to the brain, reducing the risk of diseases that can lead to memory loss and enhancing the effect of helpful brain chemicals like serotonin, noradrenalin, and dopamine. Each of these chemicals is vital to a physically, emotionally and mentally healthy body.
Focus. Pay attention and be patient. It takes about 8 seconds to process a piece of information into memory. It helps to make a connection between new information and previously stored information. I think this one could make the most difference because in our fast-paced lives we are just moving from one thing to another so quickly we are not absorbing the information.
Mental exercise is also essential for a healthy brain. Like our bodies, our brain becomes used to the same exercises, so keep your mental exercises new, challenging and fun. Try working the Sunday crossword puzzle or play memory games, such as Lumosity, on the computer.
Nutrition. We all know that eating a healthy, balanced diet with less fat, carbs and fewer processed foods, is supposed to keep our bodies healthy. The same applies to our brain health as well. Try adding more whole foods to your diet including fatty fish (omega 3), colorful fruits and vegetables, nuts, whole grains and wine (in moderation, of course).
De-Stress. Stress plays a large part in short-term memory loss. For improved mental function, try some form of meditation. Meditation means awareness, so anything done with a single focus, blocking out all other distractions, is effective meditation. Notice that there is only a one-letter difference between meditation and medication.
Friend Therapy. Humans, being highly social animals, do not thrive in isolation. We need meaningful relationships for both emotional and mental health. Research has shown that the more active your social life, the slower your memory decline. To stay socially active consider volunteering, join a club or church, get together with friends more often, and don't overlook the value of having a pet - animals are very therapeutic.
Laughter. Laughter is the best medicine for brain and body alike. It engages multiple areas across the whole brain. Focus on finding the funny in everyday life, hang out with fun, happy people, and surround yourself with things that evoke good memories and make you smile.
Keep in mind that there is a boatload of information and tips for healthy brain function and better memory. These are just few ideas to get you thinking, reading and becoming invested in yourself.
Sources:
How to Improve Your Memory
Brain Chemical Messengers
Memory Loss
Disclaimer: For information purposes only and not to be taken as medical advice.
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