From Brain Games to Brain Health Activities That Sharpen Cognitive Abilities

21 Jun, 2023

Forgetfulness is a common issue that affects every individual as we age. It's not just about forgetting unimportant things but also important matters. This can be a sign of a lazy and sluggish brain.

As the saying goes, "Play is the brain's favorite way of learning" - Diane Ackerman. However, as we age, we tend to become less engaged in games, possibly due to time constraints or other responsibilities. As a result, our brain health starts to deteriorate. Therefore, it is essential to exercise our minds along with our bodies.

According to statistics, approximately 11-13% of older Americans experience dementia, and the primary cause of this condition is poor cognitive abilities. Sadly, men are more prone to poor cognitive issues!

Significance of Brain Exercise

A renowned and licensed psychotherapist in New York specializing in mindfulness and brain games has highlighted the significance of brain exercise. Here are some key reasons why brain exercise is crucial:

• It helps to increase concentration, focus, and memory.
• It helps to be present in day-to-day activities
• It can help to slow down severe cognitive as we age, like dementia

Many of us experience scattered thoughts, difficulty focusing, or occasional forgetfulness when we neglect to exercise and keep our minds sharp.

Just as you can't expect to maintain muscle and strength if you don't go to the gym for three months straight, the same principle applies to your mind. Regular brain exercise is essential for maintaining cognitive function.

Furthermore, choosing brain games that consistently challenge your mind is essential. Repeating the same activity will eventually become less challenging and provide diminishing returns.

Aside from games, another way to challenge your brain is by varying your regular routines or tasks. For example, if you typically wake up at 6:00 am and go for a walk, try incorporating some running, followed by a slow-down phase and warm-up exercises in an open space.

Engage Both Sides of Your Brain to Stay Mentally Strong

Did you know that it's crucial to challenge both sides of your brain? The left brain handles logical tasks such as mathematics and science, while the right brain is more visual and intuitive. Engaging in games like puzzles, chess, or Sudoku can effectively challenge the left side of your brain.

To keep the right side of your brain active, it's crucial to sharpen your emotional intelligence through conversations that evoke and attune to the emotions of others.

Additionally, you can explore new and creative hobbies such as photography, creative writing, painting, playing music, or learning to play a musical instrument. These activities not only provide enjoyment but also stimulate different areas of your brain.

By challenging and engaging both sides of your brain, you can maintain mental sharpness and enjoy the benefits of an active and healthy mind.

5 Brain Exercises to Strengthen to Boost Your Cognitive Abilities in the Long Run

1. The Interconnectedness of Body and Mind

Hundreds of researches emphasize that people who engage in healthy behaviors are less vulnerable to cognitive declines associated with aging. It protects your brain from shrinkage as it ages and promotes neurogenesis, the formation of new brain cells in the brain's hippocampus.

So if you want to take care of your mind, start with taking care of your body. Go for a walk, eat fresh fruits and vegetables, and give up bad habits like alcohol consumption, smoking, or tobacco use. Be cautious about your health and mental health issues and opt for primary care support. It may be difficult, but years later, your brain will thank you.

2. Keep Learning

Every brain exercise demands consistency and commitment, which seems next to impossible. But that’s the only thing that keeps you on your toes and constantly introduces new challenges.

According to a study, researchers divided two groups: experimental and control. They allowed groups to learn new things, from digital photography to quilting. On the other hand, control groups only watched movies and listened to the radio.

After the activity, a memory test was run, and the experimental groups were more active than the control groups. Even after a year, a memory test was taken, which discovered memory improvements were still present.

3. Play Games

Playing online as well as offline games also boosts your brain functions. Puzzles like crossword, jigsaw, and Sudoku are fun ways to challenge your brain, which also improves cognitive abilities. On the other hand, playing chess and checkers can help you be more attentive, problem-solve and enhance your cognitive flexibility.

4. Meditate

One brain exercise that you might not have considered in your busy lifestyle, which can be extremely effective is meditation. A mindfulness meditation is renowned for its positive psychological benefits. It can help with neuroplasticity, reduce brain aging, and improve cognitive abilities.

5. Let the Music Play

Learning to play new musical instruments or singing classes is another way to challenge your brain. According to researchers, it is the most complex skill that challenges your brain and promises healthy brain aging.

Conclusion

Brain exercises can be easy, keeping you and your brain actively engaged in everyday tasks. It may help protect the brain from any age-related degeneration. You may not find it enjoyable, but only challenging your brain is the way to sustain a healthy lifestyle.

Take the first step towards a sharper mind and better cognitive health! Explore various activities that boost your brainpower, from brain games to holistic lifestyle choices. In addition, remember, for comprehensive cognitive care, trust CVMed Pro's primary care services. Schedule your appointment today and prioritize your brain health. Call us at 866-423-0060 or visit our website at www.cvmedpro.com