There are many positive ways to build cognitive skills and lessen the chances of problems such as dementia, Alzheimer’s, etc. These diseases often make a person act and feel old at an early age. Here is a list of tips to improve cognitive abilities.
- Exercise Regularly
By exercising you increase blood flow to the hippocampus which is the part of the brain accountable for memory. According to a recent study, people who perform aerobics and stay fit have better cognitive functioning. Exercise helps the brain to inhibit the production of stress hormones and increase the production of beneficial chemicals such as growth factors and neuronal connections. Physical activity also helps to get rid of lazy and fatigue noons. A healthy mind is not prone to diseases like diabetes and cardiovascular complications.
- Reading Books and Writing
Reading can improve life in various ways. Firstly, it keeps your mind fit. Secondly, reading can boost your confidence and personality. It keeps your brain active and engaged which improves cognitive abilities. The mental stimulation from reading helps improve learning capacity and slow down cognitive decline. Writing habits can benefit your brain and personality development, too. It enhances the thought process and cognitive performance. Whenever you have a chance to craft some piece of writing, keep a diary or even provide help with research papers or essays to your peers or kids – use it! (1)
- Solve Puzzles
Solving different types of puzzles will keep your brain active as you have to think differently. A standard crossword helps you to learn a definition based on how it spells. Sudoku improves logical thinking by placing the number in the right order in the puzzle grid. Focusing on the puzzle will keep you worry-free or at least keep your mind busy for some time. Concentrating on the data will keep in control the emotional side of your brain which ultimately improves your cognitive abilities. An active brain occupied with puzzles is less likely to get affected by serious diseases.
- Reduce Stress
Emotional intensity is one of the causes of declining cognitive abilities. Anxiety can lead to a loss in memory which ultimately leads to a loss in cognition. You should reduce the stress by expressing yourself in the best way and having the ‘let it go’ attitude. Meditation helps a lot in reducing stress and makes decision making more rational and clear. You are able to see the bigger picture through mediation as it improves your focus and concentration abilities. You can sit calmly in complete silence and try to focus. This will allow your brain to concentrate on the innermost thoughts and set you free from stress.
- Take Proper Sleep
Today insomnia is a serious problem as it affects memory and other cognitive abilities. According to multiple studies, a lack of sleep increases the secretion of the stress hormone and leads to high blood pressure. People compromise with their sleeping patterns and indulge themselves in work or college studies. It is important to have the proper 6 hours of sleep (at least) and give your brain time to relax.
- Listen to Music
Listening to music helps a lot in improving cognitive abilities, managing stress, and generally cheering up. Scientific studies show that children who play musical instruments are more intelligent than those who just read books. So, play instruments or put your headset or earphones on and launch your favourite track, enjoy it and stay stress-free!
- Take Omega 3 Fatty Acids
Depression and anxiety are the most common disorders which decline cognitive disabilities. Scientists discovered that people who consume Omega 3 fatty acids are less likely to get depressed. It plays a vital role in brain development in an early age and keeps the body healthier thus contributing to the improvement of cognition abilities. Omega 3 helps master calcium inside the cells which is important for muscle relaxation, secretion of substances like digestive enzymes, cell division, etc. This useful stuff can be found in fish, walnuts, wheat germ, and seafood.
These are some of the effective tips to improve one’s cognitive abilities. Follow them and improve your efficiency at work or in class.
Ana Miller is a creative writer. Her topics of interest and expertise range from psychology to all sorts of disciplines such as science and news.
