6 Science-Backed Habits for a Sharp, Healthy Brain for Life

All of us should realise the truth that, by maintaining a balanced lifestyle and by following certain habits, we can ensure the healthy functioning of our brains till the point of death. Think about it for a moment. Having a sharp and powerful brain, always. Whatever your goals in life may be, with a strong brain, everything becomes easier. Today, science has showed us that there are certain habits that we can follow on a day-to-day basis to ensure brain health. In this article, we will explore these key habits for a healthy and sharp brain.

When we exercise, blood flow to the brain increases. Research has shown enlargement of key brain areas such as hippocampus in the people who exercise regularly. Indeed, by clearing toxins, exercise will protect us from neurodegenerative diseases as well. You can take up any aerobic activity such as running, gym workouts or playing badminton. In fact, if you are too busy for these activities, decide to go to your office on a cycle or by walking. This single activity in itself will help a lot in keeping you sharp in the long run.

Sleeping 7-8 hours will help our brain achieve enough rest and to reset. Furthermore, during our sleep important activities such as memory consolidation will take place inside our brains. Keep a consistent sleep schedule. Remember not to overdo sleeping too. Sleeping more than 9 hours is linked with reduced life expectancy and other lifestyle diseases.

Well balanced diet plays a key role in maintaining brain health. Food items including nuts, berries, leafy greens, fish and whole grains are proven to support the optimum functioning of our brains. Additionally, we should also take extra care in avoiding processed, oily and junk food items.

Activities such as meditation, yoga, breathing exercises or Tai Chi will significantly help the brain to slow down and enter into the natural rhythm of nature. These practices will improve grey matter in our brains, strengthen prefrontal cortex and bring down the production of stress hormones like cortisol. From today onwards, take up one of these activities and become consistent with it. As days pass by, your brain will become happier and peaceful.

You yourself might have experienced that feeling of fulfilment from an outing with friends or family members. Profound conversations and funny discussions keep our brain active and significantly reduce stress. Stress and laughs at a social setting cannot go together. Therefore, this weekend itself, plan a social event with friends. The benefits are too hard to ignore.

You can play brain games such as sudoku, crossword or chess. Develop a habit of reading. It doesn’t matter whether you read fiction or non-fiction. The act of reading in itself is a kind of meditation that will benefit your brain a lot. Learn new skills such as photography, video editing or painting. You can also start learning a new language. These activities will connect you with social groups and individuals carrying similar interests as well.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is 75% of your brain?
   75% of a human brain is water. Therefore, hydration is key for brain health.
2. What is the most effective brain exercise?
   Sudoku, crossword puzzles and chess are usually recommended as three of the most effective brain exercises.
3. What's the best time of day to exercise brain?
   Morning time is great to exercise brain. Go for a run in the morning and you will feel a boost in alertness, memory and focus.