“As you get older three things happen. The first is your memory goes, and I can’t remember the other two.” – Norman Wisdom.
This quote may make you giggle, but having a bad memory can leave you feeling frustrated. While everyone experiences bouts of forgetfulness, many people forget that the brain is a muscle that needs to be exercised. The brain has an amazing ability that allows it to change and grow new neural connections each day, even in old age. How cool is that?
To make sure that you take full advantage of this incredible superpower, here are a few ways you can improve your memory.
Break free!
While sticking to a routine can be beneficial, sometimes it helps to take a walk on the wild side and break free. There’s no doubt that we become more forgetful when our brain labels something as “boring”, and sticking to a stringent routine can often do this.
Stepping outside of your comfort zone and having new experiences will help your brain retain information. Head to that exotic restaurant you’ve been wanting to try or do that random boot class you spotted online.
Consume less sugar
We all know that constantly consuming copious amounts of processed sugar can lead to an array of health-related issues, but this includes cognitive decline. Various studies show that having a sugary diet can lead to poor memory and lowered brain volume, including the part of the brain that stores short term memories.
We know it’s tough, but there may not be a better reason to cut back on those sugary drinks and treats.
Challenge yourself
Your brain is a muscle that needs constant exercise. Apps such as Words with Friends and Lumosity provide great and easy ways to get the wheels in your mind turning. Instead of watching another episode of Friends when you get home, why not spend a few minutes with one of these apps or spend your free time learning something new.
Find your zen
There are endless benefits to meditation, including the ability to reduce stress, pain, blood pressure and improve your memory. According to Healthline, meditation can increase grey matter in the brain, which contains neuron cell bodies.
As we get older, this matter slowly shrinks, which leads to poor memory and cognition. Setting a few minutes aside each day will not only benefit your memory but your overall mental health.
Drink less alcohol
While having a glass of wine or whiskey after a long day can help you unwind, consuming too much alcohol can have adverse effects on your health and could lead to a decline in your memory.
Various studies have suggested that extended periods of binge drinking can damage the hippocampus, a part of the brain that plays an important role in memory.
Avoid excessive drinking to help keep your memory as fresh as a daisy.
Picture: Pexels
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