5 Essential Exercises To Work Out Your Brain
Henry Emmons MD, is a psychiatrist and David Alter, PhD, is a clinical psychologist. They are the authors of Staying Sharp: 9 Keys For A Youthful Brain Through Modern Science And Ageless Wisdom, out now from sister company Simon and Schuster.
Do you believe mental and physical decline is an inevitable consequence of aging? It's not. At last, this outdated idea is giving way to a new way of thinking: the recognition that aging doesn't have to be a time of degeneration, but instead that getting older can hold tremendous potential for growth and reward. But how?
Here are 5 essential exercises you can begin to practice, regardless of your current age or stage of life, to keep your mind sharp and vibrant.
Related: 5 Simple Exercises That Lower Stress
Cultivate Focused Attention
We live in a world flooded with noise masquerading as information. This distracts us from focusing on what matters most, which is a prerequisite for healthy aging. A simple practice combines stillness with intentional focus – some people call this meditation. Find a comfortable place where you sit still while simultaneously focusing your attention on a pleasing scene or object for two minutes. If closing your eyes is more comfortable, simply imagine the scene or object. Expand this by 1 minute each day until you can sustain this focus for 20 minutes.
Move Your Body To Build A Strong Mind
Your body is designed to move, and evidence shows movement supports a healthy mind as we age. Movement is a major anti-depressant, worry-reducer, and potent sleep-enhancer. Identify local parks or outdoor settings where you can safely walk at a comfortable pace 3-5 times per week for 20-30 minutes.
Nurture Your Curiosity
A curious mind gravitates toward novelty. Curiosity reboots the brain as it seeks alternatives to what has been in favor of what could be. In the process, the brain rewires itself, resulting in a more flexible and adaptable mind. In the next month, explore "one new thing" each week: a new restaurant, a new route to work, a different class at the gym, or an alternative social activity. Be creative.
Practice Altruism
As newborns, our very survival depended upon our social connections. While our basic social nature doesn't change, our routines and habits can shrink our social support network with the passage of time. Our brain suffers from this reduction in social connection. Altruism involves behaviors that help or support others. Altruistic behavior involves simple but powerful and pivotal practices that promote brain health while creating more positively connected relationships with others. Going forward, make it a habit to sincerely inquire about people's days. Give the altruistic gift of other-directed, open-hearted attention.
Rest Peacefully
The most under-recognized brain medicine is a good night's sleep. Sleep is one of the brain's master regulators. Healthy aging depends upon healthy, restorative sleep. Beginning this week, finish eating 2 hours before bed and turn off electronics and other bright lights at least an hour before retiring. Instead, using the stillness practice introduced above, take a few minutes to slowly review what healthy changes you have introduced into your life as you embark on the journey to discover the glorious potential of your aging.
Related: 5 Helpful Tips For A Long Life