As we age, it is natural to want to maintain our cognitive and physical abilities for as long as possible.
Do you know that there are two simple things you can do to help keep your mind sharp even at an old age?
These 2 things help your brain maintain a level of neuroplasticity – the magic word that has proven that even for the old it is possible to stay young and think fast!
In this article, we will explore what neuroplasticity is and how it relates to aging, and what are the 2 things you can do to keep your mind in check.
What is Neuroplasticity?
First the bad news – as you age, your brain shrinks.
Now the good news – your brain grows and adapts as it learns in this process is known as neuroplasticity.
Neuroplasticity is the brain's ability to change and adapt in response to new experiences, learning and changes in the environment. It includes the formation of new neural connections, the strengthening or weakening of existing connections and the creation of new neurons.
This process occurs throughout life and occurs in all regions of the brain. This is essential for learning, a good memory and recovery from brain injury.
Overall, neuroplasticity is a fundamental property of the brain, allowing it to adapt and change in response to environmental and internal changes, and it is crucial for cognitive and emotional functioning.
What are 2 things we can do to stay young?
1. Exercise
Regular physical exercise has been shown to promote neuroplasticity by increasing blood flow to the brain, which in turn provides more oxygen and nutrients to the brain. This can help to improve cognitive function, memory and overall brain health.
Exercise alone has benefits that are way too many other than helping with brain function. Exercising lifts moods, slows your physical body from aging and develops muscles to help carry your body should you face osteoporosis.
How much should you exercise? Experts say 3 times a week of 20 mins in each session where your heart rate is elevated is good.
And what kind of exercise should you do? Walking and Rope Skipping are 2 examples of exercises that are less injury prone yet provide adequate intensity for you to work out a sweat.
2. Learning new skills
Engaging in new and challenging activities, such as learning a new language, can help to promote neuroplasticity. This is because the brain is forced to adapt and create new neural connections in order to process and understand new information.
Other than learning new skills, the constant employ of the brain in activities like playing mahjong, reading and doing crossword puzzles have huge benefits as they create new pathways in your brain.
It is important to note that everyone's brain is different and the best way to maintain neuroplasticity is to find the activities that you enjoy and that challenge you. The key is to keep your brain active and stimulated by learning new things, challenging your mind and body and staying socially engaged.
These two tips are the most effective and beneficial ways to have balance in your mind and body. Regular exercises help to keep the body and mind healthy, while learning new things can help to keep the mind sharp and active. These can help us feel young and energized. So why not make it a part of your daily routine and enjoy the benefits of staying young?
How We Help!
Mentalmatics’ programs offer a very good approach to brain development in a social setting. While students learn the use of the abacus, they employ the use of both sides of their brains – the logical and creative side in a fun classroom environment (meaning songs are sung and friendships are made) handled by an encouraging teacher.
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