How To Improve Your Memory

Your memory plays a crucial role in your life. It is because of your memory that you can remember simple things such as your name and home address or more complicated things such as memorizing by heart the multiplication table, solving the average velocity of a car, or learning new words in a new language. But sadly, as one age, so does one’s memory. Memory lapses can happen at any age, to anyone. Thanks to science and intensive research, there are now ways to protect and sharpen your mind. Here are the major strategies you can try out.

1. Get some sleep, power naps included.

Don’t underestimate the effects of sleep. According to research, sleeping enhances your memory and helps you “practice” and improve your performance of challenging skills. Taking a nap (especially after learning something new) helps in retaining those memories, recharges your brain, and keeps it sharp.

2. Feed your brain.

What you eat (and don’t eat) has a big impact on your memory. Maximize your brain’s ability by eating the right stuff. Excellent foods for the brain are blueberries, nuts, green leafy vegetables, broccoli, turmeric, avocado, salmon, nuts, eggs, green tea, and dark chocolate. These foods are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, anthocyanin, and antioxidants.

3. Move your body.

Keeping your body active is good not just for your waist and heart but also for your brain as well. Regular exercise increases your heart rate and maintains the flow of blood, carrying the right amount of oxygen and nutrients that your brain needs. When the nutrients don’t make it there, the brain’s ability to function is compromised. So, the next time you feel like your memory is failing you, take a few minutes to exercise and move. You’ll be surprised how a short walk around the block, or a quick jog, clears your mind and improves your memory.

4. Meditate

You can benefit a lot if you know how to meditate correctly. Meditation improves your ability to concentrate and focus and it decreases your stress level and improves your memory.

5. Keep your brain active. Recent studies show that keeping your brain active helps delay memory loss. There are many ways to keep your brain busy. Simple tasks like reading, doing crossword puzzles, playing cards, learning a new language, or mastering a new skill are ways to keep your brain active. By doing new activities beyond your comfort zone, you are keeping your memory sharp.