Exercises to Try That Are Good for Your Brain

Exercises to Try? Who wants to do that? Well today more than ever we need all the brain boost we can get. With a pandemic, job loss, kids going to school online and just trying to maintain. It is easy to see how we can be over stressed, over taxed, and just forgetful. So yes, I have some exercises to try.

In today’s world of social media, news, politics all spewing out information to us and overloading our brains, it’s no wonder that we have trouble remembering things. It’s sometimes difficult for us to concentrate on the task at hand because of bells, whistles and other modern noisemakers, let along thinking about exercises for our mind.

This, that, here, there, everywhere

We’re also under pressure to multi-task – and tax our brains by going from one job to another and expecting to do them all perfectly. It would be easier if we didn’t have so many outside distractions, but with cell phone and other interruptions, no distraction is a thing of the past.

First thing is first, your brain needs water

Our brains, just like the rest of us, can be trained to respond faster and more effectively when called upon and to remember things more easily. Since our brains are comprised of about 90% water, it’s imperative that we hydrate them regularly and often by drinking lots of water — especially during stressful situations.

Try this exercise: engage your brain

Sometimes, memory loss and lack of ability to concentrate is blamed on aging, but if the brain is challenged on a regular basis it remains strong. The brain can be challenged or exercised in many different ways, including puzzles (crosswords and Sudoku), games and reading. You can even play Candy Crush. There are tons of apps and games that can keep your brain stimulated and engaged.

Check with your doctor about any meds you are taking

Memory loss and lack of concentration is sometimes due to a new medication’s side effects. Be sure and check with your pharmacist or health professional about any prescriptions you take that might be the cause of memory problems.

Diet plays a key roll in keeping your brain healthy

Diet and physical exercise is also important when fighting memory loss. Eat a diet that’s healthy, including lots of fruits, fish (and lots of protein) and vegetables. Keeping in shape will also help to keep your brain in working order.

Exercise your brain by doing something new and challenging

Why not break out of normal and try something new – like taking a class at the local college or taking up a sport such as golf. Your brain will react by expanding its ability to concentrate and to take on new projects. This can be tricky in a pandemic, but be creative, and think out of the box. Going online is another option. There are online groups via Zoom such as, book clubs, craft activities. There are so many. You’ll also feel proud of yourself and in better spirits if you succeed in learning something new.

Be aware of more serious issues with memory

Suffering from memory loss can be annoying and sometimes devastating, depending on how severe the symptoms are. If you notice that your memory loss is more abrupt than gradual, see a health professional to get tests that will determine if you’re suffering from a medical problem such as Alzheimer’s or another type of degenerative disease.  If you’re suffering from severe memory loss, it’s important to get a diagnosis as soon as possible.

For more resources on healthy living and diet, check out these posts: