When is the last time you did some neurobics? If you read that and wondered what it means, don’t worry, you’re definitely not alone in your struggle. Neurobics is mental exercise. Many people focus on their bodies, their muscles, their cores, and their overall physical conditions without giving much thought to what kind of shape their minds are in.
Brain health is not something that is typically taking front and center stage. In fact, some people might admit to never giving brain health much thought at all. Studies show that certain activities are quite beneficial for your brain. The more you exercise your mind does not necessarily equate to the smarter you will be. However, you are likely to strengthen your brain by using it in unconventional ways.
Brain exercise can prevent adverse health conditions
Mind exercise may help protect you from certain adverse health conditions as you age. Three main factors to building a strong brain are memory, processing and reasoning skills. Ironically, one of the best ways to build cognitive strength and sharpness is to keep your physical body in good shape. Just as a sedentary lifestyle is bad for your physical health, it also leaves you more prone toward mental illnesses, such as dementia.
You can also exercise your mind by learning something new. Challenge yourself. Try a new hobby or skill. The process of learning keeps your mind well-tuned, alert and aware. What if I were to tell you that you can strengthen your mind through music? Learn more about that, here! Also, do you know that people who socialize are less likely to develop Alzheimer‘s disease and other mental illnesses?
Mind exercise for the introverts among us
Perhaps, you are more introverted and aren’t big on the idea of socializing. You can provide service to others by volunteering in a community program of some kind, such as reading stories to school children in your area or working in a soup kitchen for those in need. Interacting with other people engages many parts of your brain. The more you use it, the better.
You know the saying, “You are what you eat.”? Well, it’s true!
What you eat definitely affects the health of your mind as well. The old adage, “you are what you eat” has a lot of truth to it. A contaminated food supply has been a detriment to physical and mental health throughout the nation. Good brain foods include sunflower seeds, walnuts, avocados and blueberries. Bad brain foods include processed sugar, especially sports drinks and soda.
Exercise your mind with prayer
Many people also say they feel mentally healthier when they are spiritually centered. Prayer and meditation can give your brain a boost. Playing word games, doing number puzzles or otherwise challenging yourself intellectually and mentally can help you protect and strengthen your brain.
The next time you exercise, don’t forget to add a few neurobics to your routine!
Writer Bio: Judy Dudich
Judy Dudich resides in the beautiful woods of Pennsylvania, where 24 acres of land and a home-office provide the perfect setting for her children’s home-education and her own homesteading and business ventures. Life is full of blessings (and challenges!) for Judy, as a wife, mother of 10 and Grammy to six. She is a published author, whose book, “I Surrender/A Study Guide for Women” continues to encourage and support others in Christian family lifestyles throughout the world. Judy has also previously worked in the online speaking circuit. Her passion for permaculture, re-purposing, foraging and organic gardening fills her days with learning and adventure that she loves to share.
