The
brain defines us as the person we are - it sustains our abilities and its
problems are expressed as our disabilities. Keeping it fit therefore should be
high on our list of priorities. Have
you ever witnessed the slow deterioration of someone with Alzheimer's?
If
so, you have watched the person slowly fade away, even while their body may have
remained relatively healthy. It
used to be thought that all brain development happened when we were young and
that the mature brain was unchangeable. This is in fact not the case - the brain
is constantly revising itself and changes physically every time we learn something
new. The capacity
of the brain to change itself has become known as 'brain plasticity'. If
we keep the brain active by constantly learning we can strengthen neural connections
- conversely, if we don't use our brains the connections weaken and may be lost
over time. By
constantly challenging ourselves and learning we can retain our mental sharpness.
| The
learning activities should teach you new skills and should command your full attention.
Easy crossword puzzles are not enough; you need to tackle difficult puzzles that
push your brain to the next level. Whatever
the activity constantly keep pushing your self to improve and try a variety of
activities rather than rely on one hobby. Try
something new and rewarding e.g. learn to dance, do a complex jigsaw or take up
juggling. These activities engage the brain on several levels leading to improved
learning and memory. There is limited value in doing something you know well and
can perform without paying close attention.
If you are right handed try
doing things with your left hand (or vice versa) e.g. brushing your teeth or eating.
Eat more oily fish such as salmon, which is known to improve cognitive function.
Also do more
physical exercise - this has positive effects on the hippocampus, a brain structure
important in memory and learning.
The old adage of 'use it or lose it'
still holds true. |
