Maintaining brain health should be part of our daily responsibilities. Age-related cognitive decline can be delayed with a range of activities designed to train the brain. A nutrient-rich diet is particularly important for brain activity, but other aspects of daily routine should not be neglected either. Stress, lack of relaxation breaks, smoking, alcohol consumption and repetitive lifestyle habits that don't put the brain to work are the most common factors that slow down brain activity. What are the 7 pillars of a healthy brain well into old age?
We cannot separate mental health from physical health. That's why, before you do anything to your body, weigh up the consequences for your brain.
Do you feel guilty about wasting time whenever you take vacations or relaxation breaks? Holidays have a therapeutic effect on the mind, get your body moving and improve your ability to concentrate. Sports and massages are also part of the active rest category. If time doesn't allow you to get to a massage, Fujiiryoki Japanese massage chairs with 86 massage techniques bring relaxation to your home. With the full body massage chairs, you benefit from body scanning for a massage tailored to your needs. After every workout, demanding day, before starting the day strong, set aside at least 15 minutes in the automatic massage chair. Massage rollers and hot air cushions optimise blood circulation, increase joint mobility and muscle flexibility. On a mental level, discomfort is replaced by a state of deep calm and relaxation that reduces the risk of strokes, improves connectivity of cognitive networks, encourages concentration power, memory capacity, work performance and even creativity.
Lack of cognitive activity leads to brain atrophy over time. Just as we need sport to increase muscle strength, so gymnastics is essential for the brain. It develops the connections of cognitive networks through fun exercises, from puzzles, chess, board games, reading, memorising a poem, learning a foreign language or playing a musical instrument. Moreover, reading a book develops logic, critical thinking, communication and the ability to argue and associate.
It's no secret that an adult needs a minimum of 7-8 hours of sleep to keep their tone and focus on everyday activities. During sleep the toxins we collect during the day are removed from the brain. Cerebrospinal fluid that protects the brain is better pumped out during rest hours.
Studies have shown over time the importance of social relationships for brain health. Quality interactions with people who share common values with yours have a therapeutic effect. They alleviate anxiety, prevent symptoms of depression and slow down the brain's ageing process.
Training the brain is an ongoing process that we do every day by inserting a few habits into our routine. The ideal part is that these habits boost our serotonin, give us pleasure and are simple to do. What could be more satisfying than doing what you love every day and keeping your brain at full capacity?
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