There is a wealth of information on wellness. And with the passage of time, more developments unfold to provide a clearer path toward the achievement of our health goals.
Here are some vital information worth considering.
Are there specific exercises for the mind? Definitely. While many struggle to keep their memory sharp, others have no problems retaining and retrieving information. From remembering the littlest things like where you placed your car keys to solving a mathematical problem, the challenge of saving one’s memory is everyone’s concern.
Exercise—If you exercise regularly, your memory is given a boost. Studies have shown that in comparison, people who exercise score better in memory tests than non-exercisers. This is because exercise, like aerobics, increases oxygen supply to the brain. Of course, there are added benefits like the lowering of risk from heart disease and stroke.
Focus—If you pay close attention to what you are doing, then the mind can zero in on whatever it is that occupies it. Do not think about two things at the same time. For example: your mind is on your paperwork at the office, but simultaneously, you are thinking about a relative who is abroad. Or, you are deciding on what to choose from a restaurant menu when you are introduced to someone.
The result: you forget the name of the person just introduced to you. Key information is easy to recall if you stop what you are doing and focus, focus, focus.
Sleep tight—A good night’s sleep improves memory and is important to brain health. So get at least six to eight hours of sleep nightly. Avoid sleeping pills.
Don’t overload—There are laptops and mobile phone directories that can store massive information. And that’s a good thing. But when you go to the grocery, don’t memorize your shopping list. Instead, write it down, especially if you are a busy person. Making that good old-fashioned list will literally liberate your mind and free up your memory.
Zinc and boron
Eat well—Minerals influence brain health in dramatic ways. A balanced, healthy diet rich in fish, vegetables and fruits will guarantee an abundant supply of zinc and boron. Studies show that women who have low-zinc diets fare poorly in short-term memory tests. But when they increase their zinc intake by 12 milligrams daily, their memories improve.
Trivia: Natural sources: six steamed oysters provide 76.4 mg of natural zinc. Squash and pumpkin seeds, wheat germ and lean meats are also helpful.
Easy on caffeine—Any food abundant in caffeine like coffee, green tea, dark chocolate may overstimulate the brain, making it more challenging to remember. Caffeine has been proven to be a memory killer.
Smoking fogs up the brain—Together with alcohol, smoking reduces brain cell function by inhibiting information storage. Douglas Hermann, PhD, memory researcher, National Center for Health Statistics, Washington, D.C., and author of “Super Memory,” warns us about the devastating effects of long-term drinking on brain health. It kills brain cells.
Stay calm—Panic-prone individuals have difficulty remembering. When an emotion seizes you and you are at once filled with dread, the mind cannot think straight. Instead, control your emotions, keep cool and try to stay objective. While this may be easier said than done, practice staying calm by:
Meditating
Breathing slowly and taking long deep breaths
Sipping a glass of lukewarm water slowly, or drinking calming teas like chamomile, peppermint and St. John’s Wort
Give your brain a workout by doing crossword puzzles, completing a difficult piece-puzzle, learning a new language, practice writing with your left if you are right-handed or the opposite.
A simple challenge is to watch two TV shows at the same time, or concentrate on writing or composing something in a room full of noisy people or when the TV is turned on at top volume.
Memory loss—If you feel that you are losing your memory, consider taking:
B1 (Thiamine)—natural sources are whole grains, nuts, legumes, potatoes.
Supplements: L-glutamine, 500 mg, three times daily on an empty stomach
50 mg B complex, a.m. and p.m.
DHA 250 mg: two to three times daily
Standardized ginkgo biloba tablets, 60 mg, one to three times daily
Today’s affirmation: “I mind and I matter.”
Love and light!”
References: “Age Erasers for Women”—Prevention Magazine
“Vitamin Bible for the 21st Century,” by Dr. Earl Mindell