Everyone knows that being physically active is an essential part of staying healthy and reducing your risk of developing certain illnesses. But did you know that brain health—exercising the brain—is just as important as physical health for long-term wellbeing? A healthy brain may help decrease the risk of developing certain types of dementia and help you fulfill your wishes of aging in place. Plus, brain-exercising activities can be fun and stimulating, which adds to the quality of life for active adults.
Here are five suggestions for you to promote your own brain health.
1. Stay Socially Active
Staying socially active helps stimulate your brain, as well as reduce the risk of depression and anxiety. Whether it’s going out to a movie with friends, or enjoying the company of others at regular get-togethers, conversation and companionship are healthier than you may think. If you would like to go out but aren’t sure where to start, contact your local community center, attend community events, seek out clubs or reach out to a friend for ideas.
2. Learn Something New
Some retirees use their newfound time to go back to school and learn new things. You may decide on doing something academic—maybe finishing a degree or certificate—or something less formal, like learning a new language or craft or picking up a hobby. Whatever you choose to learn, it’s a great way to use your brain power, as well as meet new people with similar interests while enjoying an active retirement.
3. Do Puzzles
Are you a crossword puzzle devotee? Do you thrive on figuring out logic problems, putting together jigsaw puzzles or tackling Sudoku? The attention to detail these activities require is a good way to flex your brain muscle. And if you prefer group activities to alone-time, many communities now have activities like “escape rooms,” or similar types of adventures that require strategy and teamwork—and will often leave you laughing.
4. Make a Reading List
Reading offers you the opportunity to escape to a different place, time or even a different universe. You can read for pleasure, knowledge (or both)—this activity requires plenty of brain power. So whether you like to read the daily newspaper, weekly entertainment magazines or latest bestseller, or you’d rather delve into volumes of ancient history, you’re sure to give your brain a fun workout.
5. Stay Physically Active
Studies have shown that exercise helps increase blood flow to the brain and may help stimulate your memory. Being active also helps reduce the risk or severity of depression and anxiety in people of any age. While nearly any type of physical activity is good, like gardening or walking, challenging ones that require coordination can also work your brain. So if you enjoy activities like dancing or martial arts, learning the techniques with the help of a certified health coach may do more than keep you moving.
The great thing about working on your brain health is that there are many activities you can choose to suit your tastes and abilities. Find something you enjoy, and you’ll be exercising your brain without even knowing it!
Learn more about our services and sign up for a free discovery seminar!
