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A recent study from UCLA linked higher walnut consumption to improved cognitive test storesįew things feel better than waking up after a good night’s sleep.
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To help minimize the negative implications of prolonged stress, the key is to identify the root cause and situations where stress is likely to occur, and then develop effective strategies to help cope. Over time, this can lead to mental problems such as anxiety, mood disorders and difficulties learning. Neuroscientists have discovered that high levels of the ‘stress hormone’ cortisol damages the brain, leading to long-term changes in structure and function. Stress, anxiety and depression, when prolonged, have all been shown to take a toll on cognitive functioning, leading to impaired memory and cognitive decline. Our emotional well-being has been shown to influence our health in many ways, including the health of our brain. Join a group class - such as yoga, Zumba or water aerobics.Start taking a daily walk, even if it’s just around the block.Begin keeping track of your daily steps using a pedometer, fitness tracker or app.A 2006 study found that cardiovascular fitness, especially in older adults, is associated with increased brain volume in the areas of the brain linked to age-related decline. One reason for this is that aerobic exercise increases blood flow to the hippocampus, the area of our brain that is responsible for memory. Numerous studies have shown the impact of exercise on improving cognitive function and memory - including our ability to learn, handle stressors, improve decision making ability and recall facts and memories. Take on a new hobby - such as photography, painting or learning to play a musical instrument.
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At work, volunteer for a project that involves a skill you don’t usually use.To develop a growth mindset, it’s important to get out of our comfort zone and try something new. Openness to new experiences through traveling, learning a new skill or taking on something that is unfamiliar and mentally challenging has been shown to improve cognitive function, according to a 2013 study published in Psychological Science. In essence, whenever you challenge yourself to learn something new or try a new activity you are harnessing your brain’s ability to rewire itself in response to the stimulation we give it.ĭiscover five simple, yet powerful, ways to enhance cognitive function, keep your memory sharp and improve mental clarity at any age.Ī growth mindset is the belief that you can improve your abilities and create successes through continuous learning, practice and persistence. This is good news because it means that you have the ability to influence this process. However, research has shown that the adult brain is not stagnant it is constantly at work, producing new cells and forming neural connections through a process called neuroplasticity.
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We normally associate brain development with babies and young children. As we go through life, our habits not only affect our physical health but can also play a vital role in building better cognition and lessening the chances of mental decline. Luckily, it is possible to look and feel many years younger than our chronological age by making certain lifestyle choices.
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