By Chisom Ibemere
Engaging in physical exercise can improve your brain health, help manage weight, reduce the risk of disease, strengthen bones and muscles, and improve your ability to do everyday activities.
Let’s look at the best exercise that have been shown to help improve memory and cognitive function:
Aerobic exercise, such as brisk walking, jogging, cycling, or dancing, increases blood flow to the brain and stimulates the release of growth factors that promote the health of brain cells. Always aim at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise per week.
Strength training exercises, such as weightlifting or bodyweight exercises, helps improve cognitive function, including memory. It stimulates the release of neurotrophic factors that enhance brain health. Include two or more sessions of resistance training per week.
Practicing yoga and meditation can help reduce stress and improve memory and attention span. These activities promote relaxation, mindfulness, and focus, enhancing cognitive abilities. Regular practice, even for a few minutes a day, can yield benefits.
Engaging in mentally stimulating activities, such as puzzles, crosswords, chess, or memory games, challenges the brain and helps strengthen neural connections, subsequently improving memory and cognitive function.
Solving jigsaw puzzles requires concentration, attention to detail, and spatial reasoning, all of which can improve cognitive skills, including memory. Working on puzzles regularly challenges your brain and improves its ability to recall and analyze information.
Incorporate active learning strategies and mnemonic techniques when trying to remember information. Breaking down complex information into smaller chunks and connecting it to existing knowledge can enhance retention and recall.
Mindful Walking which involves immersing yourself in the present moment and being aware of your surroundings. Paying attention to the sights, sounds, smells, and sensations as you walk.
This exercise not only provides physical exercise but also enhances focus and mental clarity, which can help improve memory.
It is important to know that these exercises work best when combined with a healthy lifestyle, including proper nutrition, sufficient sleep, and stress management. Regularly engaging in these exercises, along with maintaining overall brain health, can help promote a sharper memory.