How to reduce mental effects of aging
As the body ages, the brain also ages. Sometimes as a result of aging our brain seems not to be active, we tend to forget things quickly, and sometimes we suffer a memory loss entirely.
Deterioration of the brain usually sneaks up on us. By the time we realize it, it may be too late. As we get older, we more frequently start asking questions like “Where did I put the car keys?” “What was it I was supposed to get at the store?” “What’s your name again?”.
Most of us have had to ask questions like this, and it seems to happen more often as we get older. We can’t turn back our biological clock, but there are things we can do to reduce the rate of their mental decline.
Let's look at some physical activities you can indulge in to reduce the mental effects of aging.
Try solving puzzles
To help avoid the deterioration of your mental faculties as you age, you should do mentally stimulating activities.
Mentally challenging games help keep your mind sharp. Play games that are somewhat hard, games that need thorough thinking before you figure out what you are expected to do.
You can also do crossword puzzles by yourself, soduku is a good example. You can also play chess or cards with a partner or against the computer.
Try a brain training app
Download a brain training App like Lumosity Elevate, Peak, Cognito or Fit Brains Trainer.
These apps feature collection of quick games that test mental skills like memory, adaptability, focus, reasoning and calculation speed.
Practicing the game on a daily basis is believed to improve brain function.
Meditate always
Regular meditation has been linked to healthier brains and especially in older people.
Mindful meditation helps alleviate activity in the part of your brain that causes unproductive and stressful thoughts. Reducing these negative thoughts through meditation is known to slow the volume loss in brain tissues that happen as we age.
Sit up comfortably on a chair or on the floor and with your eyes closed, relax every part of your body while thinking about each part.
Breathe in and out deeply in any way that feels natural to you, focus on how the breathe moves through your body. Then think of a mantra that is meaningful to you and repeat it silently to yourself.
PS - Mantra can be any word, sounds or phrase you read meaning into.
Focus on your breath and your mantra and try not to think about anything else, relax and try to ignore any intrusive or disruptive sounds or thoughts.
Meditate for any length of time that feels comfortable to you. Beginners often start with 5-10 minutes session and increase the time length as they become more comfortable with the practice.
Stay fit to reduce mental decline
In older adults, cardiovascular fitness has been linked with improved brain function. Physical fitness affects mood, cognitive function, and overall brain health.
Aerobic activities that promote cardiovascular fitness include walking, swimming and riding a stationary bike. Adults should get 30 minutes of aerobic exercise per day.
Incorporate the afore mentioned steps in your daily routine and see your brain stay active even at old age.
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