As you get older, it’s not unusual for your memory to fade slightly. You might notice you have become more forgetful, and increasingly reliant on sticky notes and phone alarms to ensure you remember important tasks.
A tiny bit of occasional brain fog is nothing to worry about, but it is important to keep your mind sharp as you age. Without regular stimulation and challenges, your cognitive function can decline more sharply and leave you with an increased risk of dementia, Alzheimer’s, and other conditions.
So how can you keep your memory alive and reduce your forgetfulness? Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to ensure your mind stays active and boost your ability to recall information. Here are four tips to get you started.
Stay physically active
Regular exercise keeps your body working as it should, and increases the blood supply to your brain. If you let your fitness regime slip, your cognitive abilities will decline more quickly. Make sure to get at least thirty minutes of exercise a day, whether that’s going for a walk, a bike ride, or taking part in a fitness class at your local sports center. Not only will your memory improve, but you’ll also feel healthier, happier, and stronger.
Challenge your brain
Your brain is like any other muscle in your body. You need to train it so that it becomes stronger. By engaging your mind in a mental workout, you can improve not only your memory, but your concentration, reflexes, and intelligence too. Crossword puzzles or Su Dokus are a great option as they are easy to access and can be done in small increments in your spare time throughout the day. Jigsaws, board games, books, and certain phone applications are also great for brain training. Just make this a part of your daily routine and you will keep your memory active for longer.
Use natural remedies
There are certain natural products and ingredients that have been shown to boost memory and improve cognitive performance. Turmeric, Omega-3 fish oils, sage, and vitamin B are notable examples. Try incorporating more of these ingredients into your diet to maintain your memory. There are other products available on the market, such as Noopept spray, that purport to reduce memory loss and improve brain function.
Limit your screen time
We live in a world in which most people are addicted to their smartphones. We carry them around with us all day wherever we go, and it has become the new normal to stare at our phone whenever we have a few free minutes. But this is making us stupider. Studies have shown that excessive screen time leads to a decline in memory, attention span, and cognitive ability., Not to mention the impact it is having on our postures, vision, and ability to connect with others.
Scrolling through Instagram or watching YouTube videos on repeat is one of the worst things you can do for your memory. It’s important you take steps to break this habit and reduce your screen time. Carry a book with you wherever you go, so you can pick that up instead of your phone. Set timers for certain apps or delete the worst offenders from your phone. Reclaim your brain and get your memory back.