Reducing stress is key to maximizing your brain’s performance. So how do you do it? •Get out and exercise. Aerobic, physical exercise leads to the birth of new neurons and strengthens connections between brain regions. It also increases brain blood flow to the hippocampus and releases endorphins, the mood-boosting hormones. •Think positive. Reframe habitual patterns where you relive something negative over and over again; such thinking patterns are believed to strengthen unhealthy memories and brain connections. •Change your environment. If your environment is the cause of your stress, do something to reset your brain. For example: Take a walk outside in fresh air, step away from technology for a brief period, or eliminate unnecessary distractions. •Have a support system. Make a list of people you can turn to for advice or just to vent. •Get a good night’s sleep. Sleep can lower stress levels, plus your brain finds new insights into problems that may be causing stress when it is at rest. Remember, short-term periods of stress can enhance brain performance and brain health leading to improved concentration, memory, planning, decision-making and alertness. However, chronic, unending, negative stress has damaging effects that can mimic early dementia. Much of the downside of brain performance is related to our choices and what we do or don’t do to keep our brains healthy each day. So do all you can to reduce your stress and protect your memory.
Posted on: Sat, 06 Jul 2013 12:49:59 +0000
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