Exercises to Keep Your Brain Alive
The human brain is a complex organ compromised of over 100 billion neurons that receive and transmit information to all parts of the body. Like muscles in your arms and legs, the brain has the potential to grow and get stronger if it is worked. If it is not regularly exercised, it can begin to slow and suffer decreased or "aged" performance. To improve and maintain your brain's strength and speed, incorporate simple mind exercises into your daily routine.
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Use Your Other Hand
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If you've ever participated in an exercise regimen, you know that after a while your body gets accustomed to doing the same physical motions and as a result, plateaus. To see better results, you must engage in different activities to shock your body into improvement. The same rule applies to your brain. To keep it fast and youthful, practice doing everyday motions with your non-dominant hand. Operate a television remote, pour your coffee and jot down a to-do list. It will seem unnatural, but that's because your brain is working in overdrive to acquire a new skill.
Close Your Eyes
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One of your brain's main functions is to sort the details that your senses are experiencing. When you brush your teeth, you feel the bristles of the brush, taste and smell the toothpaste. To give your brain a jolt of novelty and force it to process information differently, close your eyes the next time you are engaging in a routine activity. Never do this while operating dangerous machinery or crossing the street, of course. Stick to safe activities, like taking a shower or eating dinner.
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Compute Mathematical Series
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As we age, we lose both brain cells and the chemicals required to help them function properly. As a result, many people experience short term memory loss. To help counter this phenomenon, engage in number exercises in your head. Start with the number 20 and add 13 to make the series 20, 33, 46, 59, 62, etc. Subtract 8 from 300 to get 292, 284, 276, 268, etc. You can use multiplication and division as well.
Remember Phone Numbers
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Technological advancements have made it easier than ever to store telephone numbers. However, think of how much work your brain would be required to do if you didn't have a handheld phone or computer at your disposal. Try memorizing the phone numbers of your friends and family members. Start with the handful that you call often, then branch out to acquaintances.
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References
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