5 Simple Ways To Sharpen Your Brain As You Age

Most people are concerned with staying physically fit. They eat right to lower their cholesterol levels or practice yoga to improve their flexibility. But what about mental fitness? Exercising the mind is a sure-fire way to boost longevity and independence. A sharper brain relies on several factors, including sleep, nutrition, physical activity, and maintaining hobbies and social activities, all of which researchers say influence brainpower as we age. To keep your mental health in tip-top shape as you age, it’s all about incorporating that mind-body connection into a daily routine that refreshes essential brain functioning. Yet staying cognitively fit doesn’t need to be a chore—it should be easy and fun! That’s why we’ve partnered with GreatCall to identify the best tips in each of these areas to improve long-term brain health—because a stronger, healthier mind sets you up to live your best life. 1. Catch A Few More Z’s At Night Feeling fully rested from a night of deep sleep is what experts liken to taking a sip from the fountain of youth. Improve memory and lessen the risk of insomnia that increases with age by getting the proper amount of shut-eye, according to a new study in the journal Neuron. The National Sleep Foundation states that the optimal amount is about seven to nine hours a night, dispelling the myth that people need less sleep over the years. Use earplugs and room-darkening curtains, and avoid bright screens and caffe...
Source: Healthy Living - The Huffington Post - Category: Consumer Health News Source Type: news