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In today’s digital and fast-paced era, people of all ages are suffering from forgetfulness, mental fatigue and lack of focus. From children to the elderly, everyone often complains that they forget small things or their brain is not able to work as fast as before. The common belief is that as we age, our brain cells naturally become weak and the formation of new cells stops. But modern neuroscience and renowned brain experts have proved this old belief completely wrong. Scientists say that just like the muscles of our body, our brain can also generate new brain cells and refresh itself at any age due to the property of ‘neuroplasticity’.
In scientific language it is Neurogenesis This means the birth of new neurons in the hippocampal region of the brain. This part of our brain is the main center for memory, learning ability and controlling emotions. When we keep our mind busy in the same boring and routine tasks, the brain cells start becoming dull. On the contrary, when we teach our brain something new or do physical activities that challenge not only the heart but also the brain, blood circulation in the brain increases and the secretion of a special protein called ‘BDNF’ (Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor) increases. This protein acts like a fertilizer that helps in growing new neurons and connecting them together.
To increase brain function and make memory as strong as iron, neuroscientists have recommended three surefire workouts that any person can include in their daily routine to keep their brain young forever:
1. Aerobic Exercise and Cardio Workout (Physical Cardio for Brain)
Often people think that exercising only strengthens the muscles and heart, but neuroscientists believe that brisk walking, running, cycling or swimming is directly the best tonic for your brain. When you do aerobic exercise at least 4 days a week, large amounts of oxygen-rich blood is pumped from the lungs to your brain. This process helps in increasing the size of the hippocampus, which miraculously improves the memory ability and reduces the risk of serious diseases like Alzheimer’s manifold.
2. Neurobics or Brain Exercise (Cognitive Novelty & Neurobics)
The second most effective technique is ‘Neurobics’ i.e. mental exercises that take your brain out of its normal and comfortable state (comfort zone). Under this, you can do some small everyday tasks in a different way, like brushing teeth with your opposite hand, walking in the room with closed eyes, learning a new language or a new instrument, or solving Sudoku, chess and difficult puzzles. When you task your brain with a new and complex task, new and stronger synaptic connections are formed between neurons, which slows down the process of brain aging.
3. Mindfulness meditation and deep breathing practice (Mindfulness and Breathwork)
In today’s times, stress is the biggest enemy of our mind. When a person is constantly under stress, the level of cortisol hormone increases which gradually starts destroying brain cells and memory. Neuroscientists say that just meditating for 10 to 15 minutes daily or doing deep breathing pranayam strengthens the prefrontal cortex of the brain. This workout not only provides mental peace but also creates the most favorable environment for the growth of new neurons while improving clarity of thought, focus and emotional control.
The brain is the control room of our entire body, so taking care of it should be our top priority. If you also want that your memory does not weaken with age and your mind always remains young and energetic, then make these three best brain workouts a part of your daily routine. Adequate sleep, proper eating habits and the habit of accepting mental challenges will always keep your brain healthy and active.