Remember the sweet Scarecrow from The Wizard of Oz? All he wanted was a brain!

We can bet you one thing; if he did have a brain, he’d take the absolute best care of it to ensure that it got the TLC it required.

So, do you do the same? Do you feed your brain and give it the TLC it needs to stay sharp?

For being such an integral and necessary part of your overall health and well-being, your brain probably doesn’t always get the attention it deserves.

Did you know that you have an immense amount of power when it comes to keeping your brain young and healthy?

Keeping your brain healthy, even into your senior years, begins by making healthy choices and habits as early on as possible.

Starting today (that’s right!), you’re going to take better care of your big, beautiful brain and we are going to tell you how!

10 TOOLS TO IMPROVE YOUR MEMORY TODAY

1. CHALLENGE YOUR MIND

One of the most important and easiest ways to support brain health is to keep on learning. As you learn, the size and structure of the neurons and the connection between them actually changes.

Activities such as crossword puzzles, board games, playing an instrument, or learning a foreign language are just a few ways to exercise your mind.

We challenge you to opt for a board game or puzzle over watching television. Even just a few minutes a day of testing your mind can improve your brain health.

Even reading an article like this is a great way to challenge your mind. Go, you!

2. INCREASE OMEGA-3 FATTY ACIDS

Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), a component of omega-3 fats, is an essential structural component of the brain and retina. Omega-3 fats are considered essential because the body cannot produce them and we must get them from our diet.

Research has shown that animal-based omega-3 fats can help to reduce the symptoms of many psychiatric illnesses and degenerative brain disorders.

Low DHA levels have been linked to memory loss and Alzheimer’s disease.

Here are the best food sources of animal-based omega-3s:

• fish
• seafood
• liver

Take a deep breath, that was a lot of scientific information! Knowing this will give your brain the power it needs to continue functioning late into your life. Just like the energizer bunny!

3. EXERCISE

Exercise enhances brain function by…

• multiplying nerve cells
• strengthening connections between cells
• protecting neurons from damage

Exercise stimulates the release of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which supports neural health, cognition, and learning.

Exercise even improves blood flow to the brain, which can decrease the risk of stroke.

Whether you’re the kind of person who lifts heavy weights while grunting (we’re looking at you!) or someone who could be a professional speed walker, both activities can help to boost your brain health!

4. GET ADEQUATE SLEEP

Sleep not only supports physical health and wellbeing but is essential for mental health by helping your brain to “reset” when it comes to creating problem-solving solutions.

Sleep enhances neuroplasticity, a process that controls behavior, learning, and memory. Sleep and lack of sleep modify the expression of genes that affect neuroplasticity.

We highly recommend picking up a copy of Sleep Smarter by Shawn Stevenson to learn how to maximize your sleep, health, and in turn your big, beautiful brain!

5. GET ENOUGH VITAMIN D

Vitamin D promotes nerve growth in the brain.

Researchers have identified metabolic pathways for vitamin D in the hippocampus and cerebellum of the brain, areas that are involved in planning, processing of information, and the formation of new memories.

Get out and soak up the sun! The sun is the best way to get your daily dose of vitamin D. There are also a number of high-quality supplements to help you out.

6. LISTEN TO MUSIC

Listening to music has been associated with improved cognition and mental focus.

Interestingly, research has shown that listening to music while exercising boosts cognitive levels and verbal fluency skills in people diagnosed with coronary artery disease (coronary artery disease has been linked to a decline in cognitive abilities).

So go ahead, turn on your favorite jams! We also suggest you sing along and dance! At least, that’s what we like to do.

7. OPTIMIZE GUT FLORA

The gut is referred to as the second brain and the gut bacteria, known as the microbiome, transmit information to the brain via the vagus nerve.

An imbalance in the gut flora can lead to abnormal brain development and neurotransmitter imbalances. The feel good neurotransmitter serotonin is produced primarily in the gut.

Gut dysfunction affects the production of serotonin and also affects mood.

We can’t stress the importance of taking care of your gut! Check out this article on 6 Ways To Improve Your Gut Health!

8. VITAMIN B12

A vitamin B12 deficiency may be associated with a foggy mind and weakness of memory.

Research has shown that low B12 levels may be associated with lower scores on cognition tests as well an increased risk for Alzheimer’s.

Research also shows that eating foods rich in B12 as well as supplementation with B vitamins helps to slow brain atrophy in elderly people with mild cognitive impairment.

Connect with a Health Coach and holistic health practitioner to make sure your vitamin B12 levels are adequate.

9. BUILD SOCIAL NETWORKS

Staying socially engaged may support brain health. That’s right, love your favorite human beings hard and reap the benefits!

Strong social ties have been associated with a lower risk of dementia, as well as lower blood pressure and longer life expectancy.

Participate in social activities that are meaningful to you such as volunteering at an animal shelter, singing in a choir, or helping with an afterschool program. Or, share activities with friends and family.

Please make a point to build these social networks face to face. We’re not referring to Instagram or Facebook here. Although, we do love those platforms too!

10. MEDITATE

The ancient practice of meditation improves memory and concentration. Can you say, “Om”?

Research suggests that meditation enhances the growth of brain areas associated with intelligence. Additionally, it is an excellent form of stress management to calm the mind.

Find what kind of meditation works and feels best for you. There are a variety of ways you can meditate, so don’t get stuck on what’s right or wrong.

Try this On-The-Go Meditation Technique for a quick brain boost!

WANT TO BOOST YOUR BRAIN HEALTH?

There are so many ways you can boost your brain power and longevity! Don’t worry about fitting every single one of these tools in each day. Start with one and add the others in little by little.

Whether you challenge your mind, exercise, add in brain-boosting supplements, connect with a social circle, or any of the other tools, you’ll be sure to be giving your mind the TLC it needs.

Love the information in this article? Watch our free mini-series and learn how you can achieve your Dream Career! Get in touch with us to learn more about beginning your journey!

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