7 Ways to Sharpen Your Mind at Any Age

by MARY JOYE, LMHC

If getting older is getting old to you, you can do many things to improve your brain and your life. Many of us worry about developing dementia, and it’s never too early or too late to boost your brain’s functioning. We all know how it feels to walk into a room and ask, “Why did I come in here?” This can happen at any age and can make you feel like you’re losing your mind. In some ways, you are losing access to short-term memory. The good news is your memory can be restored and enhanced. The earlier you begin to implement holistic tools, the better your aging experience will be. These eight tips are good places to start.

1. Learn something new. Instead of reading a novel, learn something novel. Make it something that interests you. When you use your mind, you don’t lose your mind, and you strengthen neural pathways for better memory overall.

2. A balance of exercise and rest. The release of endorphins, dopamine and other feel-good chemicals during exercise keep your mind sharp. Brain fog is lifted and exercise assists well-being long after it’s over. Mix up activities you like such as walking one day, resistance training the next or getting out in nature kayaking or hiking. Vitamin D from sunshine supports your immune system, but remember to wear sunscreen to keep your skin younger, too. Balance activity with rest, which is the root word of restoration. A healthy sleep routine keeps irritability down while it builds up your ability to cope with stressors.

3. Stress less. This may be easier said than done but is imperative to keep your brain’s executive functioning online. Meditation, yoga or therapy if your stress is unmanageable will help.

4. Eat consciously. There is not one perfect diet plan for all. Find foods that keep you at optimal health

and add them to your diet. Subtract what makes you feel badly after you eat or drink them. Foods, alcohol and other substances can affect your mood, and noticing this or visiting a nutritionist may be helpful.

5. Find something purposeful or spiritual. If you have a calling, answer it! It lifts our spirits when we reach beyond ourselves and help others or work for meaningful causes. It keeps the brain focused on being of value to society and, in turn, to ourselves. Finding purpose begins by recognizing what intrigues you and taking action.

6. Socialize to energize. This is extremely important for brain and physiological health. A longitudinal study from Harvard University proved loneliness is more dangerous to the life span than smoking or drinking alcohol. COVID-19 proved it to all of us how long-term isolation can rewire the brain with PTSD-like symptoms. Solitary confinement is a cruel punishment. Socialize with people who make you feel good about yourself and reciprocate. Positive connections and lively conversations fill our body and brain with chemical exchanges that we need for improved vitality. Have fun!

6. Think about what you are thinking about. Be conscious of your subconscious. If you constantly think about negative things or complain, stress hormones increase and well-being decreases. Practice gratitude and process negative events through positive perspectives and resilience will improve. Your brain can’t simultaneously focus on positive and negative thoughts.

Aging is inevitable, but we can all improve our brain power to act and feel younger. The above methods of self-care will enhance brain health and may help you to live longer, be stronger and enjoy your life at any age.