Beat The Brain Drain

                                                                     

I published this article several years ago on a website I had at the time...................

Studies show that staying mentally and physically active may help delay the onset of Alzheimer's disease.  Research also suggests that POSITIVE and mental expectations can boost your immunity when you're sick.  Did you know that the way in which your body works has a lot to do with your brain?  

         So, what is the prescription for a sound mind?  

Start by introducing some of these steps into your daily routine.

                      Challenge your mind!

                           Have fun!

What can you do?

**Read - Make a point to read more.  Watch Tv and stay on the computer less.  Reading significantly enhances cognitive ability.  

**Be Social - Maintain a cherished circle of friends and family. Conversation forces you to think about interesting topics.  It will boost your mood and help keep the mind engaged.

**Stop and Smell the Flowers - Did you know that aromas induce a POSITIVE mood, which lowers stress and keeps you sharp?  In a recent health update in Self magazine, Alan R. Hersh, MD, neurological director of the Smell & Taste Treatment and Research Foundation in Chicago stated that people who sniff floral scents are 17% quicker on mental tasks than those who don't.

                                

**Write - Express your feelings.  Write things down.  Journaling helps relieve your mind of stress and helps you feel more focused.  So, before your head hits the pillow at night, release your joys and concerns onto paper.

**Sleep On It - Your brain is very active when you are sleeping. Scientists believe that when you are sleeping your brain is organizing the information you acquire when you were awake.  Remember.....8 hours is the magic number when it comes to sleep...no matter who you are or what your age!

**Listen To Music...and Dance - This offers many healthy benefits, including concentration skills.  Dancing is challenging.  Dancers learn to think quickly on their felt.  Music is relaxing and wipes worries away from your mind.  Certain songs evoke emotion.  This triggers the brain to recall and retain more memories.

START TODAY!  Give yourself a brain boost, a mental work-out.  Age-proof your mind.  Stay sharp.  Exercise and challenge your mind.

And personally.................I hope you DANCE.

                             
Today - Make A Difference in yourself.  Beat the brain drain!