When you want to improve your cognitive performance, your brain health is not just your neurological networks, it’s your social networks. Who you spend time with is who you become. We have mirror neurons that constantly imitate the people around us, leading us to develop similar habits, behaviors, language, thoughts, thinking, standards, and character.
In 2018, a joint study by New York University and Virginia Tech found that just 13 minutes of meditation over eight weeks not only enhanced mood, but also improved focus, concentration, and working memory.
Six Natural Medicines to Upgrade Your Brain
Today, I’m going to share with you six natural medicines to upgrade your brain, intelligence, income, and impact. These medicines are easy, mostly free, and can have a significant impact on your brain health.
M – Meditation
Meditation is a powerful tool for the brain. It allows you to disconnect and reconnect with yourself, providing a pause to consolidate information and convert short-term memory into long-term memory. Research has shown that just 13 minutes of meditation a day for eight weeks can enhance mood, focus, concentration, and working memory. It can also decrease anxiety and improve emotional regulation. Make sure to schedule your meditation each day to reap these benefits.
E – Exercise
Exercise is another natural medicine for the brain. When you move your body, you create brain-derived neurotrophic factors (BDNF), which act as fertilizer for your brain. Research has shown that exercise enhances activity in the prefrontal cortex, leading to improved cognitive ability. Taking brain breaks throughout the day to move your body can help you overcome feeling stuck and enhance information retention and comprehension.
D – Diet
Your diet plays a crucial role in brain health. Your brain is an energy hog, requiring 20% of the nutrients in your body despite only making up 2% of your body mass. It also requires specific nutrients that differ from the rest of your body. Eating a brain-healthy diet can fuel your brain and improve its function. Nutrients like vitamin B12, folate, and zinc are essential for brain health and deficiencies in these nutrients can lead to depression, low mood, fatigue, cognitive decline, and irritability. On the other hand, eating nutritious foods can reduce inflammation, lower the risk of mental illness, and improve cognitive function.
S – Sleep
Sleep is a vital component of brain health. It is during sleep that your brain consolidates memories and repairs itself. Lack of sleep can impair cognitive function, attention, and memory. Make sure to prioritize quality sleep to support your brain’s optimal functioning.
R – Reading
Reading is an excellent exercise for the brain. It stimulates the mind, expands knowledge, and improves cognitive function. By reading regularly, you can enhance your brain’s processing abilities and boost your overall intelligence. Dedicate time each day to read and make it a habit.
X – Crosswords and Brain Games
Engaging in brain games and puzzles, such as crosswords, Sudoku, and memory exercises, can help keep your brain sharp and improve cognitive function. These activities challenge your brain, promoting neuroplasticity and preventing mental decline. Incorporate brain games into your routine to exercise your mind.
Remember, these natural medicines are easy to incorporate into your daily life and can have a profound impact on your brain health. Take the time to prioritize your brain’s well-being and enjoy the benefits of an upgraded mind.
You can control your mood, mind, and memory by the food you eat. It’s important to reduce processed food and sugar, as they are detrimental to the brain. Make wise decisions about what you eat every day.
Sleep is also crucial for brain health. Lack of sleep impairs memory, mental energy, problem-solving abilities, and overall brain function. Sleep helps consolidate short-term memory into long-term memory and can clean out beta amyloid plaque that leads to brain aging. Aim for at least seven hours of sleep per night to avoid adverse health problems.
Building positive relationships is essential for cognitive performance and brain health. Surround yourself with a positive peer group that encourages and challenges you. The people you spend time with influence your habits, behaviors, language, thoughts, and character.
There are also additional extras you can incorporate into your routine. Breathing exercises, getting grounded, staying hydrated, and getting sunlight are all beneficial for your brain. Cold and hot therapy, such as cold showers and sauna sessions, can reduce inflammation and reset your nervous system.
Remember, these choices don’t have to cost money, but they do require your focus and time. Every morning, you have the opportunity to make these choices and prioritize your brain health.