Your brain is your most valuable asset. Just like your body, it thrives when treated with care, consistency, and intention. That’s why every June, we recognize Brain Health Awareness Month; a time to educate, empower, and take action to protect our cognitive well-being.
Whether you want to stay mentally sharp as you age, reduce your risk of Alzheimer’s disease or dementia, or improve your focus and memory, it starts with daily habits. The Alzheimer’s Association offers 10 tips to sharpen your mind.
Let’s take a closer look!
10 Healthy Habits for Your Brain
1. Break a Sweat
Physical activity increases blood flow to the brain and encourages the growth of new brain cells. Aim for regular aerobic exercise like walking, cycling, or swimming to keep both your body and mind strong.
2. Hit the Books
Lifelong learning is key. Challenge your brain with new skills! Take a class, learn a language, or pick up a musical instrument. Staying mentally active strengthens connections between brain cells.
3. Fuel Up
Eat a heart-healthy, brain-friendly diet rich in leafy greens, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats like omega-3s.
4. Catch Some Zzzs
Sleep isn’t just rest, it’s repair. Adults need 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night. Poor sleep has been linked to memory issues and a higher risk of cognitive decline.
5. Take Care of Your Mental Health
Depression, anxiety, and chronic stress can impair brain function. Take time to care for your emotional well-being through therapy, mindfulness, or self-care practices.
6. Buddy Up
Stay socially active. Connecting with friends, family, neighbors may help ward off loneliness and cognitive decline. Even a short phone call or walk with a friend can make a big difference.
7. Challenge Yourself
Engage in puzzles, card games, or brain teasers that challenge your memory and logic skills. Mix it up to keep your brain engaged in new ways.
8. Protect Your Head
Wear helmets when biking or playing sports. Always use seat belts. Even mild head injuries can increase the risk of future cognitive issues, so it’s important to protect yourself.
9. Control Risk Factors
Manage conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol. These are not only heart risks, they’re brain risks too. Regular checkups and healthy living are key.
10. Quit Smoking
Smoking increases the risk of cognitive decline. Quitting can have immediate and long-term benefits for your brain health regardless of your age.
Your Next Step: Take Control of Your Brain Health
It’s never too early or too late to start caring for your brain. At the Active Marion Project (AMP), we help individuals just like you build sustainable habits that protect and promote cognitive wellness. Whether you’re looking to optimize your brain health today or reduce risks down the road, our team is here to guide you.
Book a session with AMP today to learn how these brain-healthy habits can be customized for your lifestyle and goals.
