Use it or Lose it!

Tips for Healthy Memory Improvement
Memory loss: it's one of the most telltale signs of aging...or is it? Throughout the world, researchers, scientists and seniors are learning that memory does not necessarily decrease with age. According to Marge Engelman, author of Aerobics of the Mind: Keeping the Mind Active in Aging, recent studies have shown that older people can retain and retrieve the same amount of information under the same circumstances as younger people, albeit at a slower pace.

Engelman states, "It's the old 'use it or lose it' theme. Remember that the brain is a lot like a muscle. The more you use it and exercise it, the better it is." Biologically, it needs good oxygenation and sufficient blood flow to keep its billions of neurons healthy. Mentally, it requires vigorous mental exercise to keep it active and sharp. Our memory does not disappear as we age: rather, we do not continue to exercise it sufficiently. Here is some advice you can use to help sharpen your memory skills:

Physical exercise.
Physical exercise not only increases blood flow and oxygen to the brain, creating a healthy neural network, but it also reduces stress. Stress releases hormones that are deadly to brain cells, so reducing stress can actually improve your memory. Good physical health promotes good mental health.

Brain exercise.
The smallest efforts reap abundant rewards when you exercise your brain daily:

• Pay attention. Focusing on daily activities increases awareness and memory.
• Memorize. Memorization helps build new dendrites - the memory connectors within the brain. Memorize a poem from your favorite poet, or a family recipe.
• Think. Challenge yourself to a crossword puzzle or brainteaser. Brain exercises will improve your ability to retrieve and remember information.

Creative exercise. Varying your daily activities is very important for a strong and healthy brain. Make a list of 20 things that you can do that would be out of the ordinary or different, then do them. Cook a dish that you have never cooked before, or write a long letter to an old friend. Creativity in everyday life can be exhilarating, and it provides excellent mental stimulation.

The more we think, the more we grow. Do something to build your memory and to keep your mind sharp - today!