KATHY’S HOME & GARDEN TIPS – IMPROVE BRAIN POWER
1. Smart Juice.
Blueberries have more antioxidants
than any other fruit. Naturally grown rather than cultivated berries have even
more. Blueberries have anthocyanins
that protect blood vessels from free radicals, improve neuron signals and
increase blood flow to the brain. Wild blueberry juice is available at Walmart
and online.
2. Sprinting
boosts blood levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF).
This is like "miracle grow" for the brain, keeping neural cells growing and
functioning. Mix brief, high intensity sprints into any mild aerobic activity
at least once a week. Two sprints three minutes long is sufficient.
3. Surfing the
web reduces mind decline by stimulating the frontal, temporal and cingulated centers
of the brain. This improves your complex reasoning and decision-making skills. This mental
cross training happens when you're reading and making decisions about where to
look and what to click on next.
4. Meditate
more often. People who meditate more often have frontal cortices that are
larger, making it easier for them to pay attention longer. Plus parts of their
cerebral cortices are thicker, meaning their thoughts and emotions are more in
tune.
5. Take a nap.
Napping causes a chemical reaction in the brain that clears out circuits so new
information can come in. Any nap length, even 10 minutes, will improve focus.
6. Draw the number 8 in the air. This
exercise activates both hemispheres of the brain at the same time, improving
communication between them. It's especially effective during times of stress,
because it helps the brain send signals along new circuits. This creates and
reinforces new neural connections. Extend one arm in front of you and use your
finger to draw a figure 8 starting in the middle. Do 3 times with each hand,
then with both hands clasped together. Repeat until you feel a shift in your
thinking.
KATHLEEN WEAVER-ZECH & DEAN'T TEAM
CHICAGO
