HEALTH REPORT
brain drain Beat
F orget those memory myths that failing brain power is a sign of ageing. Try these effective ways to boost mental muscle. Lifestyle, attitude, exercise, games and supplements that support brain health can go a long way towards preserving memory. Even better: it is never too late to start building your defences. Keep fit
wellbeing. Exercise ensures the brain gets sufficient oxygen to operate optimally; it may also boost production of nerve growth factor, a chemical that triggers the development of new brain cells. Aerobic exercise is especially important for maintaining brain health because it helps prevent hardening of the arteries, which has benefits for the brain as well as the heart. Train your brain Memory-building exercises stimulate your ability to solve problems, think laterally and break down your approach to tackling complex tasks. In particular,
of new neurotransmitters and improving your ability to acquire new information and learn new skills; it also provides a break from more repetitive daily tasks, such as housework or doing accounts. Work to live Research shows that continuing to be actively involved in the work force is key to maintaining mental health as well as brain capacity. Whether you work full-time, part- time, or decide that now is the stage in life where you would like to set up your own business, the key is to find something that is fulfilling, so that you are able to fill your days with activities that provide initiative and problem-solving. Or, commit to taking up a mind-challenging activity, such as a course of study, painting, playing a musical instrument or engaging in another creative hobby.
research has shown that older people who were givenword- recall tests demonstrated a three-fold increase in the number of words they could remember after just four sessions. Crossword puzzles, chess, Sudoku,Scrabble,bridge, jigsaws and mah jong all have similar beneficial effects. Any form of stimulation feeds the brain, encouraging the development
Mens sana in corpore sano is Latin for “a healthy mind in a healthy body”, and and those ancient Greeks knew a thing or two about maintaining a sharp mental edge. Staying fit - and, in particular, boosting lung function - is essential to mental, psychological and emotional
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ISSUE 58 • 2020
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