Mind your brain: 6 ways to keep it healthy and happy

Your brain is the most complex organ of your body consisting of a whopping 86 billion neurons that form more than 100 trillion connections. This 3 pound (1.4 Kg) powerhouse is the ultimate command center where intelligence thrives, sensory information gets processed, bodily movements are initiated, and emotions are regulated. 

So, give your brain the care it deserves. Here’s how to improve brain power and kick off your journey

1. MAKE EXERCISE A DAILY PRIORITY

Studies show that regular exercise lowers your risk of developing neurodegenerative diseases such as Dementia and Parkinson’s; and also slows their progression once diagnosed. 
We recommend partaking in aerobics, strength training and Yoga…

• Aerobics improves your cognitive functioning, promotes the growth of new brain cells and increases blood flow to the brain.  

• Strength training is effective in enhancing your executive function and memory by increasing brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels.
  
• Dance, circuit training, pilates and agility drills are some other forms of exercise that can help you increase brain power, mood, and overall mental wellbeing. 

Also Read : Sleep Therapy Retreat to Beat Insomnia

2. MIND-BODY PRACTISES 

Embrace the ancient treasure of Yoga. Research shows that people who practice Yoga regularly have a thicker cerebral cortex (the part of the brain responsible for information processing) and hippocampus (the part of the brain involved in learning and memory). 

To elevate your mental wellness, integrate mindful practices such as Meditation and Deep Breathing exercises into your daily routine. 

• Practice Focused-attention Meditation:  It strengthens and prolongs your ability to concentrate. 

• Mindfulness Meditation: Be present with your thoughts and emotions. 
• Kirtan Kriya: Practicing this meditation for just 12 minutes a day can enhance your thinking, memory, attention, concentration, and focus. It also boosts brain function, energy levels, sleep quality, and lowers cortisol levels. 

Also Read: 8 Emotional & Spiritual Healing Therapies for Mental Healing

3. MENTAL STIMULATION 

In this age of ChatGPT and Gemini, make sure to engage in mentally stimulating activities that help you keep your brain active and also possibly delay the onset of cognitive decline. 

Mental stimulation promotes neuroplasticity, builds cognitive reserve, keeps your brain agile and reduces stress. 

Learn new skills, participate in brain exercises, spend your free time solving puzzles and playing brain-training games, regularly read books, articles, and journals, harness your creative skills, work on your critical thinking abilities, indulge in strategy games like chess and do memory exercises etc. 

Want to keep your edge? Learn how to increase brain power, or risk losing it.

4. FOOD FOR YOUR BRAIN!

Did you know, your brain is an energy-intensive organ and consumes about 20% of your body’s calories? So, make sure you nourish it well with a nutritious diet. 
Incorporate foods rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that not only nourish your brain but also protect it from oxidative stress and issues related to ageing.

Also Read: 5 Wellness Hacks to Unlock Longevity | Longevity Retreat

Brain-boosting foods that must be part of your daily diet include fatty fishes like salmon, trout, and sardines, blueberries, Broccoli, Pumpkin Seeds, dark chocolate, nuts, fruits rich in vitamin C, eggs and avocados etc. 

Also Read: 10 Reasons Why You Must Go For A Meditation Retreat In India

5. SOME MORE FOOD FOR YOUR BRAIN 

Incorporate nutritional supplements and natural herbs into your daily routine. 

They enhance cognitive function, slow down age-related cognitive decline, reduce stress, regulate moods, and address nutrient deficiencies.

Boost your brainpower and calm your mind with Atmantan Naturals’ Nutri Brain, a potent blend of herbs that improves the anxiety threshold, memory, focus and concentration.

Further elevate your brain health with Atmantan Naturals’ Omega 3 that fights inflammation, lowers oxidative stress, and protects your heart and brain. 

Also Read: De-stress With Yoga!

6. GOOD NIGHT’S SLEEP FOR GOOD BRAIN HEALTH

Sleep is essential for maintaining brain health and cognitive function.
Aim for 7-8 hours of quality sleep each night to keep your brain in top shape.

Avoid too much or too little sleep, as both can harm your cognitive function, raise the risk of neurological disorders, contribute to depression and anxiety, and negatively impact your physical and brain health. 

Dear reader, 

Remember, good brain health is a lifelong commitment. Make small, consistent changes in your daily routine and experience a profound impact on your cognitive functions over time. 

Nurture your brain with health and prevention for a better tomorrow!