More BrainTips

Here are a few more brain fitness tips:

#8 - The task: Practice throwing and catching a ball up in the air. If you're good at it, take up juggling.

The reason: People who master these kinds of sensory-guided movement activities can hone their brains' visual, tactile and hand-eye coordination responses, with widespread positive impacts for the brain

#9 - The task: Find an activity you like to do by yourself—such as completing a crossword puzzle or knitting—and take it to the next level. See if by concentrating and giving more effort to the activity you can succeed better or more quickly.

The reason: There is limited value in working at a game or exercise that you can perform without paying close attention. It is important to always strive to take it up a notch to a higher and more demanding level, where you re-engage the brain's learning machinery.

#10 - The task: If you're right-handed, use your left hand for daily activities (or vice-versa). Start with brushing your teeth left-handed, and practice until you have perfected it. Then try to build your way up to more complex tasks, such as eating.

The reason: This is an exercise in which you know what you're supposed to achieve, but must do it in a new and demanding learning context. Doing such an activity can drive your brain to make positive changes. Think of millions of neurons learning new tricks as you finally establish better control of that other hand!

#11 - The task: Add fish—especially fatty fish like salmon—to your diet.

The reason: Studies suggest that a diet rich in fish can improve cognitive function. Cold-water fish, like sardines, anchovies, salmon, and trout are the most beneficial. It's important to avoid fish that are high in mercury, like sharks and swordfish, as that can be bad for the brain.

#12 - The task: Brain health is another reason to get on your bicycle, to the swimming pool or wherever else you like to exercise your body.

The reason: New research indicates that exercise has positive benefits for the hippocampus, a brain structure that is important for learning and memory. It can even help your brain create new cells.

#13 - The task: Take a walk on a cobblestone path.

The reason: Scientists believe that walking on uneven surfaces like cobblestones improves the vestibular system of the inner ear, which plays a central role in balance and equilibrium. Cobblestone walking challenges the vestibular system in ways that improve its function, which translates into better balance- the key to preventing serious injuries.

#14 - The task: Get a good night's sleep. If you have trouble falling asleep, make sure your bedroom is quiet and dark, learn some deep relaxation techniques, and avoid alcohol and caffeine after 7 in the evening.

The reason: Scientists believe that our brains consolidate learning and memories during sleep. Studies have shown that people who don't sleep enough have more trouble learning new information, while sleeping well after learning something new helps the brain effectively put that information into long-term memory.

If you want to try some of the brain games, click here for a trial.

Monday night Marianne and I volunteered at the Ronald McDonald House in Charlotte as bingo callers!  We have recently gotten a new lead for Stampin' Up demonstrators at the House so we are hoping to do some more volunteering there.  They do bingo every Monday night and once a month, Stampin' Up demonstrators help the families in the House do cards or craft projects.  We made a few kids happy tonight when they won their bingo game and got to pick a prize.  It did my heart good!