They say you can’t teach an old dog new tricks, but when it comes to the brain, scientists have found that this old saying isn’t true. The human brain possesses an incredible ability to adapt and change, even in old age.
This capability is known as neuroplasticity. With the right stimulation, the brain can form new neural connections, allowing our memory to function better. Admigram.com will share about simple exercises that keep our memory in shape.
How to properly train your memory
Use your imagination
© That’s Her Business / Unsplash
People who memorize large numbers often have a developed imagination. They visualize numbers as plants, animals, and inanimate objects. For example, they might see “2” as a swan, “8” as a symbol of infinity, “1” as a road signpost, “6” as a door lock, and so on. If you can’t immediately picture an image in your mind, draw it.
Stay active
Dance more, move around, engage in sports. This significantly improves blood circulation, including in the brain, and activates processes that facilitate perception, reproduction, and processing of information.
Get crafty
Don’t consider crafting activities as something only housewives or grandmothers do. Embroidery, weaving, knitting, beadwork—these actions stimulate memory and overall brain function.
Stimulate memory with scents
When you’re preparing for a presentation at work or an exam at university, surround yourself with scents that stimulate memory processes. Light an aroma lamp with essential oils like lemon, mint, or rosemary. It really works.
Focus on the memorization process
© Valentin Salja / Unsplash
If you want to remember something, focus on the process. Reflect on it, listen attentively, draw parallels with your life or existing knowledge. The more senses and thoughts are connected to the existing information, the higher the likelihood of truly memorizing something important.
Challenge your memory
If you forget something—a word’s meaning, a number from a report, a singer’s name, a friend’s phone number—before immediately reaching for your phone for the answer, try to recall the forgotten information on your own for at least a few minutes.
Practice regularly
Read fiction, then briefly write down the names of characters and the plot. Occasionally review your notes and try to recall what you read from memory. Solve crosswords and puzzles. This will not only train your memory but also make you appear knowledgeable among friends.
Forget about rote memorization
Memorizing something without understanding, without visualizing images, and without paraphrasing the text in your own words is not beneficial. Rote memorization won’t go beyond the “surface level” of memory.
Associate
© Diego PH / Unsplash
To remember the name of a person who was just introduced to you, mentally associate them with a well-known person who has the same name or with someone you know. Add something personal to the image: what they resemble, what you have in common, etc.
Eat right
Seafood, fish, eggs, grains, vegetable oil, and vegetables improve memory. Sometimes, even a small piece of chocolate can give a boost to a slightly tired brain.
Learn poems by beloved poets
Memorize one short poem per day (if it’s challenging, a four-line verse is enough) and organize poetry evenings for your friends or family at the end of the week. After just a few months, you’ll likely notice an improvement in your memory.
Learn foreign languages
Studying foreign languages is an effective way to improve memory. Moreover, it’s been scientifically proven that learning languages is an excellent prevention against cognitive decline.
image on top: Siora Photography / Unsplash
