Does your everyday routine leave your body — and your brain — a bit too drained?
We’re used to our lives being busy, but when your mental battery is always running low, it’s time to think about a recharge. Not sure how to boost your brainpower and energy? From basics to brain exercises, here’s all the info you need to be on top of your mental game.
About the Brain
When it comes to the body, people understand how important it is to engage their muscles, exercise regularly and stay healthy. But did you know that your brain requires the same kind of routine to stay sharp?
Your brain is made up of neural pathways and connections that contribute to five key cognitive functions:
- Attention
- Language
- Visual-spatial skills
- Memory
- Executive function
Like your body, your mind can become worn-out or “bored” with the same regular activity. To forge new neural pathways, avoid burnout and refresh your brain activity, you need to engage in “exercises” outside your regular routine — and that can include both challenges and relaxation activities.
How to Recharge Your Brain: Brain Health Tips and Exercises
Looking for unique ways to keep your brain recharging routine fresh? Try some of these health tips and brain exercises to boost your personal battery:
- Learn a new skill: It’s never to late to learn — and challenging yourself to new skills is one of the best ways to make sure your brain is always recharging. Teach yourself a musical instrument, take a foreign language class, cook a new meal, read a book on an interesting topic or educate yourself with YouTube videos. Learning something new will recharge your brain and refresh your spirit.
- Stretch it out: Your body and your brain are closely connected — which means your physical health has a strong effect on your mental health. As both a physical challenge and a meditative technique, therapeutic yoga is a great way to flex your brain and body. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned yogi, taking a class or practicing at home regularly will help you feel refreshed, relaxed and energized. Even if you don’t have time for a class, starting or finishing your day with a few stretches can make all the difference.
- Prioritize rest: Just like your body can’t constantly be active without food and rest, your brain can’t run on empty. If you don’t take the time to rest and recharge, your brain will burn out fast. Make sure to get at least seven hours of sleep each night, and don’t forget to rest your brain in other ways — like taking a long walk, watching a movie or taking a break from technology. Sometimes you need to stop thinking.
- Challenge yourself: When you want to amp up your brainpower, challenge yourself to problem-solving activities. Whether it’s a strategic video game, a debate or a time-sensitive goal you set for yourself, solving problems will help your brain engage in new outcomes and develop new pathways.
- Express yourself: Artistic expression is a unique way to soothe mental burnout, reduce stress and rejuvenate your brain. Record thoughts in your journal, write a song or break out your drawing and painting supplies. A little creativity can have marked mental benefits.
- Get organized: Whether it’s organizing your desk or planning out a more effective routine, practicing organizational skills challenges your brain and boosts your mental energy.
- Enjoy: Just like rest and a recharging routine, happiness is a huge part of your mental health. When you need a mental recharge, spend some time with friends or family, engage in an activity you enjoy, take a trip or do something else that’s fun. Positive energy is the best kind of energy — and we think your brain will thank you.
Contact 7 Summit Pathways
Maintaining your mental health can be a balancing act — especially if you’re struggling with addiction. When your addiction makes it impossible to recharge your mind, we know how to help. Contact 7 Summit Pathways or schedule an appointment to find your way to physical and mental Recovery today.