15 tips to improve your memory
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
Everyone can take steps to improve their memory, and with time and practice most people can gain the ability to memorize seemingly impossible amounts of
information. Whether you want to win the World Memory Championships, ace
your history test, or simply remember where you put your keys, this article
can get you started. Scientists believe that exercising your brain can
create a ‘cognitive reserve’ that will help you stay sharp as you age.
1. Convince yourself that you do have a good memory that will improve.
Too many people get stuck here and convince themselves that their
memory is bad, that they are just not good with names, that numbers just
slip out of their minds for some reason. Erase those thoughts and vow to
improve your memory. Commit yourself to the task and bask in your
achievements ? it’s hard to keep motivated if you beat yourself down every
time you make a little bit of progress.
2. Keep your brain active.
The brain is not a muscle, but regularly “exercising” the brain
actually does keep it growing and spurs the development of new nerve
connections that can help improve memory. By developing new mental
skills? especially complex ones such as learning a new language or learning
to play a new musical instrument? and challenging your brain with puzzles and
games you can keep your brain active and improve its physiological
functioning.
3. Exercise daily.
Regular aerobic exercise improves circulation and efficiency
throughout the body, including in the brain, and can help ward off the
memory loss that comes with aging. Exercise also makes you more alert and
relaxed, and can thereby improve your memory uptake, allowing you to take
better mental “pictures.”
4. Reduce stress.
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