As we age, our brains may slow down and experience memory loss. But what if there was a way to delay or even prevent this decline? Research tells us that by making certain lifestyle choices, we can preserve optimal brain health and protect ourselves from cognitive decline or Alzheimer’s disease. So don’t worry – it’s not too late to take control of your brain health.
Our team at TMS Washington has put together our 5 top tips to keep your brain in tip-top shape, so read on!
Improve your sleep hygiene.
Getting a good night’s sleep is crucial for our overall well-being, and it’s not just about the number of hours we spend in bed. It’s also about the consecutive hours of sleep and the quality of that sleep. If you struggle to get 7-8 hours of uninterrupted sleep and seldom wake up feeling refreshed, work on your sleep hygiene by establishing a consistent sleep schedule and creating a soothing sleep environment.
If you continue struggling with fragmented sleep, it’s worth talking to your doctor to determine whether a sleep disorder like sleep apnea interferes with your ability to get a good night’s rest.
Challenge yourself mentally.
If you’re looking to challenge yourself mentally, puzzles like Sudoku, crossword puzzles, and brain teasers are great ways to give your mind a workout. Additionally, reading is an excellent way to stimulate your brain and engage your imagination. While it may be tempting to zone out in front of the TV screen after a long day, choosing to read instead can help you expand your vocabulary and comprehension skills.
Socialize with others.
Not only is spending time with others enjoyable and fulfilling, but it also provides various cognitive and emotional benefits. Socializing with friends and family stimulates your mind and keeps it engaged, which can help improve memory and boost your overall mood. So, prioritize spending time with those who bring you joy and fulfillment, whether it’s a phone call, video chat, or in-person gathering.
Eat a balanced diet.
Eating a nutrient-rich, plant-based diet is one of the best ways to protect against cognitive decline. Specifically, the Mediterranean diet has been praised for promoting cognitive health and reducing the risk of dementia, as this diet emphasizes whole foods such as healthy fats packed with omega fatty acids, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Incorporating these foods into your eating routine gives your body the necessary nutrients and antioxidants to maintain a sharp mind as you age.
Get active.
If you want to support a healthy brain as you age, studies show that getting active might just do the trick. Regular aerobic activity can increase blood flow to the brain, reducing age-related memory decline. But don’t worry; you don’t need to be a gym rat or marathon runner to reap the benefits. Simple activities like brisk walking, swimming, or cycling can all be effective for maintaining brain
health. So why not lace up those sneakers or hop on a bike – your brain (and body) will thank you in the long run!
Start Boosting Your Brain Health Today!
Brain health is essential to protect us from disease, memory loss, and cognitive decline as we age. While we can’t stop ourselves from getting older, we can consciously improve our brain’s function through lifestyle changes.
Of course, our mental health plays an important role in staying mentally sharp. Depression, in particular, can significantly impair not only brain health and cognitive abilities but the motivation to make brain-boosting choices.
Fortunately, treatments are available to address depression, such as Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) therapy, which is effective in treating depression and promoting brain health.
If you’re struggling with depression, let us help reduce this impact through TMS Therapy. Contact us at TMS Washington for more information on ways to stay healthy and support your brain’s longevity!
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