7 Keys to a Healthy Brain for Life

As you probably know, changes in cognition (memory, information processing, etc…) are strongly correlated to aging.  Aging well is driven in part by genetics but also by how well we look after our brain and body. So why do some people stay cognitively sharp throughout their life while others don’t? To answer this question, we’ve evaluated people who remain active physically and mentally and looked at the science of aging.  

Our body is complex and goes through numerous changes from birth to death.  In order to function properly, we must stay active, eat and sleep well, manage stress and find meaning in life. These requirements match the world’s longest-living people that live in the blue zones.

Science shows that those who live a mentally, socially and physically stimulating life are less likely to come down with serious brain health issues.  

Many of life’s challenges keep us sharp!  Neuroscientist and aging researcher, Prof Mark P. Mattson said that “Regular intellectual challenges are critical for brain development and a successful career, and recent findings suggest that intermittent exercise and energy restriction can further enhance and then sustain the functional capabilities of the brain during aging.”

When faced with inactivity as is so common in our modern-day life, our brains adaptively reduce capacity as part of an energy-saving strategy, leading to age-related brain atrophy.  So how do we age well cognitively? Research shows: 

1. Physical Exercise is the Best Exercise for Your Brain 

People living in Blue Zones people don’t do triathalons or join Crossfit gyms. Instead, they live in environments that constantly challenge them into moving without thinking about it. Jeanne Calment rode her bike till she was 100, and lived in a second-story apartment until she was 110.

2. Don’t Eat Too Much & Eat a Lot of Veggies

A healthy diet varies by geography, culture and individual.  What sets those who live the longest apart is not the trendy diet but the absence of refined processed foods.  The best diet for longevity and the brain is the Mediterranean-style. 

3. Sleep More

Our biological rhythms are determined by the rising and setting of the sun. Modern-day life with its artificial lighting late at night, alarm clocks, tv and smart phones in bed interfere with our natural sleep patterns. Sleep is overlooked and underappreciated. Sleep deprivation impacts cognition, mood, memory, and learning, and may lead to serious brain issues down the road.
Make sleep a priority, not a luxury. 

4. Challenge Your Mind

Research studies show that people who stay mentally engaged in life and constantly challenge themselves to step out of their comfort zone have reduced risk of serious brain health issues. 

Traditional board games chess and checkers) and cross word puzzles are best for the brain but innovative on line games can also challenge the brain.  

5. Find Your Place of Calm

Do you remember the beer commercial “Find your beach?” Well there is something to that. Not all stress is bad, but chronic stress, especially life events that are out of our control, can have unhealthy effects. The key to managing stress is to find ways to improve your perceived ability to cope with whatever life throws your way. Take up stress relief practices such as deep breathing, prayer and meditation. These techniques will help you find peace amid the chaos of life.

6. Stay Connected With Family & Friends

Being socially connected to other people protects against stress and challenges our cognitive abilities. When you are socializing, you are thinking, feeling, sensing and reasoning which are all part of your cognitive functions.  

7. Find Your Meaning & Purpose

With purpose and meaning comes positive emotions such as love, compassion, and appreciation. These emotions dampen stress and support a healthy brain throughout life. There are possibly many ways to find meaning in life. Blue Zones residents are members of faith communities and find meaning and purpose through spirituality.