Stress is becoming a real part of our lives these days. People trying to cope with their problems at college, work and even at home.
As you age it is important to pay attention to your gray matter if your aim is to represent clear mind, perfect memory and ability to concentrate quickly. People got used to the informational flow, million ideas, pictures, and feelings which may appear at once. It comes as no surprise that when you want to concentrate on your work this fullness turns out to be emptiness. No panic! The scientific phenomenon known as neuroplasticity proves that a human brain has an incredible ability to reshape itself according to the new changes and experiences.
How to improve memory and concentration without wasting your time on reading special books and learning sophisticated algorithms? Check out these 10 simple exercises for boosting brain strength at any age.
#1 Lotus Pose from Yoga
Yogic philosophy suggests that practicing yoga is a perfect way to improve concentration. Just sit straight, cross-legged, close your eyes and relax. Stay focused on your breathing. Sit until you feel completely at peace. That’s it! Practice at least 5 minutes. You can also try other yoga poses and meditation technics. The main point is to find a place where you can be alone and undisturbed.
#2 “Name That Color” Test
This exercise is also called the Stroop Test. It is used in neuropsychological evaluations to measure mental flexibility and can help to train your attention. You should quickly say aloud what color you see in every word you read. Go from left to right, from top to down. Train until you do it without mistakes. Ready, set, go.
#3 Read Long Stuff Slowly
A recent study proved that one in four read no books. Only 5% of readers who start an article online will finish it. How is it possible to pay attention if you’re scrolling all the time from one website to another? If you are limited in time to read books, just make a rule to read one or two long articles a week.
# 4 Double Benefit from Food
Take a fruit, an orange, banana or any other fruit and hold it in your hands. Examine it carefully, while keeping your whole attention focused on it. Take note of its color, shape, smell and sensation it gives you when you touch it. Do not let yourself to be carried away by irrelevant thoughts.
Actually, after doing this exercise you can use a blender and prepare some brain-boosting, delicious and health-giving drinks – smoothies. Moreover, you can build your own well-balanced diet by taking small steps.
#5 Pomodoro Technique
You should use a timer to break down work into 25 minutes in length, separated by short breaks. Chose a task that you need to accomplish. It could be anything from studying to an office task. Set the timer to 25 minutes. Focus on accomplishing the task for these 25 minutes trying to avoid all distractions like buy drugs online checking your profile notifications or talking on the cellphone. Take a break. The exercise is based on the idea that frequent breaks can improve mental agility.
#6 Exercise your body
Physical exercise helps your brain stay sharp. Oxygen comes to your brain more intensive and helps to prevent disorders such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease or memory loss. Physical activity stimulates new neuronal connections. Regular exercises improve cognitive function, slow down the aging process and help to be focused on the life goals.
#7 Laugh before learning
Researchers at Loma Linda University showed one group of adults in their 60s and 70s a short comedy while the other group watched a humorless TV program. As a result, those who watched the comedy had lower levels of cortisol which can impair learning and memory. The release of endorphins and dopamine will provide a sense of pleasure, so the act of laughter is the best start of your mental work.
#8 Use mnemonic device to improve memory
Associate a visual image with a word you need to remember. Use chunking for breaking a long list of numbers if you need to remember a phone number. Example: 555 765 990 instead of 555765990. Try to find new ways of learning and don’t forget to convert them into good habits.
#9 Breathe deeply
When you take a walk, concentrate on the odor of flowers and plants. See how many different kinds you can detect. Then try to sense only one. It helps to develop concentrated attention and control your mind.
#10 Planning before Doing
Always make a plan for whatever you are up to. Without a purpose, you are wasting your time. A day planner can help you keep track of activities and can also serve as a journal in which you write all things you would like to remember. Don’t forget to find time for your concentration exercises!
Lisa Griffin is blogger and freelance writer for Edubirdie whose lifestyle credo is “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.”
*The information and views set out in this article are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the opinions and standpoints of Mladiinfo International. Responsibility for the information and views expressed in the text/pictures/video therein lies entirely with the authors.