Anytime’s a good time for being more tuned in, tapped in and turned on.
And this crisp, brand new year is definitely a good time to let go of an interesting 2020, and optimise our brain health.
So here are 5 top ways to do just that –
- Use it. Don’t Lose It – As with everything else, we were built to move.
That’s the reason we need to foster our brain’s neuroplasticity. 1 Like clay putty, it’s the same with our brains. We can remold and rebuild our brains based on the way we set up and respond to our daily activities.
We can do this by trialing new things.
I like to ask myself the question – ‘what are 3 ways that you’re encouraging your brain to work?’ Currently, I’m learning Street Latin Dancing, plus mandarin via a free app (and I’m up to 178 days straight of practicing, so that I’m starting to compound the results). And thirdly I’m playing classical guitar, which helps me practice coordination and music reading plus singing.
How about you?
- Physical Exercise – This one is an all around no brainer.
Physical exercise not only helps us manage stress, it’s also another stimulant for neuroplasticity, which helps us grow new synapses, as well as improve our blood flow and number of blood vessels to and around our brains.
- Eating as Best We Can – We all know that fresh is best (basically eating as little processed food as possible).
If you’re interested to hear the top foods for brain health, here they are on this video
- Avoid Tobacco – Across the board, this one is a no-go and includes avoiding secondary smoke.
- Avoid Abusing Alcohol – Alcohol has been linked to a variety of health challenges, including dementia.
So what are ways that work best for you personally, to help your brain grow?
Here’s to a spectacular and nourishing 2021 for you, and please do keep sharing your sunshine until I see you for this week’s #AliveWithFi 😉
1 Check this out -“research has firmly established that the brain is a dynamic organ and can change its architecture throughout life, responding to experience by reorganizing connections—in short, by wiring and rewiring itself. Scientists sometimes refer to the process of neuroplasticity as ‘structural remodeling of the brain.’” And it’s phenomenal: “The importance of neuroplasticity can’t be overstated: It means that it is possible to change dysfunctional patterns of thinking and behaving and to develop new mindsets, new memories, new skills, and new abilities.” This means that our brains have the ability to continually adapt, rebuild, and grow throughout our lives – how cool is this?
“What is Neuroplasticity?”Psychology Today, (2016)
Fi Jamieson-Folland D.O., I.N.H.C., is The LifeStyle Aligner. She’s an experienced practitioner since 1992 in Europe, Asia and New Zealand as a qualified Osteopath, Integrative Nutrition Health Coach, speaker, educator, writer, certified raw vegan gluten-free chef, and Health Brand Ambassador.
