Train your brain: 5 exercises to boost its function and memory

Never underestimate the power of workout for the brain! Here are 5 brain exercises that can improve focus and memory, keeping it young.
Brain power and meditation
Meditation can improve brain function and power, say studies. Image courtesy: Adobe Stock
Aayushi Gupta Published: 29 Dec 2022, 15:30 pm IST
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Without even realising it, we talk, lift, bend, dance, breathe, and do many other activities every day. Do you know how? Every single daily job you carry out is made possible by your brain! So how can brain fitness be neglected? Ladies, keep in mind that you may have a number of problems both mentally and physically if your brain is weak. These brain exercises are necessary to manage it and stop cognitive decline.

Why is brain fitness essential?

If you neglect your brain health, you may have a number of issues such as:

  • Cognitive decline
  • Difficulty in learning things
  • Higher risk of anxiety and depression
  • Brain may struggle to solve problem
  • Stress management can become tough
  • Trouble in concentrating
  • Brain fog
brain exercises
Stay active for better brain health. Image courtesy: Shutterstock

In order to find a way to boost brain health, Health Shots sought insights from fitness expert Mukul Nagpaul, Pmftraining, and Fit India Movement Ambassador. He believes that the following simple workouts can improve brain health.

Brain exercises to improve function and memory

“Exercises which are good for your heart are also good for your brain. But that doesn’t mean that you have to be a gym freak as you can do some movements at the comfort of your home,” says Mukul. A study published in the journal Frontiers in Psychiatry suggests that exercising can reduce depression symptoms, and can also increase the brain’s ability to change and improve.

Following are 5 exercises that boost brain health:

1. Just move

A sedentary lifestyle is associated with a decline in memory and brain function. By engaging in physical activity, you may reduce the likelihood of such impacts. You can dance as you listen to music, walk or squat while you watch TV, walk your pet, use the stairs instead of the elevator, and go for a morning walk to stay active. In fact, according to Mukul, “Mind games like Sudoku can undoubtedly enhance focus, thinking, and problem-solving abilities.”

brain exercises
Walking has many health benefits, for the young and old alike. Image courtesy: Shutterstock

2. Squat

To improve the health of your brain, you don’t need to be huffing and puffing and working out hard at the gym. It can be done at home with squats. While the squat is one of the best workouts for increasing strength and stability, it can also help enhance cognitive performance. It stimulates the production of happy hormones and results in the development of new brain cells. As a result, you might not experience mental health problems.

Also read: Wondering if you can stop your brain from ageing? Try these 5 tips

3. Aerobic exercise

Aerobic exercises include swimming, jumping, walking, and cycling. It’s no secret that aerobic exercise helps slow down the ageing process of the mind. Additionally, these workouts can enhance your mood, memory, immune system, cognitive function, and focus. They can strengthen existing neuronal connections in the brain and repair stress-related damage.

brain exercises
These cardio exercises are easy on the knees as well. Image courtesy: Shutterstock

4. Dance

One of the best brain exercises to improve mood and mental health is dance. Dancing may aid in lowering the risk of dementia, according to numerous research, one of which was published in the New England Journal of Medicine. Additionally, it stimulates brain regions related to rhythm and balance.

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5. Breathing exercises

Breathing exercises have tons of benefits for your body and mind. You can use it to unwind, enhance muscle performance, lower blood pressure, control heart rate, and increase blood oxygen levels. Practice deep, slow breathing for the benefit of your brain. Regular practice of this exercise may help you focus better, have a better working memory, and lessen mental fog.

 

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About the Author

Aayushi Gupta is a health writer with a special interest in trends related to diet, fitness, beauty and intimate health. With around 2 years of experience in the wellness industry, she is connected to leading experts and doctors to provide our readers with factually correct information. ...Read More

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