In the pursuit of youthfulness, many focus on their physical appearance, but maintaining brain health is key. Dementia, a leading cause of disability in older adults, affected 57 million people globally in 2021, with almost 10 million new cases annually.
Dr. Prashant Katakol, a neurosurgeon in Bangalore, India, shares three simple habits to help keep your brain sharp and youthful.
Challenge your brain
To maintain a sharp, youthful brain, continuously use and challenge it. "The brain thrives on challenges. Learn a new skill, do a crossword puzzle, or try a different route each day," he shared on Instagram.
Research indicates that regularly doing crossword puzzles can delay memory decline by up to 2.5 years. Games like Sudoku or other mentally stimulating activities offer similar benefits.
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Games like Sudoku help maintain a sharp and youthful brain. Photo: The Science Explorer |
Games like Sudoku help maintain a sharp and youthful brain. Photo: The Science Explorer
Breathe correctly
Breathing exercises are not only simple but also crucial for maintaining brain health, according to Dr. Katakol.
"I teach my patients a simple yoga breathing exercise: sit comfortably, focus between your eyebrows, inhale for 4 counts, hold for 4 counts, and exhale for 4 counts," he shared. This technique helps calm the mind and rejuvenate the brain.
Mindfulness activities like meditation or yoga offer similar benefits, supporting mental sharpness and youthfulness.
Social connections
According to Dr. Katakol, the brain thrives on connections, and isolation can be detrimental. "Build your circle of connections. Isolation harms the brain like unhealthy food," he emphasized.
Calling friends, joining groups, or participating in book clubs not only improves mood but also enhances brain function. Spending time each day engaging in social activities is a simple way to keep your mind sharp and youthful.
"Keeping your mind active, controlling your breathing, and maintaining friendships are the prescription for a youthful brain," he said. The key is consistency – taking small steps like challenging your mind, practicing breathing exercises, and connecting socially each day to achieve maximum benefits.
My Y (Times of India)
