Mindfulness Matters !!

A healthy brain is the one which has the ability to perform all the mental activities of cognition, including the ability to learn and judge, understand, use language, and to memorise.

The human brain is the centre of command for nervous system of the  human body and makes it possible to think, experience emotion and perform complex functions. Maintaining a healthy brain and its optimal functioning is indeed essential for every facet of health and life.

Interventions for Nurturing the Brain

It is interesting to learn about certain activities which might keep brain toned for optimal functioning over a long period of time

1. Mental stimulation activities: According to research, activities which involve active use of brain cells  stimulate new connections between nerve cells and hence help the brain to generate new cells, development of neurological “plasticity” and building up a functional reserve which could restrict future cell loss. Mental stimulating activities includes reading, word puzzles, math problems, drawing, painting etc. could certainly help build up your brain.
2. Regular Physical activities: Research shows that using your muscle also helps your mind. Those who exercise regularly increase the blood vessels that carries oxygen-rich blood to the region of the brain that is responsible for thinking, learning and cognition. Exercise also stimulates the development of new nerve cells and increases the connections between the cells of brain. Exercise also helps to maintain blood pressure, improve cholesterol levels, control blood sugar balance which indirectly influence long term cognition outcomes
3. Balance diet: Balanced diet and nutrition can help your mind to function properly. Those who take balanced diet and include in their diet appropriate proportions of fruits, vegetables, fish, nuts, olive oil may have lower risk of development of cognitive impairment and dementia.
4. Keep a check on high blood sugar: Diabetes is the major risk factor for dementia and poor cognitive function. For a diabetic, keeping blood glucose under control may help to maintain healthy cognitive functions.
5. Achieve blood pressure targets: High blood pressure may increase the risk of cognitive decline. Ensure to maintain your blood pressure goals
6. Avoid Excess Alcohol: Consumption of excess of alcohol over long periods of time could damage the liver, lead to multiple B-complex deficiency and hamper cognitive functions.
7. Good Thoughts and Sound Sleep: People who are anxious, depressed, sleep-deprived, their cognitive function is found poor. Good mental health and restful sleep are off course important goals. Sleep helps to clear abnormal proteins in the brain and consolidate memory which boosts overall brain health. About 7-8 hours of sleep every night is considered necessary. Sleeplessness is harmful for your brain health. Getting sound sleep help for your brain health.
8. Build social networks: It is known that people with strong social ties are happier, lead more engaged and fulfilled lives, have lower risk of dementia and longer life expectancy.

Most global authorities define health as amalgamation of physical, mental, and social well-being. Mental and social well-being are often neglected due the lack of awareness and a taboo associated with discussion of such issues.  Healthy mind and healthy cognitive functioning  remain integral part of overall well-being. The key to a healthy life is having a healthy brain and mind; and healthy cognition is a critical aspect which connects the two.