Simple Habits to Exercise Your Brain and Improve Memory
Sally Davis, RN, MSN
3 min read
In my work teaching Memory Training classes at Amazing Place, I find that people of every age are looking for innovative, evidence-based ways to improve their memory. If you’ve ever forgotten where you put your glasses, or have walked into a room to discover you don’t know why you went there in the first place, then you’re not alone. Memory lapses can be the result of an overtaxed or distracted brain or a result of the normal aging process.
Healthy Aging
- Exercise
- Stress reduction
- Nutrition
- Memory enhancement strategies
Memory Training techniques, once you know them, can easily become part of your daily routine. Think of them as cues or tricks to jog your memory. A few of the basics include:
1. Pay Attention
This sounds easy, but in our world of multi-tasking, it’s harder than you might think. Try leaning into your senses as you focus on specific elements of what you are seeing, hearing, or smelling at that moment in time. You’ll find it requires you to slow down and be present so you can remember details.
2. Form Visual Images
Create an image in your mind of what you want to remember. For example, carefully notice what someone is wearing — colors, shoes, jewelry, belt, etc. It could be a friend, family member or maybe the clerk at the grocery store. Fix it in your mind. Then test yourself later that day.
3. Attach an Association or Emotion
Link two or more things together in a memorable way. As you learn someone’s name, look at their face and think about what their name sounds like or means. Next, associate the name or what it sounds like. For example, Rosa has rosy cheeks. When you meet Mr. Burger, picture him eating a hamburger.
Memory Habits
Forgetting things is often because we have poor memory habits. A little discipline goes a long way. Practice tips include:
Practice Tips
- Pick a regular time in the morning to review your plans for the day. A daily calendar can be a huge help.
- When you first think about something, do it. If you wait for later, chances are you might forget it.
- Review important information within 24 hours of first seeing or hearing it as forgetting occurs within that timeframe of learning something new.
- Rehearse or study new information for a short time daily.
Our memory muscle, our brain, needs to be challenged and exercised just like any other muscle to stay as healthy as possible. Whether you’re 35 or 75, don’t let your memory play tricks on you. Instead, take advantage of resources like Memory Training to stay engaged and aware of the wonderful world that surrounds us.