As we age, it becomes just as important to exercise the brain by learning, as it does to get regular physical exercise. We can all agree that we want our brains to remain healthy well into our golden years and would love to prevent Alzheimer’s and dementia, when possible.
The good news is that our neurons actually strengthen when we challenge the mind. The big question is…How do we keep our mind active?
It can be as simple as taking a new route to work, or as intense as taking a course at a local learning center or university. The point is to try something new - put your brain to work, instead of just going through the motions with what's familiar.
Here are a few suggestions to get you started:
- Take a dance class with your favorite partner
- Pick up a new sport - pickleball is all the rage right now
- Read a book about a new topic or perspective
- Go to a "paint and sip" with friends
- Join a sushi making class
- Learn a new language for your next trip abroad
- Pick up gardening - terrariums are fun to build
- Work on a 1,000 piece puzzle with a friend over dinner
- Learn to play guitar or any new instrument
- Sing a new song
I recently noticed that I’ve lost the art of a handwritten note. So, I am re-learning cursive writing through a hand-lettering workbook. It’s this type of mental exercise that will keep me sharp and interested.
The key is to find something that you’ll enjoy learning and just go for it.
