Cognitive skills or functions involve your brain. They consist of your ability to problem solve, think, apply reason to a variety of situations, retain information, learn new information or skills, make decisions, and focus on what you are doing. While your cognitive skills and brain functions are essential, they become a prominent area of concern as you age. To help maintain a sharp mind both now and for years to come, try these constructive tips.
Complete Word Games
There is nothing quite like a word game. It makes you think and yet it is a fun way to pass the time. Consider the time-tested crossword. On the surface, it is a grid of black and white squares with corresponding numbers and clues. When you try to solve those clues, you use your brain and critical thinking skills to fit the words into the puzzle spatially and in concert with their horizontal or vertical counterparts.
To complete a crossword puzzle, you may need to be versed in world geography, pop culture, or history. Facts are important, as is the proper spelling of each word. Word games challenge you to dig deep into your brain to remember what you have learned and apply it enjoyably. When an answer evades you, a word game clue will propel you to use your higher-functioning skills to research and solve the answer.
Read a Variety of Books
Books are said to be a gateway to the world. They are a pathway to your mind, as well. Books can excite and inform you while offering you an escape from the everyday or insight into a realm you were previously unaware of. A byproduct of reading is that it improves your cognition, memory, and can aid in getting a proper night’s rest.
If you enjoy one particular genre of books, such as an enthralling murder mystery plot that you must entangle as you make your way through the tome, consider adding something new to your repertoire. Try reading historical fiction or go straight for the classics. Different categories of books tend to read differently, use specific word patterns or cadences, and employ vastly divergent vocabulary altogether. This encourages you to learn new words or use them in a new way while exploring something new to you.
Learn a New Language
Languages are portals into another culture and a way to connect with an entirely new group of people. Through the power of learning a new language, you experience everything from delicious food to family experiences and traditions through a new lens. In addition, when learning a new language, you better comprehend the history or cultural nuances of the geographic locations where the language is spoken. This affords you a greater understanding and empathy for the world around you.
The act of learning a second language, or even a third or fourth one is immensely beneficial for your cognitive functions. Once you have learned the dynamics of a second language learning another is much easier. It also helps you improve your memorization skills and retain information longer. Another byproduct is increased vocabulary and more accurate sentence structures within your native language. This is due to your paying increased attention to the word sequences and translations into the new language you are learning, which will prove to be a benefit in any language.
Watch this video for insight on why you should learn a new language that goes beyond just improving your overall language proficiency.
Write Down Your Thoughts
Writing is both a creative endeavor and a way to work your brain to improve cognition. It is a tool you can use to process the information mulling around in your mind and actively place that content onto the paper before you. As you write, your brain works through your thoughts and ideas to form them into coherent sentences and provide clarity for your feelings.
The act of writing can provide a cathartic sense of stress relief that is beneficial for your overall mental and physical health. Make it a part of your daily life by starting a journal to jot down your thoughts and feelings. Incorporate this task into your routine upon waking up in the morning or just before bed each night.
Now that you have some effective ways to help improve your brain health and cognitive functions, you can pick one to get started. Do not stop there, however, keep trying new things, innovating and expanding on old ideas, and never stop learning. Keep your mind sharp and open to new ideas by playing games and entertaining yourself. Improving your brain can be fun and beneficial.
