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11 Simple Ways to Improve Your Memory
By Todd | December 4, 2007
Because the neurons in our brain responsible for memory lose elasticity over time, we tend to forget things much easier as we age.
Although this is an unfortunate reality we all face, there are a myriad of lifestyle activities you can engage to slow this degenerative process.
Here are 11 effective methods you can integrate into your life to maintain a great memory for as long as possible:
1. Sleep Well
Consistently sleeping 7-8 hours a night will drastically increase your memory. During sleep, the brain appears to firm up memories of newly acquired information. The most effective “sleepers” experience the full spectrum of nocturnal cycles, and relaxation techniques before bed time can help really help your cognitive (and memory) capacity. During the day, a quick nap can be the impetus for a solution to a problem you have been working.
2. Cross-pollinate Your Interests
Having diverse interests, and constantly trying new things, is a fantastic way to keep the mind sharp and fertile. Neurons that connect to existing neurons give you fresh perspective and ability to use knowledge in a variety of new ways.
3. Teach Others
Teaching implants knowledge in your brain in a different manner than regular learning, and is excellent practice for increasing memory (it also helps if you are genuinely motivated to share the knowledge)!
4. Use Acronyms and Other Mnemonic Devices
Mnemonics are essentially tricks for remembering information. Some tricks are so effective that proper application will let you recall loads of mundane information years later. This one recommendation can vastly improve your memory and effectiveness!
5. Write About It
An effective way to increase memory capacity is to write about the things you want to remember. This will create oxygenated blood flow to the areas of your brain that are responsible for your memories and literally exercises them! Keep a journal, write detailed emails, or start a blog to improve your capacity to memorize.
6. Take a Break
Changing physical or mental perspective is a wonderful way to lighten the invisible stress that occurs when you sit in one place too long. Taking a 5-15 minute break every hour during work sessions is more beneficial than non-stop study. It gives your mind time to relax and absorb information.
7. Listen to Music
Researchers have long shown that certain types of music are instrumental in recalling memories. Information learned while listening to a particular song or collection can often be recalled simply by “playing” the songs mentally.
Roughly 50-60% of the brain’s overall weight is pure fat, which is used as insulation for its billions of nerve cells. The better insulated a cell, the faster it sends messages and the speedier your thinking. Therefore eating foods with a healthy mix of fats is essential for long-term memory. Fish (wild salmon, mackerel, anchovies especially) and dark leafy green vegetables are excellent choices.
9. Try Ginkgo Biloba
Ginkgo biloba is a natural supplement that has been used in China and other countries for centuries and has been reputed to reverse memory loss. It’s also suggested by some health practitioners to be a highly effective mood enhancer and is worth trying if you experience memory problems.
10. Stretch
The brain accounts for only 2% of the body’s weight, but accounts for 15% of its blood flow, and regular stretching (and exercise) keeps the brain’s arteries open and unclogged. Making a habit of stretching can also lead to increased energy, greater flexibility and a more relaxed attitude which all lead to better long-term memory!
11. Collaborate
Interaction with other humans fires a different set of neurons than working alone, and collaboration can vastly increase your memory. Make a habit of joining forces at work and in your personal life to keep the brain fruitful!
We will all experience a degree of memory loss as we get older. By implementing a few of the practices described in this article, you can inhibit a more rapid decline in memory. Give them a try!
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Topics: Productivity, Other Personal Growth, Alternative and Holistic Healing, Health |
Nice article Todd. After a few years of being “not so nice” to my brain in various ways, I now realize the importance having a good memory.
I started using ginkgo biloba on your suggestion and it is going well.
Also, as a self improvement blogger I can attest to the fact that teaching & writing are a great way to improve your memory.
Posted by: Peter on December 4th, 2007 at 10:44 amI think you mean 12 simple ways:
12. Exercise!
Great article–I really enjoyed it.
Posted by: Kevin @ Change Your Tree on December 4th, 2007 at 11:00 amReally great ideas! I have always had a problem with remembering names, no matter how many different techniques I have tried. It is quite frustrating to have such a mental block. I am a firm believer that most of our “handicaps” are all in our head, but this one has been difficult for me to overcome thus far.
Some of your recommendations are new to me, so I will definitely give them a try. A follow up article on your using acronyms and other mnemonic devices would be great!
Keep up the amazing articles!
www.JuiceofChampions.com
Posted by: Brad Baggett on December 4th, 2007 at 11:07 pmGood thoughts. I’d never heard of the benefits of 8 and 9. Thanks!
Terry L. Sumerlin
Posted by: Terry L. Sumerlin on December 5th, 2007 at 4:51 pmThe Barber-osopher
Author/Motivational Speaker
Thanks for all the great comments guys….I am glad the article hot home for you!!
Posted by: Todd on December 5th, 2007 at 4:59 pmTodd
Beautiful article i will have to send this to my mom.
Posted by: vladi on December 10th, 2007 at 9:48 pmThanks Vladi…I hope your mom gets something good out of it
Posted by: Todd on December 11th, 2007 at 11:34 am[…] http://www.wethechange.com/11-simple-ways-to-improve-your-memory/ […]
Posted by: Develop a Photographic Memory | Photographic Memory on December 28th, 2007 at 12:05 pmGood tips. We often forget how impotant sleep is to our brain functions.
Posted by: Ralph on June 21st, 2008 at 9:59 amRead
Posted by: Jebet on January 6th, 2009 at 4:58 amin my opinien meditation is also neccesary
Posted by: nitesh on January 19th, 2009 at 4:15 amI read ur Article carefully, its really Good practice to improve Memory
Posted by: sumit on April 20th, 2009 at 10:10 amI Want to use Ginkgo Biloba…….
Will u plz tell me dt, Is it avilable in India & its indian name or other synonyms????
Awaiting in ur response……
Thank you so much for providing all these information. I wanted to use Ginkgo Biloba….. but is it available in Kenya, if yes what is the local name here.
Kindly reply because i am really in need.
Posted by: Jane on May 7th, 2009 at 3:17 amJane, I am not sure if it is in Kenya, but you can SURELY order it online and have it delivered…? Is that a possibility for you? I would Google Ginkgo Biloba and give it a try
Posted by: Todd on May 8th, 2009 at 11:44 amTodd
These all sound great. Went out and bought Ginkgo Biloba today. Will certainly try the rest.
Posted by: Ken on July 5th, 2009 at 8:42 pm