Maintaining Sharpshooting Cognitive Functions: 3 Steps to Remember
In the quest to enhance memory and brain function, psychologist and neuroscientist Christian Jarrett offers three evidence-based strategies from his work, as detailed in the "BBC Science Focus" magazine. These methods, when incorporated into daily life, can stimulate cognitive functions and support memory improvement.
Firstly, make yourself laugh by using humor. Humor triggers positive emotions and cognitive engagement, aiding in memory retention and mental agility. To apply this strategy in learning, one can use funny acronyms, mnemonic devices, or give items amusing names. For instance, the music class mnemonic "Every Day Should Get Rid Of Fat" (for the musical notes E, D, G, A, B, C) can aid in memory retention.
Secondly, ditch your sat-nav and navigate without GPS. Navigating without electronic assistance forces your brain to actively map the environment, improving spatial memory and problem-solving skills. Starting by not using the navigation system for trips in your local area can help rebuild spatial memory skills.
Lastly, get sociable and engage in regular social interaction. Interaction with others challenges your brain to process social cues, language, and emotions, which supports cognitive function and memory consolidation. Regular social interaction helps maintain mental sharpness. Meeting with friends, volunteering, or joining a club are examples of varied social activities that can help maintain mental sharpness. Combining regular social activities with learning a new language in a class can aid in memory retention.
Studies from the 1970s showed that learning material presented with humor was better remembered by students. The brain's reward center is activated when we find something funny, which can also aid in memory retention. This biochemical response occurs as neurotransmitters like dopamine are released in the brain, which can support memory retention and consolidation.
In summary, incorporating humor, navigation, and social interaction into daily life can effectively train your brain and memory. These strategies, when used consistently, can stimulate cognitive functions, support memory improvement, and potentially lead to enhanced mental agility.
Consistently utilizing humor and laughter in daily activities can stimulate the brain's reward center, releasing dopamine and promoting memory retention and consolidation. Engaging in regular health-and-wellness activities like fitness and exercise, such as navigating without GPS, can improve spatial memory and problem-solving skills. Additionally, fostering mental health through regular social interaction with others can support cognitive function and memory consolidation.
