Improve Your Memory

Having a good memory is an indicator of overall brain health and is a pleasure we all should enjoy. Studies have shown that you can improve your memory. Some people have dedicated their life's work to helping people improve their memories. Jim Kwik, a memory expert, says that about 1/3 of your memory is genetic. The rest, you can influence. For example, it's important to keep learning and learn in different ways. If you always read, listen to audio. If you never take notes, start taking notes. Here are some other ways you can improve your memory.

Motivation

Part of memory is tied to how badly you want to remember. If you casually meet someone at a social gathering, you may not be motivated to remember their name. But if you know that the person could be important in your life, you will be more likely to remember. One tip to help you remember a name is to repeat their name: "Nice to meet you Julie" And then try to use it in conversation. Another technique is to play a little game with yourself and visualize their name as it relates to an object with a similar name. Your brain will store that object you visualized and the next time you see them, it will help you recall their name. For example you might picture a little lamb when you first meet Mary. Or you could visualize a merry gathering.

Brain Foods

The food you eat not only affects your overall health, but it affects your ability to remember as well. Good foods for the brain include dark berries like blueberries, raspberries and boysenberries. Good fats are also important for your brain health. Eat plenty healthy fish, avocados and healthy oils like olive oil. A little bit of high cocoa dark chocolate is good for the brain too. It's also important to avoid the foods that you are sensitive or allergic to. Those foods cause inflammation in your body which can affect everything, including your brain health.

Power of Imagination

Your brain doesn't know the difference between what is actually happening and what you are imagining. Spend time imagining the future of your dreams including having a wonderful memory. It's a good exercise for your brain and your brain will go to work bringing the vision into reality. At the same time, watching your words and thoughts can work in parallel with the power of your imagination. You don't want to be thinking or saying things like: "I have such a bad memory. I can never remember people's names."

Supplements

B vitamins and DHA are critically important for your cognitive abilities. DHA is the main Omega 3 fat in your brain. Your body can only make a small amount of it from other fats. So you have to consume it or supplement with it. Foods that contain DHA are oily fish, seaweed, chia seeds, flax seeds and hemp seeds. Magnesium is another important nutrient for brain health and many people are deficient. If you have health concerns about your brain, getting a blood test may help you identify nutrients that you are lacking.

Good Sleep

A good nights sleep is not only important for your overall wellness, it is extremely important for your brain health. Your brain actually fills with fluid at night and flushes out toxins and plaque. This is critical for brain health and memory. Also when you sleep, you consolidate short to long term memory. And finally, your brain does not turn off at night. Many great inventions, songs and other amazing creations have come to people in their dreams.

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