One of the factors that enable the brain to operate effectively is its plasticity. Basically, the more thoughts you process – the quicker your brain becomes at dealing with them. This is one of the reasons times tables are taught at school, and whilst it may have initially taken some time calculating 4 x 5, after a while, it most likely became an automatic process. Exercising your brain in this manner optimises cognitive-function generally, but can serve as a particularly effective means of retaining memories. Activities you can undertake to heighten plasticity include: learning to play a musical instrument, learning a new language, playing chess, or learning a new skill. These provide the sort of challenges that allow the brain to think creatively – boosting its natural abilities.
Doing regular exercise can also help. Like other parts of your body, your brain contains nerve-cells which require movement in order to function properly and grow. Engaging in a sport that requires the use of specific skills and concentration such as football or tennis are also beneficial – as they stimulate thought-processes.
As with many aspects of your health and wellbeing, brain function can also be greatly assisted by pursuing a healthy lifestyle. This often involves following a healthy dietary routine, eating at regular times of the day and always having breakfast, getting a good night’s sleep of at least 7 hours, and as always, engaging in regular physical activity.
Finally, interacting with other people can have a positive impact on brain-health. The more you speak to people and engage in conversation – the more your brain works in order to comprehend and process the information it is being presented.