Ageing is inevitable, however an inactive mind or lessening of mental health is not. Just as we can help our physical bodies age well and gracefully, we can do the same with our mental health. There is a lot we can do to keep our minds alert and sharp.
Research suggests that if we sit on the couch all day and do nothing, our body will reflect this with flabbiness/weight gain. The same can be said for our minds if they are not exercised, which can result in memory loss and the like. More often than not, memory loss is actually lifestyle-related rather than a sign of ageing.
Having said that, a decline in mental ability may be due to disease or prescribed medications. So, what can we do to keep our minds healthy and our mental health strong?
Leanne & Fitness Tips Say:
Physical Activity –
- If you want an active mind, it is crucial to have an active body. 30 minutes of moderate exercise every day is important. Regular exercise can improve your brains’ memory, reasoning abilities and reaction times.
Healthy Diet –
- Eating a well-balanced diet helps to keep your brain in tip-top condition. Make sure your diet contains sufficient B group vitamins. Glucose is the brains sole energy source so be sure that you do not eat a very low carbohydrate diet.
Improve your Mental Fitness –
- Keep up your social life and engage in conversation
- Read newspapers, books and do the crossword puzzles!
- Take a short course on a subject that interests you
- Learn a language
- Keep stress under control with meditation, yoga, or even tai chi classes!
If you feel that your mental health or brain function may be slowing as you are getting older, try the things listed above. It’s never too late to get mentally healthy and that brain active again!
Improvements in mental health can be achieved through happiness and creating a positive mindset. Happiness is a state of mind with which you confront your problems and train the mind to think and behave positively. You can read more about How To Be Positive And Have An Awesome Day! here.
xx Leanne
