As a child, what did you do to build a healthy, strong brain? Did you explore the outdoors, read, write, ask a lot of questions, play hard, or get sweaty?
All those activities are the same that keep kupunas’ minds strong and healthy. Which of them have you kept up as an adult? Did life get in the way of exploring, learning, and pushing the limits?
The Alzheimer’s Association recently released 10 Ways to Love Your Brain. So what are those 10 ways?
- Break a sweat. It doesn’t have to be a marathon – just 30 minutes of walking, biking, or swimming will do the trick.
- Hit the books. Take advantage of Kaunoa’s very low cost classes for those 55+ or consider auditing a class at UHMC.
- Butt out. Many programs can assist you to kick the cigarette habit. Talk to you doctor or call the tobacco quit line.
- Follow your heart. Managing weight, blood pressure, cholesterol, and diabetes help both the heart and the brain.
- Heads up! Buckle up, wear a helmet when biking, and protect yourself from falls.
- Fuel up right. A healthy diet benefits your heart, brain, and waistline.
- Catch some ZZZ’s. Lack of sleep from insomnia, sleep apnea, or just getting to sleep late negatively impact the brain.
- Take care of your mental health. This includes depression, anxiety and stress!
- Buddy up. Social activities like volunteering and spending time with friends and family are excellent “brain medicine.”
- Stump yourself. Learn new hobbies, play challenging games, or try new experiences.
For more information, visit the 10 Ways to Love Your Brain website (http://bit.ly/1IFPmUX). The Alzheimer’s Association also conducts a monthly hands-on workshop of fun ways to challenge your brain. Contact Lynsey Capone-Smith at [email protected] or 242-8636 for more information.
