Before
we do the IELTS test, of course we should study hard and keep our body
healthy so we can do the test on perfect condition. But did you know if
its also important to keep our brain healthy? Neuroscientist Matthew
Stanford, professor of psychology, neuroscience and biomedical studies
at Baylor University wrote about some ways to keep our brain healthy.
The
average adult needs about 7.5 hours of sleep every night. Research has
shown that sleep deprived individuals have a shorter attention span,
impaired memory, longer reaction times and reduced neural activity
during cognitive tasks.
Movies, TV and Video Games in Moderation
Positive
and affirming movies, TV and video games in moderation are certainly
not damaging. Unfortunately, in our high tech society this type of
entertainment is increasingly taking the place of more healthy
activities such as exercise, time with friends and reading. In excess,
video media can have a detrimental effect on brain function. Studies
show that long-term exposure to video media can lead to a permanent
change in brain activity resulting in impulsive behavior and an
inability to concentrate.
Exercise Regularly
Regular
exercise benefits our bodies; it helps us manage our weight, increases
strength and stamina, reduces stress and improves mood. Exercise is also
important for the health of our brain. Those who exercise regularly
learn faster, remember more, think more clearly and bounce back faster
from brain injuries and psychological distress than those who do not
exercise.
Stay Away from Pornography
Viewing
pornography significantly increases levels of testosterone, oxytocin
and dopamine in the brains. This flood of neurochemicals brings about a
pleasurable feeling, heightened excitement and focused attention.
Increasing dopamine activity causes serotonin levels in the brain to
drop, resulting in feelings of euphoria and obsessional thoughts.
Develop Good Eating Habits
Brain
requires sufficient levels of glucose, electrolytes and amino acids,
all of which are obtained through the foods you eat. Deficiencies in any
of these vital nutrients can lead to cognitive confusion,
forgetfulness, lack of attention and mood swings.
Avoid Drugs and Alcohol
The
highly destructive effects of alcohol and drugs on the brain cannot be
understated. These substances wreak havoc on the neurons’ ability to
send signals by altering the levels of neurotransmitters within the
brain. In addition, alcohol and drugs literally destroy the cells within
the brain which can lead to permanent brain damage and cognitive
impairment.
Limit the Use of Technology
The
average young person spends more than eight hours each day using
technology. The internet, cell phones and texting have altered the
social and educational landscapes of society. Unfortunately, they also
appear to be rewiring our brains, resulting in an inability to form
close relational bonds, false intimacy, an increased frequency of errors
from multi-tasking and attentional problems.
Read Everyday
Much
like an athlete that works his or her muscles through physical
exercise, the brain is strengthened by the “mental” exercise of reading.
Individuals who read often have superior memories, vocabularies,
comprehension skills and attention. The neurocognitive affects of
reading are perhaps most apparent in the fact that reading is protective
against damage to the brain.
Reduce Stress
In
a stressful situation, the body reacts with a flood of stress hormones
to prepare you for the circumstances at hand. Your heart beats faster,
your blood pressure rises and you breathe faster, pumping oxygen rich
blood to your muscles. Unfortunately, prolonged stress can have damaging
effects on the body and the brain. Research has shown that extended
exposure to stress hormones actually causes cell death in certain brain
areas. This is supported by the fact that highly stressed individuals
consistently report forgetfulness and difficulty learning new material.
Develop an Active Spiritual Life
Studies
show that religious and spiritual practices improve mental and physical
health. Religious people are able to cope better with stress, resulting
in lower blood pressure and stress hormone levels. They also report
less anxiety, less depression, and increased feelings of security,
compassion, and love. Research with highly religious individuals has
shown that regular prayer and meditation can positively alter brain
structure and function.
source: superscholar.org
bestowed upon eddysuaib.com
