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Defend You Brain Against The Ravages Of Time

There are many inconveniences associated with an aging brain. Indeed, it is one of the greatest fears many of us have. When our brains age, we run the risk of diseases like Alzheimer's. Additionally, just the ability to remember slowly starts to slip away. Happily, however, with modern medical science, we have learned a great deal about the way the brain ages, as well as things we can do to slow that aging process down.

First and foremost is the need to keep the body healthy. A healthy mind resides in a healthy body and there is no denying the fact that our physical health and our mental health are inter-connected. All efforts to keep the body fit also help to keep the brain fit. Thus, physical exercise greatly benefits both body and mind.

While all kinds of exercise are beneficial (including walking, gardening, etc.), you can also try some exercises that are especially designed to help our physical and mental selves remain in tandem. Ancient Eastern disciplines like Tai Chi and Yoga focus specifically on the mind-body connection. These programs provide many variations for all skill levels.

While physical exercise can slow down aging in the brain, it cannot fully replace exercise especially for the brain, such as reading. Reading can greatly improve the health of the brain. Even reading novels is beneficial. However, if you read about serious subjects sometimes, it can help keep your brain young and alert.

Crossword puzzles are other great brain exercisers. When one has to think about and recall information to complete a crossword puzzle, this gives the brain some needed use. Other word games like the jumble and anagrams can also help slow brain aging, as can games like memory, which can be played with your grandchildren.

Exercise for the brain must be accompanied with adequate rest to slow down aging. The brain gets stressed in its later years because of years of inadequate sleep. It is important to get a good night's sleep on most nights to help the brain rest and recover from the day's work. It has been shown that sleep also helps the brain to sort through the day's information and helps you prepare better for the next day.

The elevated plane of rest is meditation. It does not necessarily involve sitting in a funny posture and contemplating the deep meanings of life and the universe. It simply means to consciously slow down without falling asleep and watching things without preconceived notions. It helps to reduce tension by putting things in perspective, even though you do not aim at achieving an empty mind. Meditation helps the brain function more efficiently.

As the aging process affects the brain, it is important to take steps to avoid the loss of its faculties. Lessen the effects of aging on your brain by taking steps to keep it active, give it proper rest, and to take care of yourself now. It is never too early to begin taking care of brain, and the earlier you start, the longer you will enjoy it.