6 Hacks to Strengthen our Brain and Improve Productivity
We’ve all had those days when we’ve accomplished nothing. We’ve got a long to-do list of dreadful and uneventful tasks and chores, and no amount of coaxing is going to get us moving. Days turn into weeks and nothing is getting done. Procrastination feels so good, but in the end, we want to fire up our brains and compel ourselves to be productive humans.
As we age, our brain not only declines in cognitive function, but our short-term memory starts to fail and we have the potential of developing dementia and Alzheimers. This is a huge fear for most of us, but it doesn’t have to be this way. Here are a few hacks that will turbo-charge your brain to new heights, strengthen it, keep it healthy, and get those mundane jobs done.
Brain-Friendly Foods
The food choices we make are probably the most influential variable we can control when it comes to the health, vitality, and functionality of our precious brain. Here’s a list of several brain booster foods that you can incorporate into your diet easily.
♥ Organic cold-pressed, non-hydrogenated, virgin coconut oil can raise blood ketone levels which can protect the brain and stimulate brain cell growth.
♥ Omega 3’s fatty acids are highly concentrated in the brain and appear to be important for cognitive (brain memory and performance) and behavioral function. Omega 3 rich foods include salmon, beans, some nuts, flaxseed, chia seeds, and olive oil.
♥ Avocados are rich in vitamin E and monounsaturated fatty fruit which contributes to healthy blood flow to the brain.
♥ Berries and dark-skinned fruits are rich in antioxidants and contain anthocyanins and will boost your neurons. Options include cherries, blueberries, blackberries, strawberries, raspberries, plums, oranges, and red grapes.
♥ Dark leafy greens like kale and spinach and cruciferous vegetables like broccoli and cauliflower help lower levels of cognitive decline.
Essential Oils
Essential oils have been used for centuries for their health benefits, but they’ve really grown in popularity over the past few years. For memory learning, Rosemary, Peppermint, Frankincense, Clary Sage, and Bergamot are invigorating for the brain. Anything from the mint family is especially will stimulate nerves and brain function, as well as blood circulation. You can inhale them, diffuse them, massage them onto your body, add a few drops to your bathwater and consume them in drinks and other recipes.
Time Management
If you find yourself procrastinating daily, then an action plan is needed. Make a list every morning of the things you must get done during the day. Decide to have them done by 11 am so you have the rest of the day to do other things. Multi-task a few jobs if possible. Make this a routine, so your brain will adapt to this action.
Supplements
There are several key supplements that will transform your brain health. Lion’s Mane Mushroom is the number one brain supplement. It has powerful nerve-regenerating properties that enhance cognitive functions such as memory, focus, and mood. One study showed that Lion’s Mane is capable of regrowing damaged or dead nerve cells. Phosphatidylserine, Bacopa, Vinpocetine, American Ginseng, and Citicoline are just a few more powerful brain-boosting supplements.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. It’s not intended to offer any medical advice whatsoever. If you have any health concerns, see your healthcare provider.