The 5 habits that help improve memory, according to neuroscience

However, over time it is natural for memory to deteriorate, a process that worries many people. In this context, the Center for Advanced Neurology (CNA) presented five recommendations that can help improve memory, based on neuroscience studies. These suggestions, although simple, aim to keep the brain active and functional at all stages of life.

1. Keep your mind active

One of CNA’s main recommendations is to keep your mind active. According to experts, learning a new language, playing a musical instrument or even taking different routes while driving are activities that significantly stimulate the brain.

These actions, CNA explains, help create new neural connections, which improves the ability to remember and adapt to new situations.

2. Cultivate a social life

Social isolation is another factor that can negatively affect memory. To counter this, CNA recommends cultivating an active social life. Talking to other people is also a way to exercise your mind, experts say.

Isolation, especially for those who live alone, can lead to stress and depression, which accelerates cognitive decline. On the other hand, spending time with friends, participating in group activities, and attending family gatherings helps maintain mental agility.

3. Organize your environment (and your thoughts)

Another important recommendation is to organize your physical and mental environment. Having an organized space also helps keep your mind organized, CNA points out.

Organizing the environment promotes retention of information and avoids forgetting. To do this, experts suggest assigning fixed places to objects, writing to-do lists and verbalizing what needs to be done. These actions also help reduce stress and improve concentration.

4. Make reading part of your routine

Incorporating reading into your daily routine is another great way to improve your memory. Reading not only expands vocabulary and imagination, but also stimulates attention and information processing.

According to the CNA (Canadian Association for Neuroscience), all these positive effects translate into better memory. Reading books, articles or even comics can have a lasting impact on your ability to memorize, because it promotes brain activity in several areas.

5. Take care of your body to take care of your mind

Finally, physical health plays a fundamental role in cognitive well-being. Getting enough sleep, maintaining a balanced diet and controlling chronic illnesses like diabetes or hypertension are essential to keeping your memory in good shape.

CNA also emphasizes the importance of activities that require concentration, such as writing by hand, listening to music, laughing, singing or exploring new places. Anything that stimulates different areas of the brain is beneficial, experts say.