Memory Exercises
Here are some popular exercises that can help to build brain power and improve the processes that are associated with memory.
Games
There are many games which are designed to teach the brain to organize data and increase the potential for memory. Most of these types of games are designed to increase the potential for short term memory. These games can include the traditional form of memory, in which cards that are turned down are matched and paired with the cards that match. This way, you can remember up to seven cards at one time and find the matching pair.
Math Problems
Math problems, even simple match problems engage brain waves that can improve the capabilities of the long and short term memory. This includes memorizing the answers to simple problems as well as memorizing the formulas which must be used to calculate more challenging problems.
Recalling Short Grocery Lists
Short grocery lists are some of the most common items that people remember, yet most of us find ourselves forgetting something after we have left the store or at the point that we have reached home. To begin to improve your memory for short term items consider using this technique. In the morning, complete a small list of five items that you would regularly need from the supermarket. Through the day try and recall these items, through the course of the week you should see an improvement in the items that you have been able to retain throughout the day and remember into the evening.
Chunking
Try to remember a ten digit number throughout the day and see if you are able to recall this number at night. Using the technique that researchers refer to as chunking means that this number will then be divided into three smaller sections, much like a phone number that includes the area code. Many times, chunking increases the chances of the memory being retained. This is also a form of association that can associate the phone number with the ten digit number that is trying to be recalled.
Paying Attention and Recalling Details
This is a type of memory exercise that is useful for those people that are always misplacing something. For example, if you find yourself always misplacing the car keys – the next time that you have the car keys in your hand, say aloud – I am putting the car keys in my left pocket of my jacket. This way, when it comes time to recall where the keys are you will have created a cue by paying attention and recalling the details of the situation where you may have potentially forgotten the keys and you can improve your memory in the process!
Stretching
There has been multiple studies that have stretching is an effective way to improve the base of the memory. When we stretch the blood flow increases more than fifteen percent into the blood and can also stimulate the muscle. As the brain is made up of muscle, it really is possible to exercise the brain, literally and increase the brain power in the process! Stretching the body can also lead to increased energy, which is an effective way to retain information better and create optimal health within the body. There has never been a better reason to stretch, as it can work the body and work the mind!
Exercising the brain has shown many benefits to the body and therefore experts recommend spending at least five to fifteen minutes daily doing something that will stimulate the brain and work as a “bran exercise” in order to maintain optimal health and fight degenerative disease. Complete a crossword puzzle or challenge yourself to find the best way to exercise the brain.