Saturday, April 10, 2010

Activate your Lazy Brain

The above image is of a human brain and sidelined with different functions it performs.Our brain has two sides or hemispheres-right and left.And do you your two sides of the brain are doing different things while reading this article.
The right brain focuses on the expression and reading of emotions, understanding metaphors, and reading faces while the left brain is far more logical, focusing on language skills, analytical time sequence processing and skilled movement. So which side you use the most?. Log on to http://www.actualme.com/ and take the test to know whether you are left brained or right brained.
Each of us have excellent memory(yeah). There are 100 billion number of neurons in your brain and 100 trillion synapase connections.We would need 14901 terabytes of computer memory just to make an accurate snapshot of the brain's synapse connections without thinking about the neuron itself.Astounding it sounds,isn it,but then why you can't memorise as good as your class topper.The Lack of recall, not lack of storage, is often the cause of forgetfulness and you blame it on your poor brain.You basically don't use your brain   to optimum quality.If you train your brain like you train your biceps then you can yield great results which not only make you do things effectively but being more open to take challenges.Here i am giving basic ways to train and your brain :-
1.Memory enhancement-

 Many of us complain of poor memory.Its a misconception in minds  of people.
In an  average human brain there are approx 100 billion neurons and 100 trillion synapse  connections.3Mbytes the  amount of information  our eyes collects  every second.Only brain need is training and some fuel to keep it  going.I am listing a few of methods here-
 a.When you memorise your material,use all your senses and pay attention to what you read.Don't try too hard or cram,just go through it, understanding and thinking about what you are reading.
 b.Try different techniques of memorising like reading,writing or by forming visual images in your head.
 c.Try learning new things like learning a new language,talking to strangers,it will make your brain do some work.
 d.Do crossword puzzles,memory games,memory tests like mensa.To do a mensa test log on to mensa.org


                                                                                    
2.Nutrition-                                                                  
  Food you eat have aprofound effect  on   your brain.
   B vitamins, especially B6, B12, and folic acid, protects neurons by breaking down homocysteine, an amino acid that is toxic to nerve cells. They’re also involved in making red blood cells, which carry oxygen. (Best sources: spinach and other dark leafy greens, broccoli, asparagus, strawberries, melons, black beans and other legumes, citrus fruits, soybeans.)
   Antioxidants like vitamins C and E, and beta carotene, fight free radicals, which are atoms formed when oxygen interacts with certain molecules. Free radicals are highly reactive and can damage cells, but antioxidants can interact with them safely and neutralize them. Antioxidants also improve the flow of oxygen through the body and brain. (Best sources: blueberries and other berries, sweet potatoes, red tomatoes,spinach, broccoli, green tea, nuts and seeds, citrus fruits, liver.)
   Omega-3 fatty acids are concentrated in the brain and are associated with cognitive function. They count as  “healthy” fats, as opposed to saturated fats and transfats,protecting against inflammation and high cholesterol.  (Best sources: cold-water fish such as salmon, herring, tuna, ; walnuts and walnut oil;  flaxseed       and flaxseed  oil).
3.Exercise -
   Most of us know that physical exercise is good for our general health, but did you know that physical  exercise is also good for your brain? If you think you’re going to get smarter sitting in front of your computer or watching television, think again. Here scientists present the evidence that a healthy human being is a human doing.If you can't go to a fancy gym,try doing at home by buying some basic exercise equipments,it sounds expensive but health is prime importance or try doing some basic aerobic exercises atleast 30 min everday.
   Mental exercise-Solve crossword puzzles,memory games,tests.Try  using your left hand for doing things.Try having shower with closed  eyes.
4.Communication-When we talk to someone both the sides of our brain come into play for decoding and encoding information.Try talking as much as you can to your friends,family,neighbours(but do not irritate them by talking helplessly)
5.Discover and visit new locations and places.It helps to make new connections when you traven and do  adventure  activity.