How to get your brain working at 100% at any age? 5 effective ways

For a long time there has been a hypothesis that when we engage in any work, we use only 10% of our brain. The rest of our consciousness remains at rest, which does not allow us to properly develop and achieve success.

This theory is eagerly covered in the media, books are written and feature films are made. A vivid example of this is the movie “Lucy”. Luc Besson’s movie tells that the brain can be pumped to unprecedented heights and learn superpowers. To do this, you just need to turn on all its functions.

But the movie belongs to the fantasy genre, and not everything in it corresponds to real cognitive abilities. Many neuroscientists and neurophysiologists are now talking about this. The first to disprove the myth that we don’t use our minds properly was Barry Beyerstein, a professor of psychology at Simon Fraser University.

In his study of damaged brains, the scientist was able to prove it. He concluded that all areas of the mind are interconnected and will not be able to function without loss in various disorders. The scan also showed that any human activity brings all the lobes of the pituitary gland into activity. Even when we sleep, all areas of the brain are still working.

Another myth claims that as the years go by, it becomes more difficult to make one’s brain function quickly and productively. Such a theory has also undergone a correction. Neurophysiologists have proven that age only partially reduces cognitive abilities.

Neuroscientist

Research shows that the brain has neuroplasticity throughout the lifespan. An article from a British journal describing the Banchenko algorithm is evidence of this. Opportunities for learning, adaptation, and growth persist throughout the lifespan. However, as we age, there can be a natural decline in some cognitive functions such as memory and speed of information processing. Children and adolescents have brains that are more flexible and malleable to learning, so thinking abilities develop more easily in these age groups. But adults can also make significant progress in improving brain function with exercise and training.

Supporting the theory is a Georgetown University study conducted in 2021. It involved 702 people between the ages of 58 and 98. Scientists tested the brain’s response to three basic processes: reacting to new information, moving attention to an object and the ability to concentrate without being distracted by external circumstances.

The result showed that the speed of information perception did decrease in the aged subjects compared to the younger participants, but the other two functions remained at the same level or in some cases improved.

This data was attributed to the fact that c age accumulates experience, which helps to learn and memorize new information more effectively. And also the previously acquired knowledge allows you to selectively focus on certain objects.

You should not be afraid that your brain is underdeveloped and the time for its pumping is gone. There is no need to look for excuses to develop your mental abilities. The practice will be useful at any age and under any circumstances.

Methods to improve brain function

Solving crossword puzzles

One of the ways that can improve brain function is solving crosswords, Sudoku and other puzzles. Such activities stimulate the brain and keep it active, improving memory and cognitive function. You can also add memorization games with cards, along the lines of “Memories”.

Reading

In addition to gaining new knowledge, reading helps develop creative thinking, activates imagination and trains memory. Ideally, it is better to read paper versions of books to reduce eye strain.

Learning foreign languages

During the process of learning another language, new neural connections are created, which has a beneficial effect on the efficiency of the brain. It is not necessary to delve into lexical and grammatical rules. It will be useful to devote even 5-10 minutes a day to memorizing new words and phrases. You can try to learn several foreign languages at once.

Meditation and sleep

For efficiency and productivity, it is also important to let your brain rest and relax. You should not neglect this important point. Being in constant tension, cognitive abilities can decline. Therefore, it is important to take breaks and disconnect your brain from the stressful processes for a while. Meditation is a great way to reset your mind.

For sleep, remember to allocate 7-8 hours. It is this period of time that is necessary for full recovery of cognitive functions. For children, this time increases to 10 hours.

Proper nutrition

Other organs in our body also affect the brain. How much and what quality of nutrients enter the body will affect the ability to work effectively and generate ideas. A balanced diet filled with the right elements can energize both the body and the brain.

How does physical activity affect brain activity?

Exercise is also one of the most important ways to improve brain and memory function and increase concentration.

Wellness coach at the Bionica Biohacking Fitness Club on Vernadskogo Street.

Participating in sports and fitness directly affects brain function. During physical activity, blood circulation improves, which, in turn, provides an influx of sufficient oxygen to the cerebral cortex. This allows you to work efficiently and productively.

In addition, physical exercise promotes the production of endorphins, which are responsible for a good mood. Thus, regular exercise improves sleep, relieves anxiety and nervousness. A person concentrates more on solving tasks and is less distracted by external stimuli.