For many of us, life is all about organizing chaos into a predictable routine, right? You probably wake up, get everyone out the door to school and work, get home, throw together dinner and chauffeur everyone around for evening activities. Finally, it’s bath, books and bedtime. Once your house is quiet, are you on the couch with the remote in hand?

If that sounds familiar, you are not alone. It can be hard to do other things after a long day! However, challenging your brain every day is good for your mental health and for supporting your long-term cognitive health.

Our AFC Urgent Care Indian Trail team wants you to stay happy and healthy, so read on to learn some easy ways to incorporate brain activities into your daily routine.

What Brain Activities Can I Do?

Your brain is like a muscle. The more you use it, the stronger it becomes! This is why it is important to challenge it to work in new and exciting ways as often as you can. This may include trying out new hobbies, finding other creative outlets or taking time to unwind with a good book.

In addition, you should be forcing your brain to problem-solve or learn new things as often as possible. Try out word finds, crossword puzzles or even a new card game with your spouse! These activities can still be done in a relaxing manner, but you are giving your brain a boost each time you do them.

Supporting a Healthy Brain

• Avoid smoking and other forms of tobacco.
• Don’t abuse alcohol.
• Protect your head from injury by wearing a helmet.

How Else Can I Support My Brain?

Our entire bodies are connected, so it should be no surprise that your physical health can impact your cognitive health and mental health. This is where the importance of exercise comes into play! Regular workouts can help improve your self-esteem, reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression and can even help keep your memory sharper as you age.

If you struggle to find the motivation to exercise, try enlisting a friend to help you. You can work out together, or you can encourage each other through text or phone call. In addition to a great workout, you’ll have the benefit of strengthening a few social relationships. Having solid friendships can also reduce your risk of developing dementia.

Benefits of Regular Exercise

• Reduces feelings of depression and anxiety
• Decreases stress
• Boosts self-esteem
• Improves sleep, which improves focus and clarity each day

We are here to help you feel better from your brain to your feet. Come see us at AFC Urgent Care Indian Trail.