March 16 - 22: Brain Awareness Week

The brain is a magnificent organ that affords humans extraordinary abilities and benefits. The brain functions as the captain of its ship. The brain carries the executive functioning of the body by commanding and leading the rest of the body to perform its various responsibilities. Every thought, feeling, sensation, perception, experience and behavior originates in the brain. Given the complexity and vitality of this mysterious organ, it is imperative that individuals adhere to engaging in best practices when caring for their brains. Caring for your brain offers many advantages. A healthy brain allows you to perform at your optimum level. In addition, a healthy brain assist in mental, emotional and physical wellness. In honor of Brain Awareness Week, this blog will cover basic care to maintain a healthy brain.

1. Attain a good nights sleep. A good nights sleep is physically and psychologically restorative depending upon the sleep stage you are in. Sleep is critical to consolidation of learning and memory. Sleep allows the body to process and organize the information encountered during the day. Quality sleep improves your cognitive functioning.
2. Healthy diet. Your brain chemicals called neurotransmitters which are responsible for thinking, feeling and behaving are manufactured by the foods you consume. Your brain depends on oxygen and nutrients to function at its best. The nutrients delivered to your brain are derived from the foods you consume. The aphorism, 'You are what you eat' is accurate. A healthy diet is essential to sustaining a healthy brain.
3. Exercise. Physical activity is critical to your overall health, including the health of your brain. Exercise assists in delivering the oxygen and nutrients derived from your diet to the brain. The oxygen and nutrients that are transported to your brain assists in increasing the cognitive performance of your brain.
4. Stress-Management. Stress can have adverse consequences to your overall health. A stress hormone called cortisol is released within the body which over time can deteriorate your health. Studies suggest that stress can be damaging to an area in your brain called the hippocampus, which is responsible for memory and navigation. Stress can also impact the processing of the brain. Create constructive coping mechanisms to alleviate the stress you experience.
5. Brain-stimulation. The cliche, 'Use it or lose it' speaks volumes concerning healthy brain development and maintenance. The brain is a powerhouse organ that is wired to receive stimulation to encourage development of neural connections. These connections within the brain enhance the brain's efficiency. Continue to challenge yourself intellectually. Engage in new hobbies and continue to keep the mind guessing and adapting. Your brain welcomes and enjoys challenges.

Preserve and strengthen your mental capacities and critical faculties by utilizing these basic tips.