If you can't remember where you left your keys or the name of a new colleague, it's probably not stupidity or dementia. More likely, your brain has gotten caught in ruts and information overload. But you can help your brain learn and remember. Create new connections -- big or small -- and your brain becomes more active and stays flexible. Even the brains of older people can grow new neurons. Here are five ways to create new neural pathways and to help your brain stay plastic:
- Laugh. It's good for your brain! Humor works in the whole brain, and quickly. Less than a half-second after you hear or see something funny, an electrical wave moves through the higher brain functions of the cerebral cortex: the left hemisphere analyzes the joke's words and structure; the right hemisphere interprets the meaning. Meanwhile, the visual sensory area of the occipital lobe creates images; the limbic (emotional system) makes you happier; and the motor sections make you smile or laugh. In short, laughter improves alertness, creativity, and memory. Those who study the new field of gelotology, which explores the benefits of laughter, have found that laughter lowers blood pressure, increases vascular blood flow and oxygenation of the blood, provides a workout to the diaphragm and various other muscles, reduces certain stress hormones, increases disease and tumor killing cells, and defends against respiratory infections. Help your brain by smiling, reading a few comics, or faking a chuckle or two. It's infectious.
Remember, your brain is flexible and alive regardless of your age, and no matter how many keys or words you misplace. By reducing stimulation and making little changes, you'll appreciate your wonderful brain. Start big or small, and you'll find your brain coming back to life.
Sondra Kornblatt is the author of "A Better Brain at Any Age: The Holistic Way to Improve Your Memory, Reduce Stress, and Sharpen Your Wits" (Conari Press, December 2008). Learn more at www.redwheelweiser.com.