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Ways to develop the brain’s thinking ability

Brain training to improve memory, concentration or daily function is a top priority for many older adults. But people of all ages can benefit from incorporating a few simple brain exercises into their daily lives. So what are the ways to develop thinking ability?

1. Can thinking ability be developed and improved? Why

Thinking ability can absolutely be developed and improved, and this is based on many scientific studies as well as practical experience. The main reason is because the human brain is flexible and capable of change, also known as neuroplasticity. This plasticity allows the brain to create new neural connections, strengthen existing connections, and even form new neural networks as we learn, think, and experience.

  • Continuous learning: When we are exposed to new knowledge, learn new skills or solve complex problems, the brain is forced to work to adapt and process information. This process not only helps strengthen thinking abilities but also enhances the sharpness and flexibility of the brain.
  • Exercise and practice: Like the muscles in the body, thinking ability can also be improved through regular exercise. Activities such as reading books, playing intellectual games, participating in discussions, and solving logic problems all help train and develop thinking abilities.
  • Nutrition and healthy lifestyle: A balanced, nutrient-rich diet, along with a healthy lifestyle such as regular exercise, getting enough sleep and reducing stress, also play an important role in reducing stress. improve thinking ability. A healthy body will optimally support brain function and thinking ability.
  • Challenge yourself: When you push yourself out of your comfort zone and face new challenges, your brain will have to work harder to find creative and effective solutions. This helps improve critical thinking and creative thinking.
How to develop thinking ability

A balanced diet along with a healthy lifestyle also makes an important contribution to improving thinking ability

KThinking ability is not a fixed factor but can be developed and improved through learning, practicing, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. The brain’s flexibility along with its ability to adapt to new situations is proof that we can completely improve our thinking ability over time.

2. State and analyze ways to develop the brain’s thinking ability

Every brain changes with age, and mental function changes as well. Mental decline is common and it is one of the most feared consequences of aging. But cognitive decline is not inevitable. Here are 12 Ways to improve thinking ability and helps maintain brain function that you can apply.

2.1 Exercise regularly

Exercise has many known benefits and regular physical activity is also beneficial for the brain. Many studies show that physically active people are less likely to have impaired mental function and have a lower risk of Alzheimer’s disease.

These benefits are a result of increased blood flow to the brain during exercise. It also tends to counteract some of the natural decline in brain connections that occurs during aging, reversing some problems.

Aim to exercise several times per week for 30 to 60 minutes. You can walk, swim, play tennis or do any other moderate aerobic activity that increases your heart rate.

2.2 Get enough sleep

Sleep plays an important role in your brain health. Some theories suggest that sleep helps clear abnormal proteins in the brain and consolidate memory, which enhances memory and overall brain health.

How to develop thinking ability
Sleep plays an important role in your brain health

The goal is to sleep consistently for seven to eight hours each night, not intermittently in two or three hour bursts. Continuous sleep gives your brain time to consolidate and store memories effectively. Sleep apnea is harmful to your brain health and may be the reason why it’s difficult to stay asleep. Talk to your healthcare team if you or a loved one suspect you have sleep apnea.

2.3 Mental stimulation

Through research on mice and humans, scientists have discovered that brain activity stimulates new connections between nerve cells and can even help the brain create new cells. , developing neural “plasticity” and building a functional reserve that helps prevent future cell loss.

Any mentally stimulating activity helps build your brain. Read books, take courses, try “mental gymnastics”, such as crossword puzzles or math problems. Experiment with things that require manual dexterity as well as mental effort, e.g. drawing, painting and other crafts.

2.4 Eat a Mediterranean diet

Your diet plays a big role in your brain health. Consider adopting a Mediterranean diet, which emphasizes plant-based foods, whole grains, fish and healthy fats, such as olive oil. This diet incorporates less red meat and salt than the typical American diet.

Studies show that people who closely follow the Mediterranean diet are less likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease than those who do not follow this diet. More research is needed to determine which parts of the diet help the brain most. However, we know that omega fatty acids found in extra virgin olive oil and other healthy fats are essential for your cells to function properly, which appears to reduce the risk of coronary artery disease. , enhances mental focus and slows cognitive decline in older adults.

2.5 Keep your spirit active

Your brain is like a muscle you need to use it or lose it. There are many things you can do to keep your brain healthy, such as doing crossword puzzles or Sudoku, reading books, playing cards or doing jigsaw puzzles. Think of it as cross-training your brain. Combine different types of activities to increase efficiency.

Most health care groups discourage paid brain training programs. These programs often over-promise results or focus on memory skills that are not useful in everyday life. Your brain can get such a good workout through reading or challenging yourself with puzzles. Finally, don’t watch too much TV, because it’s a passive activity and doesn’t stimulate your brain.

2.6 Maintain social engagement

Social interaction helps prevent depression and stress, which can lead to memory loss. Look for opportunities to connect with loved ones, friends, and others, especially if you live alone. Research links solitary confinement to brain atrophy, so staying socially active may have the opposite effect and boost your brain health.

2.7 Keep blood vessels healthy

The health of your arteries and veins is important for heart health but is also important for brain health. Check your blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol regularly and take steps to keep them within normal ranges.

Increase physical activity, eat a Mediterranean diet and reduce sodium intake to lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Finally, tobacco and alcohol use also affect brain health, so only drink alcohol in moderation and don’t smoke. Moderate drinking is defined as up to one drink per day for women and up to two drinks per day for men.

2.8 Improve blood pressure

High blood pressure in middle age increases the risk of cognitive decline in old age. Make lifestyle changes to keep your blood pressure as low as possible. Stay fit, exercise regularly, limit alcohol to two drinks a day, reduce stress and eat right.

How to develop thinking ability
High blood pressure in middle age increases the risk of cognitive decline in old age

2.9 Improve blood sugar levels

Diabetes is an important risk factor for dementia. You can help prevent diabetes by eating right, exercising regularly, and staying fit. But if your blood sugar remains high, you will need medication to keep it under good control.

2.10 Improve cholesterol

High levels of LDL (“bad”) cholesterol are associated with an increased risk of dementia. Diet, exercise, weight control and avoiding smoking will greatly improve your cholesterol levels. But if you need more help, ask your doctor about medication.

2.11 Consider low-dose aspirin

Some observational studies suggest that low-dose aspirin may reduce the risk of dementia, especially vascular dementia. Ask your doctor if you are a candidate.

2.12 Emotional care

People who are anxious, depressed, sleep-deprived, or exhausted tend to score poorly on cognitive function tests. Poor scores don’t necessarily predict risk of cognitive decline in old age, but good mental health and good sleep are certainly important goals.

3. Points to note when applying ways to develop thinking ability 

In today’s era, thinking ability is not only the deciding factor for personal success but also the foundation for professional and social development. To improve thinking ability, many different methods have been researched and applied. However, applying these methods requires a deep understanding and attention to several important points to ensure maximum effectiveness. Below are points to keep in mind when you apply How to develop thinking ability.

  • Identify clear goals: Before applying any method, it is important that you have a clear goal of what you want to achieve. Understanding your goals will help you choose the most suitable method.
  • Consistency: Regular practice is the key to developing thinking ability. Irregular efforts may not yield significant results, so it’s worth integrating these methods into your daily routine.
  • Flexibility: Each situation may require different thinking approaches. Be flexible in adopting different approaches and adapt them as needed to fit your specific needs or challenges.
  • Reflect and evaluate: After applying a particular method, take time to reflect on its effectiveness. Evaluate whether it helps improve your thinking skills and adjust as needed.
  • Seek feedback: Engage with others who can provide constructive feedback on your progress. This can bring new perspectives and help you refine your thinking strategies.
  • Concentration and attention: Developing thinking abilities often requires intense concentration. Minimizing distractions and practicing mindfulness can enhance the effectiveness of your efforts.
  • Patience and persistence: Developing thinking skills is a gradual process. Be patient and persistent, because improvement will come with time and continued effort.

In short, developing your brain’s thinking ability is not just about practicing a skill but also about building a solid foundation for creativity, problem solving, and decision making. By the method of applying the Ways to increase thinking ability like continuous learning, and creativity, we can greatly improve our thinking ability. Most importantly, it is necessary to remain persistent and open to new approaches, while evaluating and adapting strategies to individual needs. When you invest in developing your thinking, you not only improve your ability to process information but also open up new opportunities in life and work.

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Nguyễn Thị Thu Uyên

Nguyễn Thị Thu Uyên

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