10 Exercises to Improve Memory By Bill Hodge

If you are like many people, you are constantly looking for different exercises to improve memory. Do you constantly forget to pick up things at the grocery store? Do you always forget where you put your wallet? These can be frightening experiences if they happen on a regular basis. Luckily, the mind is like a muscle; we can work it and build it up so it stays strong and active.

1) Physical Exercise: When you are fit on the outside, you'll be fit on the inside. Keeping physically active will help your mind stay focused and strong.

2) Memory Games: There are many games you can play that test your memory. Lay some cards face up on the table and look at them for 20 seconds; turn them over and see if you can remember the order.

3) Crosswords and word games: These puzzles are great to do with your morning coffee or afternoon tea. They are usually included with your newspaper, or you can buy an assortment from your local dollar store.

4) Learn something new: This will keep your brain stimulated. Try a cooking class or take up a second language. Learn something that you've always wanted to, but never had the time.

5) Read books: Reading stimulating books that make you think will keep your mind focused. Mysteries, personal development, and religious books are all good choices.

6) Word of the Day: Each morning, open up your dictionary at random and pick a word. Write it down in a journal with the meaning, and a sentence. Practice it throughout the day. If you do this every single day, you will have learned over 365 new words in a year.

7) Online games: There are many memory games online and most of them are free. Mazes, puzzles, even Tetris will help keep you active.

8) Engage the senses: You always remember more when you can see, touch, taste, smell and hear.

9) Go for a nature walk: When you can walk on the beach and hear the waves and seagulls; or go through the forest and see the wildlife and old trees, your mind will relax and be better able to remember things.

10) Reduce stress levels: When you are too stressed, your mind can't focus and you will be in a constant state of panic and disarray. Learn to handle the situations better, or stay away from people who are causing you stress.

When you do at least some of these exercises every day, you will notice an improvement in your memory almost immediately. Set yourself some goals and challenge yourself to meet and exceed them. You'll be amazed at what your mind can do once you give it a chance and work at it. It doesn't take a lot of time; even just 15 minutes a day can make a huge difference.

Eating right is also important, so get those fruits and vegetables in. Leafy green lettuce, broccoli and spinach are all great choices. Choose fruits such as pomegranate, watermelon and mangos. Omega 3's like salmon and ground flaxseed are essential as well.

Memory is something that most of us take for granted, until it isn't there anymore. Contrary to popular belief, brain cells do not disintegrate as we age. It is up to you to make sure you do everything you can to keep your mind active and alert, no matter how old you are. When you exercise your mind every day you will live a happier, more productive life. You will be able to enjoy your family and grandchildren for many years to come.