While most people are aware of the health benefits of physical exercise, that is probably less true of brain exercises. Brain training can improve brain function, which is also hugely important for mental health and overall well-being. It’s definitely possible to improve cognitive ability and mental dexterity – and various rehab therapies can help.

Let’s see how you can improve your brain function.

Which Exercises Are Best For The Brain?

It might sound odd, but physical exercise is good for brain function. A physical work-out moves oxygenated blood around the body, including the brain. Taking a brisk walk in the fresh air is a great way to clear your head.

Breathing exercises and mediation are related ways to improve brain function as they can help engage new neural pathways. This can lead to improved self-awareness and mental flexibility.

Elderly man playing chess with female nurse during brain exercises

Learning something new is high up on the list of ways to exercise the brain. Whether it’s a new language, a new computer skill or learning a musical instrument, such activities aid brain function. They stretch you to think in new and different ways. Research shows that people who learn a new skill are more likely to experience memory improvements.

Another great brain exercise is to try and perform tasks with your non-dominant hand. This can be quite challenging at first, as it forces you to think carefully about all the movements you make. Try brushing your teeth or using the mouse on a computer with your non-dominant hand. It’s also a nice sense of achievement when you see how you gradually improve with practice.

Never underestimate the value of social interaction as a brain exercise. Talking to others keeps you mentally agile and interested in other people. After all, humans are social animals and were designed to communicate with each other. Social activities where you can enjoy a chat and a laugh can help slow the onset of diseases like dementia.

Number games such as sudoku, board games, crossword puzzles and other fun activities will help keep your brain in trim. Reading, writing, researching, and communicating are further ways to keep you mentally agile.  

What are the effects of exercise on the brain?

Aerobic exercises bump up your heart rate, increase blood flow to the brain and give it more nutrients and oxygen. This process induces the release of beneficial proteins in the brain, keeping neurons (brain cells) healthy. Healthy neurons are fundamental to brain health and physical therapy can boost them and help keep your mind sharp. Rehab and physical therapy combined with social interaction delay brain ageing.

Brain exercises at Haym Salomon Home

Our highly skilled staff at Haym Salomon Home for Nursing & Rehabilitation in Brooklyn NY work to improve brain function and provide compassionate care for those with neurological problems. We offer rehab therapies that include treating speech, cognitive, communication and swallowing disorders. In addition, we offer therapeutic recreation program that includes games and puzzles.

We understand the importance of individualized brain exercises for maintaining the independence and quality of life of each patient. Contact us or walk in if you would like to find out more about our treatment and restorative therapies. We are here to answer any questions you may have.

This content comprises informative and educational resources only and can not be considered as a substitute for professional health or medical guidance. Reliance on any information provided in this article is solely at your own risk. If you have any inquiries or apprehensions about your medical condition or health goals, talk with a licensed physician or healthcare provider.