4 simple brain exercises to improve focus, keep memory sharp

Puzzles like Sudoku are a great way of stimulating analytical thinking and improving pattern-recognition (Image: Canva)

• Simple daily exercises like deep breathing and mental math boost brain health
• Word games and Sudoku improve focus, verbal fluency, and analytical thinking

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Over-stimulation from multiple gadgets and screens in this fast-paced world is a result of the brain being bombarded with a plethora of information. While you must continue to focus on physical well-being, mental fitness mustn't be left behind.

The brain also needs exercises that can aid in enhancing concentration and memory, along with creativity and emotional balance. Simple and effective exercises can help in improving cognitive flexibility and strengthening problem-solving abilities. They also aid in alleviating stress and cultivating sharper thinking. Other persons include sharper thinking and better decision making skills.

4 simple brain health exercises

Here are some exercises that you can include in your routine by investing a few minutes each morning:

Also read | Neuroscientist shares 3 powerful exercises to grow new brain cells

Deep breathing exercises

You can consider beginning your morning with slow, deep breathing. It not only increases the oxygen supply to the brain but also reduces the stress hormones, thus improving focus. Five minutes daily of mindful breathing practice can cultivate productive thoughts and also aid in managing your emotions more effectively.

Mental math challenges

Don't take out your phone out for every minor calculation. Simple sums in daily life, like adding up to check your bill or checking the change, shouldn’t require a calculator. You can try doing these in your head, and trusting your results more than the phone’s. This can help improve concentration and also keeps the brain more alert.

Word association games

You can play this by yourself, or with a group of friends. Choose a random word and continue to find words in a chain that are associated with it, like, ‘cloud’, then ‘sky’, ‘airplane’, etc. this can aid in enhancing verbal fluency and help the brain make quicker associations.

Also read | Cognitive doctor reveals 10 morning brain exercises to improve focus

Sudoku

Puzzles like Sudoku are a great way of stimulating analytical thinking and improving pattern-recognition. Spending a few minutes playing Sudoku can improve mental agility and focus. If you’re on your path to digital detox, a book Sudoku puzzles or the ones that appear in newspapers may be chosen.

There are multiple other ways of keeping your brain stimulated like reading aloud, visualisation, and learning new words each day, that can help your concentration abilities.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.