Want to keep your brain young? Neurosurgeon recommends 3 simple daily practices

Age doesn’t have to bring cognitive decline. Learn how to boost your brain health with these easy and effective lifestyle changes (Image: Canva)

When it comes to fitness goals, your brain health shouldn’t be overlooked. Mental decline with age is common, but there are ways you can keep your brain young. Dr Prashant Katakol, a neurosurgeon with over three decades of experience, shared in his Instagram video three simple lifestyle changes that can help improve your brain health significantly.

How to keep your brain young

Dr Prashant shared that after spending most of his life in hospitals, he has retired to focus on helping people stay healthy and happy. His recommendations for a young brain include:

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Learning a new skill: The doctor advised keeping your brain sharp by putting it to use in a variety of challenging ways. "Habit number one, use it or lose it. Your brain thrives on challenges. So learn a new skill every day. Solve a puzzle or take a different route for your walk on a daily basis", he said.

Practicing breathwork: The neurologist explained that breathing can be a game changer for many. He said, “Habit number two, breathe as though your life depends on it, for it does. I teach my patients a simple yogic breathing exercise: sit in a comfortable position, focus in between your eyebrows, take in your breath for 4 counts, hold your breath for 4 counts, and breathe out for 4 counts. Calming your mind makes it younger.”

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A post shared by Prashant Katakol | Neurosurgeon & Yoga Teacher (@dr.katakol)

Forging social connections: Third but not the least, he highly recommended forming friendships which can come as stress busters. "Build your circle and not just your muscles. Isolation hurts the brain as much as bad food does. So call a friend, join a group, and keep laughing together. I thought medicine alone was the answer, now I don't think so", he added.

In the end, Dr Prashant said, "Everyday small steps to keep your mind engaged, your breathing under control, and your friendships alive are my prescriptions for a young brain."