7 Ways to Improve Your Memory

The human mind is a remarkable thing. In many ways we could consider it the original super computer, capable of astonishing feats when it’s working optimally. Some of the secrets of getting the most out of our minds are quite simple to execute once we are aware of them. Have you ever wished your memory was more sharp? Check out these 7 ways to improve your memory, and you may never find yourself wondering where you left your car keys again!

1. Cut Stress. Depression, stress and anxiety all tax the same area of your brain that is responsible for memory. This means when anyone of these things are running rampant in your life your memory will suffer, sometimes greatly.
Finding a healthy way to relieve stress or elevate depression will not only be felt in an overall boost of quality of life, but can also give an almost magical improvement to memory. Some methods that have worked again and again: meditation, yoga or even spending relaxing time with a pet. Give these a try and see what you think.
2. Get the Blood Flowing. Exercise isn’t only great for your body, but it’s equally good for your long and short term memory. Get moving, keep your blood flowing in a healthy manner consistently and what you thought was a bad memory will likely be replaced by a more youthful mind that is less prone to forgetfulness.
Cardiovascular exercise is king in granting this benefit so running, swimming, riding the bike or clocking in on the rowing machine are all good choices here.

3. Image Association. This is a trick used by all of the world’s top memory contest winners, so you know if they endorse it we should take it very seriously! Instead of thinking of words and numbers when we try to remember something, make an effort to think in visual terms. By associating what we would like to remember with images, we are much, much more likely to remember what we wish to without struggling. It’s a law of how our minds work that can be easily used to improve our memories in seconds. Get in the habit of drawing pictures in your mind and a memory contest may be in your near future too!
4. Supplement Smartly. While many supplements claim they offer easy ways to improve your memory, the truth is a bit more complicated. Only a few dietary supplements have passed the test of being both safe and effective once they’ve been researched heavily by unbiased sources. The best by far available today is Ginko Biloba. Ginko Biloba is affordable, safe and powerful. Be sure to allow it at least a few weeks of daily use before you expect to see results. 120mg a day is a good starting dose.
5. Do Puzzles. Brain games like word puzzles, Sudoku and crosswords are not only a fun way to pass a little time they are also a good memory work out. Do them often enough and your memory will respond to them just as well as your body would going to the gym. If you are so inclined there’s more than a few online brain games that have been developed specifically to boost memory and other areas of cognition. A quick Google search will give you a whole assortment to choose from, some free and some not.

6. Eat More Fish and Legumes. Making a few simple diet improvements is a sure way to improve memory if you aren’t eating enough fish and legumes. How much is enough? Think one serving of legumes (like beans or lentils) a day and four servings of fish a week. Healthy fat containing fish like salmon, mackerel and anchovies are best, though other fish are also good in a pinch. Getting a memory boost from fish is classic advice that’s still sound today, so don’t ignore it!
7. Sleep More. Lack of adequate sleep can have a devastating effect on our memories and other important mental functions. In fact not sleeping well one night can take up to three good night’s sleep to recover from. If you are hoping to boost memory being sure to get a solid eight or more hours of uninterrupted sleep a night is absolutely essential, Be sure your room is cool, dark and free of distractions like the television or music playing when it’s time for sleep. Repeat this for a week and don’t be surprised if you feel reborn! Sleep well and watch your memory improve effortlessly.