As you sip your hot cup of tea, what’s on your mind? Probably not the thoughts of a healthy brain. After having retired, your work worries are gone. You know have more time and brain space. So, use these newly acquired assets and sow the little seeds of a few good habits. These habits in the later years will give you the fruits of a super healthy brain. And in case you think of ignoring this and keep sipping your tea, remember – “An empty mind is a devil’s workshop.”
Keep stress at bay:
You have thought enough about deadlines, overdue bills, or your kid’s future. Now give it a rest. Because this is your time to decompress and relax. Think only about your healthy brain. Do not let futile thoughts enter your brain, it leads to stress.
This stress hampers your focus and diverts your brain from important matters. As a result, you might start forgetting things or lose your sense of judgment. The way to go is to decrease the quantity of your thoughts. Instead, find better things to do with your time so that the brain won’t get time to switch the overthinking button on.
Socialize with peers:
Raise your hands if your after-retirement plans include lazing around the house the entire day. It is a BIG NO! Because it will eventually leave you feeling lonely which is not the best emotion for a healthy brain.
For your brain to stay healthy, you must continue to meet and interact with new people even after retiring. When you socialize with people, it lightens your mood and makes you feel happy. Result- a healthy brain with a lower risk of dementia. So, off the couch and to the garden.
Do something new:
It is a scientifically proven fact. When your brain is exposed to an unfamiliar situation, the neurons start working hard. This is like a workout session for the entire brain. And needless to say, such workouts make the brain healthy.
Take out that list of things you wanted to learn but could not due to a packed schedule. Or you can build new hobbies for yourself. And if nothing comes to your mind, break into a little impromptu dance. It makes your brain release a lot of happy hormones.
Treat for a healthy brain:
This one is for the foodies. Grab your leafy green vegetables, nuts, seeds, whole grains, berries, and a little dark chocolate. Now, put your cooking hats on and whip out yummy recipes. As you do so, you are engaging your brain. Plus you will also be providing it with nutrients to keep it healthy.
Playing (healthy) brain games:
Think of all the puzzles, sudoku, and word plays that come in the newspaper. You have been ignoring them for years, now it’s time to pick them up.
Playing such games helps in reducing the brain’s cognitive decline and enhances short-term memory. They also help in relieving anxiety which in turn keeps the brain healthy.
You have come a long way and still have a long way to go. So, make sure to keep your brain in good health. Make life a joyride even after retirement.
