Basics of Brain health ( Interaction & Sleep)
Well, here's the continuation of the Basics of Brain Health with pillars 3 and 4
3) Staying connected and Interactive
Studies have shown that those with the most interaction with their community and had a rich social network provides sources of support, reduces stress and helps in combating depression and increases intellectual capacities.
Here’s how you can keep yourself interactive
· Branch out - share hobbies, cultural activities, join clubs.
· Be ready to learn – expand your interests
· Adopt a pet – engage in love and happiness and a sense of constant responsibility (it’s the best ice breaker believe me)
Sleep is important to a number of brain functions such as nerve communications and nerve cell regeneration. Recent findings also state that sleep helps in removing toxins that are accumulated when one is awake. Sleep energizes one to improve mood and enhances the immune system, reduces the buildup of abnormal proteins and disease resistance
Sleep patterns changes with age, most adults need 7-9 hours of sleep a night, but after 60 the nighttime tends to be shorter and the quality of sleep reduces more likely due to medications.
Here are a few tips to help you have a good night’s sleep
b) Exposure to sunlight regulates your sleep/wake cycles
c) Sleep affects weight so modulate your food intake
d) Avoid electronics in the bedroom
Relaxation is a state of managing your stress and anxiety and feeling calm.
And how can relaxation improve brain health?
Well, here’s how it helps
· Lowers the heart rate, blood pressure and breathing rate
· Reduces muscle tension and chronic pain
· Improves concentration and mood
Stay tuned for the final two pillars of Brain Health which play a very important role
1. Brain health guide : Cleveland clinic
2.https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/relaxation#:~:text=Relaxation%20reduces%20stress%20and%20the,muscle%20tension%20and%20chronic%20pain
