5 simple habits to keep your brain sharp

Improving brain health is now a multi-million-dollar industry. There are expensive supplements in pharmacy aisles. Exotic superfoods, flown across continents, are displayed in grocery stores. Cutting-edge technology is advertised on the internet. And yet, the most powerful tools for keeping your brain sharp aren't sold in stores. They're already within your reach. In fact, you don’t have to spend a dime on them. Here are some science-backed strategies, aka habits, that will keep your brain young and sharp.

Chronic stress floods the brain with cortisol, a hormone that, over time, can speed up cognitive ageing. This will impact your brain health and also your memory. While everyday stress is a part of life, persistent stress can negatively affect your brain. How can you overcome stress? Set aside at least 10 minutes a day for mindfulness practices. It could be yoga, journaling, breathing exercises, or even something as simple as a daily stroll.

Regardless of how much you enjoy sweet treats, your brain does not benefit from them. The same goes for alcohol. Both can impair memory consolidation and focus in the short term. In the long term, they can even result in brain shrinkage, particularly in key areas such as the hippocampus. Sugar is linked with inflammation and insulin resistance, while chronic alcohol consumption directly damages neural tissue.

Here’s what your brain truly appreciates – novelty. Learning something new physically rewires your brain and forms new connections. This is exactly why you need to challenge your brain with unfamiliar activities. Even simple things like using your non-dominant hand may help. Try learning a new language, picking a new route while jogging, joining dance classes, or trying a new recipe. All of these can improve your cognitive performance.

Read that again. You have to protect sleep at all costs. Sleep is non-negotiable for better brain health. When you sleep, your brain clears metabolic waste, including beta-amyloid, a protein linked to Alzheimer’s disease. You should aim for at least 7–9 hours of sleep every night. Poor sleep is linked to faster cognitive decline. Ensure you get restful sleep every night. One way to improve your sleep is by going to bed at the same time each night and getting some morning sunlight. Soaking up the sun for a few minutes will help reset your circadian rhythm.

There is a reason you feel relieved after meeting a friend. Humans are social beings, and these connections strengthen the brain’s neural networks. Regular, meaningful interaction with others can protect your brain and help slow cognitive decline. Make it a habit to spend time with your loved ones at least once a week. You can also volunteer for a good cause or join a group where you can work on your skills or hobbies.