Top 7 Tips To Keep Your Mind Challenged

Even at age 60, 70, or 80, the brain is a work in progress. It needs constant simulation to stay mentally sharp. That's why challenging activities are your brain’s best friends. In fact, the more you can keep your brain doing things - reading, writing, traveling, learning new information - the more resistant your brain will be to the effects of aging. Here are some suggestions to keep your mind challenged.

1. Turn Off The Television
   
   TV is really mindless. Studies found that people who watched just 15 minutes of television had diminished brain-wave activity, an indication that their minds were turning off.
   
   
2. Write something
   
   Anytime you pick up a pen instead of the telephone, you help to keep your mind sharp. Writing clarifies thoughts, improves logic, and strengthens memory. Take a few minutes to write at least one letter a week to a friend or relative. Or write a letter to the editor or a note to a manufacturer, evaluating a product you recently bought.
   
   
3. Take Part In Civilized Debate
   
   Debate is a terrific way to strengthen your logic, particularly if you can practice arguing both sides of an issue. For fun, ask a friend to debate a controversial issue like Medicare reform with you. Each of you can take a few minutes to jot down 10 statements supporting or opposing the issue. Swap lists and take turns trying to find logical gaps in the other person’s argument.
   
   
4. Tongue Twisters
   
   Tongue twisters not only improve speech but also help improve concentration by exercising circuits between brain cells. At least once a day, take a minute to practice your favorite tongue twister. Try saying this one five times in a row: Fresh fried fish don’t flip like fresh fish flip.
   
   
5. Put A New Twist On Old Games
   
   When playing Scrabble, for example, require that each word have a minimum number of letters. When doing a jigsaw puzzle, try turning over all pieces and then put it all together from the blank side. These added challenges will stimulate your imagination, focus your concentration, and put your logical skills to the test.
   
   
6. Take Up An Instrument
   
   Playing music brings an enormous number of skills into play, from improving coordination and concentration to fostering your creative instincts. Just playing an instrument for 10 to 15 minutes a day can give your brain a good workout.
   
   
7. Allow Yourself To Shift Gears
   
   If your favorite hobby seems a bit stale, your mind may be getting weary, too. So try something new. If you tire of woodworking, why not try sculpting with clay? Certainly, different hobbies require different skills, but you need to be open to change if you want to stay mentally sharp.

Raymond Lee is one of the foremost experts in the health and fitness industry and is the Founder of Bodyfixes Group specializing in body health, muscle development and dieting. He is currently the author of the latest edition of "Neck Exercises and Workouts." Visit http://www.bodyfixes.com for more information.