BE HAPPIER HEALTHIERTM
How to Grow Your Brain
Did you know
that it’s possible to actually grow your brain? Isn’t this great?! This is due
to processes such as neurogenesis, synaptogenesis, angiogenesis, myelination,
and neuroplasticity. Neurogenesis is the brains ability to grow new neurons,
synaptogenesis is the brains ability to form new synapses, angiogenesis is the
brains ability to create new blood vessels in your brain, and myelination is the
improvement of your brains fatty coating (myelin) of your neurons highway which
helps deliver messages down your brains highway faster. Neuroplasticity is your
brains ability to grow and heal through experience when there is a need to
adapt. By undertaking various activities, and maintaining healthy nutritional
levels, you actually have the ability to grow and improve your brain. Different
activities will help to develop the different areas of your brain.
Synaptogenesis
To increase synaptogenesis,
you should look to learn a new skill such as cooking, learning a language,
learning to play an instrument, or just learning something else that’s new to
you. Another way to increase synaptogenesis is to practice doing something on a
regular basis that you already know how to do, after all practice makes
perfect. These activities will help to strengthen your current synapses and
help you to grow new ones, thus increasing your brains volume.
Myelination
To improve myelination,
consume Omega 3 fatty acids which promote the myelin expression in your brain.
If consuming large amounts of fish such as salmon or sardines is not for you,
then you can take an Omega 3 supplement or eat walnuts which are high in Omega
3’s.
Angiogenesis
To increase
angiogenesis, you will need to undertake some form of vigorous exercise and if
you’re not already then you should add some to your routine. Exercise such as
aerobics, weight training, yoga, Pilates, tai chi, and dancing have been proven
to be beneficial to growing your brain. Exercise also increases your brains
fertilizer, so it’s a win win. Exercise and your brain grows.
Neurogenesis
The best way
to boost neurogenesis is to carry out activities that boost synaptogenesis,
angiogenesis and eat food or take supplements that boost your Omega 3 fatty
acids. Doing all of this will give your brain the best opportunity to be able
to grow, and be healthy, helping it serve you the best it possibly can.
Neuroplasticity
To boost
neuroplasticity, you can play video games such as 3D adventures, puzzles and
rhythm games. You can also learn a new language, make some music, exercise,
travel or do some art. All these activities can help to boost neuroplasticity
and help your brain grow, heal and adapt.
Sleep is
also important to help to grow your brain and you should aim for 7-8 hours a
day, having a bedtime routine can help your body know when it’s sleep time. Too
much stimulation before bed such as through consuming caffeine or looking at an
electronic screen can be detrimental to your sleep quality and length. Sleeping
helps your brain to learn and process information. It also is your best time to
drain toxins and heal from previous activities. Your sleeping space should be
tidy, cleared of clutter, comfortable, have minimal electronic devices and be
dark as possible to get the best quality sleep.
Hope this
article has helped you discover ways that you can actually grow your brain.
Good luck on
your journey to grow your brain, all the best and remember to have fun.