The Score Magazine - Archive February 2015 issue! | Page 33

ananya ashok 7 Eat right – and make sure dark chocolate is included Many foods like fish, fruits, and vegetables are good for brain function. Yet, you may be surprised to find that dark chocolate gives your brain a good boost as well. When you eat chocolate, your brain produces dopamine, which helps you learn faster and remember better. Not to mention, chocolate contains flavonols and antioxidants, which also improve your brain functions. So next time you have something difficult to do, make sure you grab a bite or two of dark chocolate! It will actually do you a world of good while putting a smile on your face. 6 Spend time with loved ones If you want optimal cognitive abilities, it’ll greatly help you to have meaningful relationships in life. Conversing with others and engaging with your loved ones helps you think more clearly, and it can also lift your mood. If you are an extrovert, this holds even more weight for you. Being an extrovert myself, I actually use talking to other people as a way to understand and process my own thoughts. 4 Join a brain training program Thankfully or not thankfully, we live in a world where we can train our brain just by sitting and staring at a computer. Although that may not contribute to a healthy physical lifestyle, you could take advantage of websites that are geared to make your mind sharper. Programs like Brain HQ and Lumosity have been making waves in the area of brain training so it may be worth a shot to enroll in one of their programs. 5 Work your body As I hinted earlier, sitting down does not contribute to our physical well-being. Does that matter? Unfortunately, yes because exercise doesn’t just work your body. It also improves the fitness of your brain. Even as little as 20 minutes facilitates information processing and memory functions. But it’s not just that–exercise actually helps your brain create those new neural connections faster. You will learn faster and your alertness level will increase. If joining a gym is a task for you, try a workout DVD. The Score Magazine www.thescoremagazine.com 31