5 Ways to Stay Alert

If you find yourself drawing a blank when the ATM asks for your PIN or when you're trying to recall your mobile number, it's time to start thinking about your mind. Our brain tissue is steadily being chipped away with age and, according to some studies, by brain shrinkers such as cigarettes and stress. The good news is you can give your brain a workout and restore maximum power with these tips:

1 - Take it easy

Chronic exposure to the hormones released during times of stress affects brain function, and prevents the brain from laying down new memory. To relieve stress, practice relaxation techniques like meditation and or yoga.

2 - Work that body

Exercising improves circulation, which may be linked to preserving your brain's sharpness. Ageing shrinks neurons (brain cells) and drains neurotransmitters which communicate between cells, making you forget where you placed your keys. However, studies show that boosting your heart rate can reverse this process to improve memory and overall brain function. Whether it's walking, swimming or gardening, you'll benefit from regular exercise.

3 - Go shopping

In one study, researchers sought to learn why 75-year-old women had better memories than their male counterparts. The reason: Shopping! Study author Professor Guy McKhan, of the Mind/Brain Institute at Johns Hopkins University, says shopping requires more physical and mental activity than sitting around watching golf. Making decisions on what to purchase and doing quick calculations help keep the brain active.

4 - Appreciate art

Taking in new, complex images can help slow natural brain deterioration. Scientists at the University of California found that the brain first detects recognizable patterns, then starts to break down different and new elements. So, instead of enjoying a familiar view, expose your eyes and brain to a painting that actively engages your mind. Download a Kadinsky painting as your desktop wallpaper - each time you look at the abstract artist's work, it'll be like doing 10 brain push-ups.

5 - Mental gymnastics

The next time your boss hands you a difficult project, thanks her/him. Studies show that having a mentally demanding job in your 30s to 50s may protect you from Alzheimer's disease. After studying the work tasks of people with and without the disease, researchers found that those who were Alzheimer's free were more likely to have held careers that needed creative thinking or juggling various responsibilities. Daily mental workouts may help the brain build more neural connections, and this may help delay the disease's onset. If your job is not mentally challenging enough, try learning a new language, playing

mahjong and doing puzzles.