Seven Things You Can Do to Improve Your Memory

Do you often forget where you left your keys when you were just holding them 5 minutes ago? There are many books, websites, items being sold, and seminars out to target people who want to improve their memories. But wait! Don't waste your money! Why? Because I'm here to reveal to you the main strategies to keeping your brain as sharp as a cutting knife.

Memory loss is mainly caused by the decreased blood flow to the brain and the loss of brain cells. Of course, it's normal to become a bit forgetful as we grow older. But often times, we're forgetful due to lack of sleep, depression and/or anxiety.

1. Getting enough sleep each night is important. Try to get at least 8 hours of sleep each night. And not only that, but try to get 8 hours of sleep without any interruptions. If you're constantly waking up in the middle of the night, you're not getting a full 8 hours of sleep. And lying on the bed doesn't count as sleeping!

2. Water is the staple of life. By being dehydrated, you aren't allowing your brain to work at it's full potential because you're focusing on the need to be hydrated.
Drinking a lot of water helps kep you hydrated, which allows you to be able to concentrate a lot better.

3. Do cardiovascular exercise daily. Not only will it increase blood flow to your brain but it's healthy and will keep you fit! Cardiovascular exercises include walking, jogging, swimming, and biking.

4. It's important that we challenge our brains daily. This can be done by reading or learning new things every day. In addition, completing puzzles such as sudoku or stimulating the brain by memorizing phone numbers helps as well. Challenging the brain daily prevents memory loss and improves cognitive clarity. In fact, it can help with the growth of new brain pathways.

5. Gingko has had a reputation of benefiting the mental process. It is said that ginkgo boosts circulation to the brain. Two common forms that ginkgo can be found as are tea and herbal extracts, so drink up!

6. As strange as it sounds, turning your head upside down daily helps too! Why? Because it gets blood flowing to the brain. It's so obvious, and yet none of us even thinks about making it a daily routine.

7. You can also use external aids to help you remember better. For instance, write on your hand, use the alarm clock on your watch or cellular phone to remind you to do something. Another smart thing you can do is write on post it notes and stick them on the fridge or anywhere conspicuous. You can also put important things, such as car keys, in obvious spots like the front door. And last but not least, make lists so that you don't forget so easily!

By following these simple steps, your memory will surely improve in no time!