We are living in an age where information abounds, too much of it even. Yet learning may not have much to do with how much we are exposed to-although that is key- but how much is retained. A brain like a sieve, where what goes in comes out, is no good for its master. Brain exercises for improved retention make for efficiency and less stress for learners and facilitators alike.
Use it or lose it
Puzzles, Sudoku, memory card games. Nothing more to add here, you get the point. Just add whatever exercises your brain in a non-threatening way, with lots of fun included.
Tutoring. When you teach you learn. In fact, you will realize how little you know when you try to explain to someone. And that puts you on a quest for more information…hopefully.
Mindfulness and meditation can reduce mental clutter and improve focus and memory. Memorizing scripture is a core exercise in our home school.
Learn something new. Studies have demonstrated the benefits of making new pathways in the brain. Conquering new territory adds satisfaction and a purpose to life.
Physical exercise. Aerobic exercises like swimming, cycling, running supply more oxygen to the brain. This increased blood flow delivers more oxygen and nutrients, supporting brain function and potentially enhancing mental clarity, memory, and cognitive performance.
Healthy diet and hydration. A diet which includes blueberries, nuts, and fatty fish -good ‘brain’ foods-is good exercise for improved retention. Water serves a number of functions to keep us going, including aiding in optimal cognitive abilities.
Memory techniques and mnemonics– acronyms, vizualization association methods are good brain exercises for improved retention. Silly songs even. It helps lock stuff in your memory for retrieval later.
Getting adequate sleep consolidates memory.
Journaling and note-taking. Writing things down especially bullet journaling jolts/prompts the memory later. The physical act of writing is good for critical thinking.
Regular reading improves focus and retention. Ever had an experience where something is just at the border of your retrieval vision and you can still vizualise the page you read it from?
Social interaction and conversation is good for sounding out ideas, getting different perspectives. Just the act of organizing your thoughts into logical and coherent sentences strengthen the brain. That is why social isolation is a form of torture.
I’m just picturing how an unused room soon builds up cobwebs. Wouldn’t that happen to an ‘unused’ brain too? Challenge yourself to retain most of what you learn!
