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Mind Fitness…..
Health and fitness isn't just about diet and exercise; the mind can be more than 90% of the solution. I have first hand experience at how my own thought patterns create stress and therefore a lot of tension in my body. And I see it in my clients all the time.
The mind and body are interconnected and therefore emotions play a big part in determining your health status. There are schools of thought (pardon the punJ) that believe disease is caused by thoughts or emotions that weaken the body and allow disease to occur. In a world that is so busy and stressful because of the demands that we place on ourselves, it is essential that we reach a balance.
So there seems to be truth in the saying that a healthy mind is a healthy body! By taking care of you grey matter now, not only will you feel happier and stronger, you can also reduce your chances of memory loss and senility later in life.
Its one thing to rationalise that memory loss is a normal part of aging, it's incredibly alarming when it actually starts happening to you. Constantly misplacing keys and forgetting where the car is parked is just annoying. Drawing total blanks in the middle of conversations on the other hand, is hugely embarrassing. If you can relate, consider trying these grey matter boosters.
Get the blood pumping!
Regular exercise reduces the risk of Alzheimer’s by 40%, according to researchers at Washington University. This is because the number of blood vessels in your brain is increased during a workout session.
Snooze or lose
Getting a good night sleep is vital because it prevents toxic proteins building up in your brain, which can lead to Alzheimer’s. If you struggle to achieve the magic seven to eight hours per night you may benefit going to bed later. Yes, you heard me – later! If you regularly only get five hours sleep, American sleep counsellors recommend going to bed five hours before you need to get up.
Need help getting to sleep? Have a look at some of my previous top tips……
Use it or lose it
Like anything your brain will begin to waste if it’s not put to regular use. Learning something new or using your brain in different ways keeps your neurons firing. Try surprising your brain by getting dressed with your eyes closed or eating with the opposite hand to usual. Playing card games can also give the old cranium processor a workout. Get your friends around for some healthy competition and rest assured you’re helping to look out for their future.
Watch your diet
Eating a healthy diet with lots of fresh fruits and vegetables can help reduce your risk of dementia. Saying that, there have been studies that have found Curcumin, the ingredient that gives turmeric its all important kick, keeps your brain cells clear of plaque. So ordering a dish that’s high in turmeric on your next visit to your favourite curry house can now be a positive!
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