6 Minutes to a Better Memory
For a quick and easy boost to your brainpower this weekend, pull down the shades, close your eyes, and catch some daytime ZZZs.
People who take daytime naps outperform non-nappers on memory exercises. And, surprisingly, a mere 6 minutes of shut-eye is enough to refresh the mind.
The Shut-Eyes Have It
How does a quick catnap power up your thinker? Seems the mere act of falling asleep triggers a brain-boosting neurobiological process that remains effective regardless of how long you snooze. Trouble sleeping? Take the RealAge Sleep Assessment for insights.
3 More Ways to Fight the Fog
Go ahead. Make like a battery and recharge. And while you're at it, here are a few more ways to sharpen your wit:
- Flex it. You've got to use your brain to make it stronger. Try this fun memory-strengthening exercise.
- Feed it. These folate-rich foods may protect your brain just like a bike helmet.
- Socialize it. Here's why staying in touch with friends fires up your neurons.
Read this tip to find out how long the mind-boosting powers of a nap can last.
An ultra short episode of sleep is sufficient to promote declarative memory performance. Lahl, O. et al., Journal of Sleep Research 2008 Mar;17(1):3-10.
