Four Strategies for Boosting Memory

Many of us take our memory for granted. We just assume that it’ll be there when we need it. That, however, is not always the case. While some people are naturally blessed with a great memory, for most people, it’s something that they need to work on continuously.

And there are good reasons for doing so. Improving your memory not only boosts your cognitive function and problem-solving skills, but it also allows you to access those happy memories. You’ll have plenty of blessed moments in this life; it would be nice to remember them!

Boosting one’s memory is the same as enhancing one's overall health and fitness. There’s no rocket science required. It just comes down to doing the basics. Below, we’ll outline some of the best strategies for nudging your memory in the right direction. 

Get Active

Is there anything that physical activity can’t do? Not only will it help improve your overall physical conditioning, but it can also do wonders for your brain. Working up a sweat helps improve blood flow to the brain, which can help improve memory. On top of that, you’ll be giving yourself a healthy happiness boost, too — exercise elevates the body’s serotonin and endorphin levels (the happy chemicals). The bottom line? It’s worthwhile overcoming that “I don’t want to do it” feeling and simply getting yourself into the gym.

Supporting Brain Health

Everyone knows the impact that fast food and other unhealthy ingredients can have on the body. What’s less widely known is the negative impact that these ingredients can have on the brain. An easy way to boost your brain and improve your memory is to give it what it needs to be at its best. This could involve taking creatine, maca, or coluracetam for mental performance, as well as eating brain-boosting foods such as salmon, broccoli and dark chocolate. Ultimately, the adage “you are what you eat” applies to your brain just as much as your body, so make sure you’re giving it the right substances.

Challenge Your Brain

Your brain is like any other muscle; if you don’t use it, you’ll lose it — or at least, it won’t be as strong as it could be. You wouldn’t expect your arms to be strong if you didn’t put them through their paces from time to time. Your brain is the same. It needs a workout! Look at building some brain-challenge activities into your routine, such as Sudoku, crosswords or games of chess, to boost your memory power while also having fun. 

Be Present

Finally, an underrated way to improve your memory is to work on being more present in your day-to-day life. You’re much more likely to forget something if you do it on autopilot. Think back to all the things you remember, and you’ll notice that they were periods when you were truly engaged. You can boost your ‘present moment’ engagement by meditating, raising your awareness and keeping a daily journal. Those things alone will go a long way towards making more events memorable.