This is supposed to be the most wonderful time of the year, but if you’re not gathering with loved ones and sharing traditions during the holidays, it can get pretty lonely, which isn’t great for the mind or the spirit. Neurologist Dr. Joel Salinas explains that socializing is good for the brain because it stimulates cognitive function and lowers stress hormones like cortisol, which reduces inflammation and blood pressure.
That’s great if you have a solid circle of loved ones to spend time with for the holidays, but not everyone is that lucky. Salinas recommends these six ways to boost your brain and spirits throughout the season, even if you don’t have a strong support network.
- Start a hobby - Learning something new, like an instrument or a language, can trigger new neural connections in the brain, which keep the brain young by engaging different areas. It’s kind of like exercising, if you don’t use certain muscles, they shrink in size and strength, and the more you exercise your mind, the more you reinforce pathways and create connections.
- Work on a puzzle - Challenging yourself with a game can sharpen the mind. Word games like crosswords improve vocabulary and memory recall, while sudoku helps with logical thinking and number pattern recognition.
- Get your groove on - Put on your favorite mood-boosting playlist and have a private dance party, or take dance classes to get the physical, social and cognitive benefits. Dancing helps relieve stress, engage the brain areas associated with pleasure, memory and emotion, plus it’s just fun.
- Embrace technology to connect - If you can’t be with the ones you love during the holidays, take advantage of tech to text, call or video chat with them. That way you still get the social connection that reduces cortisol, stimulates the brain, and increases production of the molecule BDNF, which is known as “Miracle-Gro” for brain cells.
- Find like-minded people - Look for those with similar interests to spend time with. Join a book club, crafting or fitness group or follow your passions to find those who share them.
- Stay active - Find creative ways to get your steps in and keep your body moving. Dr. Salinas points out you only need 3-thousand steps a day to boost your brain, but you get bonus points for activities that also get your heart rate up.
Source: NY Post
Scott's Thoughts:
- Can’t I just say Bah Humbug and be a lonely Grinch instead?
- Hard to get my steps in when it is 20 degrees and up to my butt in snow.
- I am not sure there are many "like minded" people like me. My brain and thoughts are very unique! :)