In modern society, as the pace of life quickens and the pressures of work and study increase, more and more people are starting to pay attention to their cognitive abilities.
The phrase “the more you use your brain, the sharper it becomes” has almost become a motto for self-motivation for many.
But is this really the case? Scientific research may provide an unexpected answer, and the importance of a healthy lifestyle has been re-emphasized.
Although the brain can indeed be exercised to some extent through learning and thinking, this exercise is not limitless.
Overusing the brain, especially through prolonged periods of high-intensity thinking, can not only fail to make a person smarter but may also lead to fatigue, decreased attention, and even trigger anxiety and depression.
This is analogous to the saying “extreme situations lead to opposite outcomes.”
What is the key to maintaining or even enhancing cognitive abilities? The answer is: a healthy lifestyle.
This may sound somewhat clichéd, but it is indeed crucial for brain health.
A balanced diet provides the necessary nutrients for the brain.
Omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, vitamin B groups, and others are the guardians of brain health.
Secondly, moderate exercise can promote blood circulation, improve oxygen supply to the brain, and help maintain cognitive functions.
Additionally, sufficient sleep is also indispensable for memory consolidation and for clearing waste products from the brain.
Besides these basic lifestyle habits, reducing stress is another aspect that cannot be ignored.
Prolonged exposure to high-pressure situations releases large amounts of stress hormones, which are harmful to brain health.
Therefore, learning to relax, practicing meditation, or engaging in other stress-relief activities is very helpful for maintaining a good cognitive state.
Of course, this does not mean we should give up using our brains.
On the contrary, moderate brain activities, such as reading, writing, and solving puzzles, can stimulate connections between neurons and enhance the brain’s connectivity.
The key is to find a balance—sufficiently exercising the brain while preventing the negative effects of overuse.
To maintain or even enhance cognitive abilities, merely “using your brain” is far from enough.
Building a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, moderate exercise, sufficient sleep, and effective stress reduction, is the true golden rule that can help us reach our goals.
So, next time you want to challenge yourself, why not start by adjusting your lifestyle habits!
