The brain is one of the most important organs in the body. It is responsible for running all body functions even while you sleep. Maintaining your brain with simple exercises can increase brain size and give you an extra buffer against cognitive decline, according to Jeanna Bryner, in the September 2010 issue of "LiveScience." Simple games, crosswords or other puzzles and reading can help keep your brain engaged and active.
Reading
Reading engages the brain on several levels. Reading stimulates the left middle and superior temporal regions of the brain, according to a study by C.J. Price and colleagues published in the December 1994 issue of "Brain." It also shapes the brain and develops cognitive reserves, according to the August 7, 2007, issue of "The New York Times." Having a little extra cognitive reserve also shields you from the effects of brain injuries.
Reading certain types of literature, such as Shakespeare, has been found to excite positive brain activity. Functional shifts in literature cause sudden peaks in brain activity because the brain has to work to understand the context of the sentence. It is like working a jigsaw puzzle that excites the brain causing a burst of activity.
Memory Games
Memory games include picture memory, picture matching and word match. These simple brain games can be done anytime by anyone with a few minutes to spare. Picture memory involves studying a picture for 30 seconds and then identifying where small pieces of the image would fit. Picture matching is done on a grid with all the pictures turned to the blank side. You can only turn over two cards at a time. The goal is to match all similar images. Word match follows the same procedure as picture match, except it uses words.
Hand Switch
Instead of using your dominant hand to do tasks, switch hands. If you use your right hand to hold the computer mouse, try using your left hand. This neural building exercise keeps the brain active and creates new nerve cells in the brain, according to the Franklin Institute.
Neurobics
Neurobics are simple brain exercises that involve the senses. It uses the five physical senses in new ways to cause the brain to grow new cells, according to the Franklin Institute. These easy exercises can be done anywhere and anytime during the day. They are a great way to incorporate brain exercises into your daily routine. Some neurobic exercises include dressing with your eyes closed, eating with the opposite hand, shopping at a new grocery store and taking a new route to work.
