Intelligent computation is a necessity of everyday life. We continually use our memory, attention and other methods of cognition to execute daily operations. The mind is like a muscle in that it becomes stronger with exercise and training. Your brain, however, is an organ that requires the appropriate mix of nutrients to perform. By attending to both through application and diet, you can strengthen your mental faculties and enhance your overall ability to think.
Mind Mapping
Mind mapping is a method of clarifying ideas. It is a way of enhancing your perception by writing out a concept or topic in symbolic form. To create a mind map, start by constructing an illustration that represents the underlying theme of your topic. Put this representation down on a sheet of paper or poster board. From it, draw a series of lines emanating in several directions. On these lines, write subdivisions of this central idea. From each of these secondary ideas, draw other lines on which to further simplify the concept. Continue to do this until you have reached the most fundamental parts of your subject of focus. Use crayons or colored pencils to draw the lines in different shades and designs. This exercise helps you to develop a greater understanding of the "whole" by breaking it down into its parts.
Healthy Fats
Fat is vital to the brain. When it comes to neurological function, however, not all fats are created equal. High among brain-enhancing nutrients is a list of unsaturated fats, known as omega-3s. Omega-3s are found in many types of fish, as well as walnuts, oregano and flax seed products.
Concentration
Concentration is a useful ability to develop. Increasing your ability to concentrate will allow you to focus on a given task while ignoring irrelevant interference. After reading an article in a magazine or newspaper, attempt to explain what you've read in as few words as possible. You can write down this summary on paper or speak it aloud to yourself or another person. Practice this and you will enhance your ability to focus in on key points when consuming information.
"Good" Carbs
Complex carbohydrates, those that are digested slowly by the body are excellent nutrients for brain health. Simple carbohydrates, those that are heavily refined and processed, cause biochemical changes that promote mood swings that affect thought and behavior. Some rich sources of complex "carbs" are whole grain breads, sweet potatoes, beans and corn.
