But the potential
benefits are worth effort. A mental fitness program
will help you improve your memory increase your
ability to think faster and to help you be more
in all areas of your life. |
Scientific
research supports the “use it or lose it”
philosophy for the brain, just like a muscle.
In a special report titled “Improving Memory”
by Havard University, the report states: “there
is now substantial evidence that the brain is
somewhat like a muscle: the more you use it, the
stronger it gets – and the longer it stays
strong. Another report by National Institute of
Aging states: “studies have shown that engaging
in intellectually stimulating activities is associated
with a reduced risk of Alzheimer’s Disease”.
Science now shows that loss of memory and other
cognitive functions, starts after the age of 25
so the sooner you start the better, but it’s
never too late. |
Scores
of books, videos, Websites and seminars are devoted
to memory enhancement. The steps below summarise
the main points of most techniques. |
| 1. Make sure you’re
alert and attentive before trying to memorize anything. |
| 2. Understand
the material rather than merely memorizing, if it’s
the type that requires deeper comprehension. |
| 3. Look for larger
patterns or ideas, and organize pieces of information
into meaningful groups. |
| 4. Link the new
bits of knowledge with what you already know. Place
what you learn into context with the rest of your
knowledge, looking for relationships between ideas. |
| 5. Engage your
visual and auditory senses by using drawings, charts
or music to aid memory. |
| 6. Use mnemonics
devices such as formulas or rhymes that serves as
memory aids. For example, use the acronym ‘HOMES’
to memorize the Great Lakes (Huron, Ontario, Michigan,
Erie and Superior). |
| 7. Repeat and
review what you’ve learned as many times as
you can. Apply it or use it in conversation, as
continual practice is the key to remembering things
in the long term. |
| More tips |
- Things that interest you are
easier to remember. Try to develop an interest
in what you’re memorizing.
|
- Your memory and thinking will
function much better if you’re in good
health, well-rested and properly hydrated.
|
- Try writing down or reciting
aloud what you’ve memorized. This can
help etch it into your mind.
|
