The human brain is an extraordinary organ, boasting around 100 billion nerve cells that collaborate seamlessly to enhance your cognitive agility and speed. However, like other parts of your body, the brain’s efficiency might diminish with age. You might start relying more on notes, miss appointments, or need more effort to keep up with conversations or television programs.
Fortunately, the potential exists to train your brain just as you would your muscles.
Hermundur Sigmundsson, a professor in the Department of Psychology at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), highlights the significance of grey and white matter in our nervous system. Grey matter comprises neurons and dendrites, whereas white matter facilitates communication between these neurons (via myelinated axons), playing a crucial role in the speed and distribution of neural signals.
A comprehensive review in the Brain Sciences journal synthesizes existing research on brain health, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the condition of our grey and white matter. The study provides extensive theoretical analysis and references 101 articles, identifying three critical factors for optimal brain function: physical activity, social engagement, and pursuing passions or interests, including learning new things and embracing challenges.
Physical activity emerges as a significant challenge for many. A sedentary lifestyle not only affects the body but the brain as well. Sigmundsson and his colleagues argue that an active lifestyle is crucial for developing the central nervous system and mitigating brain ageing. Thus, it’s essential to incorporate physical movement into your daily routine, especially if your job or lifestyle involves prolonged periods of sitting.
Social interactions also play a vital role in brain health. Despite some individuals preferring solitude or minimal social contact, engaging with others is beneficial. Interactions can stimulate complex biological processes that help prevent cognitive decline. Socializing, whether through conversation or physical contact, supports robust brain functioning.
Passion, or having a strong interest in something, can significantly influence learning and the development and maintenance of neural networks. Staying curious and open to new experiences is crucial, regardless of age. For instance, learning to play a new musical instrument could be rewarding and stimulates your brain.
Sigmundsson, master’s student Benjamin H. Dybendal and associate professor Simone Grassini from the University of Stavanger advocate for the “use it or lose it” approach to brain health. Their research parallels the necessity of physical exercise for the body with the need for mental stimulation to prevent cognitive decay. They stress that lifestyle choices, including physical exercise, social interactions, and engaging in passionate pursuits, are instrumental in developing and maintaining the brain’s structural integrity as we age.
These three elements — physical activity, social engagement, and passion — contribute to sustaining brain health and enhancing overall quality of life, giving a foundation for ageing gracefully.
More information: Hermundur Sigmundsson, Benjamin H Dybendal and Simone Grassini. Motion, Relation, and Passion in Brain Physiological and Cognitive Aging, Brain Sciences. DOI: 10.3390/brainsci12091122
Journal information: Brain Sciences Provided by Norwegian University of Science and Technology
