1. Dark chocolate makes you smart
With a cocoa content of 70 percent or more, dark chocolate is rich in minerals and flavonoids that ward off free radicals and increase blood supply and oxygen to the brain.
Some studies even show that it’s worth eating a few pieces of dark chocolate about two hours before an important appointment. Memory and responsiveness should be at their peak when it matters most.
2. Blueberries strengthen the brain
Alternatively, you can also add a bowl of blueberries. The blue fruit also contains flavonoids, polyphenols, vitamin C, potassium, zinc, folic acid and iron. This healthy mix boosts performance.
3. Learn new things
Challenge: Learn a new word every day. Or dare to try an entire language. Or a musical instrument. Challenging your brain with unfamiliar things keeps it awake and active and increases your own cognitive abilities.
4. Use the other hand
Are you right-handed? From now on, write your shopping and to-do lists with your left hand. Brush your teeth with your left – or right if you are left-handed.
5. Be bored for ten minutes
Treat yourself to a “white space” every day. Without a cell phone, without a laptop, without a TV, beeping, buzzing, flashing – without distraction.
Be in a room with just yourself for about 10 minutes and enjoy the moments without stress or obligations.
This routine is intended to calm the sympathetic nervous system and provide better control, mentally and emotionally.
6. Get out into the fresh air
Fresh air and exercise can work wonders. Even a brisk walk around the block can help restart cerebral blood flow, creativity and executive functions (working memory, inhibition, cognitive flexibility).
So if, for example, you can’t think clearly at work or have an important meeting on the agenda, it’s best to take a quick walk around the building.
7. Sit straight and upright
Sounds banal, but it makes a crucial difference. Sit up straight, roll your shoulders back and ensure optimal blood supply to the brain. The upright posture also has a positive effect on the way your body feels.