In 2014 our mom was diagnosed with a rare form of dementia called FTD. She died from complications due to the disease on April 19th, 2019.
Before her diagnosis, we were unaware of the importance of brain health. No one ever talked about it.
We are talking about it now.
You better believe our brain health became a priority after our mom’s diagnosis and our mission will always be to promote the necessary practices to maintain a healthy brain.
Our mom’s journey with dementia was utterly heartbreaking and I would give anything to have her here today, however, her journey was incredibly eye-opening, and implementing brain-healthy practices was the natural order of progression after our world was turned upside down.
It’s important to note that brain health should be important to everyone regardless of family health history.
The good news is there are many things you can do to nurture your brain on a daily basis.
The end goal for everyone is to live a long healthy life where our brains live and thrive right alongside our bodies.
Here are 7 things you can do that help reduce stress, offer nutritional support, and promote brain health. Think, bicep curls for your noggin.
Meditate
We know that chronic stress can wreak havoc on our brains. According to neuroscience, this mindful practice helps our brain recover better from stress. Alzheimer.org.uk says stress affects the immune system, which is known to play an important role in the development of dementia.
Here’s a tip to help get your day started mindfully:
Every morning before you pick up your device, try laying in bed (eyes open or closed) and take 5-10 mindful breaths. Slowly in and out through your nose. Allow your brain and body to wake up while concentrating on your breathing. Not only will it change the way you begin your day it will aid throughout the day when confronted with more stressful situations.
Remember, you can meditate anywhere at any time – it just takes practice and a little bit of time. Search for free guided meditations on Youtube or consider the amazing meditation app, Calm.
Eat Well
Fact. A well-balanced and healthy diet is good for the body, but did you know there are foods that are scientifically proven to support brain health? Indeed!
A Mediterranean diet rich in legumes, vegetables, whole grains, seafood, fruit, healthy oils, nuts, and seeds, along with the MIND diet, have all kinds of health benefits like the reduction of blood pressure, hypertension, and other positive cognitive benefits.
Basically, you want your dinner plate to look like the colors of the rainbow. Colorful and vibrant.
Take Your Brain Health Supplements
The aforementioned section explained the best diets that contribute to brain health. However, for many, busy schedules make it quite difficult to get all of the nutrients we need on a daily basis, specifically those that are good for our brains.
Thankfully, NeuroReserve has developed a brain health supplement called Relevate which provides critical brain nutrients many of us so desperately need.
Your daily dose of necessary nutrients comes in one daily soft gel and two capsules. The team behind NeuroReserve put exceptional research and inquiry behind their product which we are so grateful to have in our daily regiment.
For more on NeuroReserve and the amazing things they are doing to promote brain health, go here.
Use our code: TSP30 for 30% off your order.
Regular Exercise
Scientists are continuing to learn that everything from the ‘runners high’ to the ‘yogi’s tranquility can have profound effects on the brain.
Any form of exercise is beneficial. Get outside in nature and nurture that brain of yours with some physical movement and activity. Plus, you’ll be getting your friluftzliv on!
If you’re interested in yoga classes – Lauren is the answer to all your yoga needs. Teacher for ten years, student for life, and loves meeting you where you are on the mat. Check out her website, here.
Take a Sauna
A good sweat is good for the brain.
Sauna heat not only makes you sweat, a lot, it is also believed to encourage the production of a protein called BDNF which improves memory and mood. Sweat for the sake of your brain and enjoy all of the relaxing benefits saunas have to offer.
Extra bonus: Your skin will glow post sauna.
Equilibria CBD
With full-spectrum, hemp-based CBD, it isn’t about what you feel. It is about what you don’t feel.
CBD takes the edge off and reduces stress and inflammation as is clinically proven to positively impact mental health and well-being. Take your daily dose of CBD and enjoy restored balance and a sense of calm. CBD is nature’s way to a greater sense of calm.
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To shop Equilibria, go here.
Talk To Someone
Some studies show a history of anxiety and depression can be linked to cognitive decline. What does that tell you? I always say if your heart was sick you would go to a doctor. Why wouldn’t you do the same for your head? If it’s sick, talk to someone.
Psychology Today is a wonderful resource if you need help finding a professional that suits your needs.
The hardest part is making the first phone call, but the good news is once you do and commit to talking, therapy has lasting positive effects on mental health which play a role in brain health.
Therapist Tip: Lauren’s therapist prescribed her meditation when she asked for tools to help with severe anxiety when our mom was first diagnosed with dementia. It was a game-changing piece of advice.
Take care of yourself and that brain of yours.
Stay cozy,
Michelle
I had laughed when you wrote about the “colors of the rainbow “. My doctor said to me Cor, EAT the rainbow and she was right!
I lowered my bp with a breathing exercise as well. Loved your article!