POWER UP YOUR BRAIN...

1. Learn a Language. Learn a new language has been shown to halt the age-related decline in brain function. It also introduces your mind to new concepts and new ways of looking at things. It is one of the best brain exercises.

2. Mindfulness exercises. Concentration and clear thinking are more or less automatic once you remove distractions. Learn to stop and watch your busy mind. As you notice things that are subtly bothering you, deal with them. This might mean making a phone call you need to make, or putting things on a list so you can forget them for now. With practice, this becomes easier, and your thinking becomes more powerful.

3. Write. Writing is good for your mind in a number of ways. It is a way to tell your memory. It is a way to clarify your thinking. It is a way to exercise your creativity and analytical ability. Diaries, idea journals, poetry, note-taking and story-writing are all ways to use writing to boost your brain power.

4. Develop your intuition. Intuition can be an important part of brain power.

5. Sleep better. As long as you get a certain amount of sleep – probably a minimum of five hours – the quality seems to be more important than the quantity. Also short naps in the afternoon seem to work well to recharge the brain for some people.