Transform Your Life With Brain Training: Learn How to Get Started Today
“Brain training” is a term that’s becoming more popular. But what exactly is it?
We know you have questions.
How can you train your brain?
What are the benefits of brain training?
Today we’ll answer your questions and discuss the simple ways you can train your brain for:
- Stress resilience
- Better sleep hygiene
- Improved cognitive performance
- Mental acuity
- Relaxation
- Overall mental and physical health
What Is Brain Training?
When you think of brain training, you probably think of games to improve cognitive functions like memory, attention, and problem-solving. While that’s part of brain training, it doesn’t fully encompass all that it is. Brain training is the umbrella term used to describe anything you do to improve your brain health and performance.
Brain training can be mental exercises, activities, computer programs – even improved nutrition and healthy sleep habits. These activities have one thing in common; they enhance overall brain health and performance.
Cognitive Training Exercises
Many people start thinking about brain training as they age because they want to improve cognitive function, but this is just one part of brain training.
Cognitive training exercises are important and can improve:1
- Memory
- Attention
- Problem-solving skills
- Mental acuity
- Language
These exercises ensure you’re engaged in structured activities that improve cognitive skills through repeated practice and training.
Although most commonly done by seniors, cognitive training exercises can be done at any age.
Along with a healthy lifestyle, cognitive exercises can:
- Preserve cognitive skills and memory
- Prevent memory decline
- Improve reasoning and problem-solving skills
- Delay the onset of dementia
Examples of cognitive training exercises include:1,2
- Puzzle games: Solving crossword puzzles, Sudoku™, jigsaw puzzles, or logic puzzles can enhance problem-solving abilities, critical thinking, and spatial reasoning.
- Memory games: Playing games like matching cards or the Simon™ game can improve memory along with attention and concentration.
- Brain training apps: Many computer and phone apps offer a range of cognitive training exercises. Just search “brain training apps” for the most current programs. These apps usually focus on memory, attention, and problem-solving skills.
- Reading and learning: Reading, learning a new language, or taking a new course can stimulate the brain, improve vocabulary, and increase comprehension skills.
- Strategy games: Playing strategy-based board games like chess or Scrabble™ can enhance planning skills, strategic thinking, and decision-making abilities.
- Music: Learning to play an instrument and singing stimulates cognitive functions such as memory, attention, and coordination. Learning an instrument is linked to improved math skills among kids.
Brain training for improved cognition can be simple and easy to incorporate into everyday life. Whatever activities you choose, you’ll get the best results by doing them consistently.
For a holistic approach to brain training, let’s take a look at other things you can do.
Other Brain Training Tools
Brain training for improved cognitive performance is important, but you don’t want to neglect other brain training exercises that will improve your overall health.
Here are four ways you can train your brain for physical health and overall improved brain performance:2,3,4
- Mindfulness: Practices like meditation, visualization, and deep breathing all involve focused attention and non-judgmental awareness of the present moment. This can help reduce stress, improve emotional regulation, and increase executive function skills.
- Nutrition: A heart-healthy, well-balanced diet is essential for good health. Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants support brain health. The Mediterranean diet has been linked to cognitive benefits and a reduced risk of cognitive decline. If you have questions about changing your diet, talk to your healthcare provider before starting anything new.
- Physical activity: Engaging in aerobic activities, strength training, and yoga have positive effects on brain health. Exercise increases blood flow to the brain, increases neuroplasticity, and releases “feel good” neurotransmitters.
- Neurofeedback: Neurofeedback has been around for decades. It monitors your brain activity and gives your brain information about its own turbulence so that you can self-regulate effectively and efficiently.
Benefits of Brain Training
Brain training activities are different, but nearly all activities increase neuroplasticity – the brain’s ability to reorganize, adapt, change, and form new connections.
Brain training improves:
- Cognitive skills: This includes memory, attention, and concentration. It can help you perform better in academic or work-related situations requiring focus.
- Problem-solving skills: Improve critical thinking and problem-solving skills so you can approach challenges efficiently and creatively.
- Mental acuity: Become mentally flexible, quick thinking, and adaptable. This is highly beneficial for older adults in maintaining cognitive function and reducing the risk of age-related cognitive decline.
- Memory: Some brain training exercises specifically target memory which is valuable for people of all ages. This can help students, parents, professionals, and older adults who want to stay mentally sharp as they age.
- Mental health: Brain training can give you a sense of accomplishment, and serves as a form of mental stimulation and relaxation, contributing to overall well-being and mental wellness.
- Reduce dementia risk: According to many healthcare experts, having a healthy lifestyle, incorporating brain training activities, and getting plenty of exercise can significantly reduce your risk of Alzheimer’s and dementia.4
How Can You Brain Train With Neurofeedback?
You might be wondering, can I brain train with neurofeedback? The answer is yes!
Neurofeedback is a method of brain training that helps your brain work at its best and increase neuroplasticity.
Many people involved in brain training want to make it a part of their daily lives. Just like doing cardio to help your heart health, you can train your brain with neurofeedback. If you plan to use neurofeedback frequently, you can get your own at-home neurofeedback system with NeurOptimal®.
NeurOptimal® is the most advanced, professional-grade at-home neurofeedback system on the market. It’s a computer-aided training system that detects sudden changes in electrical activity and alerts the brain. It’s like a reset for the brain – bringing the brain to the present moment during moments of turbulence.
You’ll listen to music or watch a movie during the sessions. When the system detects an irregularity, there will be a brief pause. This brings you back to the present moment, allowing the brain to self-correct. This is a simple way of optimizing your brain to work at its highest potential.
Using NeurOptimal®:
- Keeps your brain fit
- Improves mental acuity
- Promotes relaxation and healthy sleep habits
- Helps you become more flexible and resilient in the face of day-to-day stressors
- Enhances learning capacity
Why Work With Whole Family Neurofeedback
If you’re looking to buy or rent a NeurOptimal® system, Whole Family Neurofeedback can help. We understand all about neurofeedback – because we’ve done it.
Learn about how neurofeedback has helped our family live better with ADHD and help with greater focus and mental acuity.
We know firsthand the power of the whole family doing neurofeedback. Neurofeedback helped us as individuals and how we interact as a family.
We’re here to answer all your questions.
Whole Family Neurofeedback makes sure you’re well supported and that your sessions are seamless with:
- Plug & Play Tech – easy for anyone to use
- Dedicated customer service, seven days a week
- Videos to help you understand how to properly use the equipment
- Available for questions via text or email
- Cost savings: four packages to choose from (including unlimited sessions)
Are you ready to brain train with at-home neurofeedback?
Fill out our contact form or call us at 303-222-5118
Resources
- Forbes. 6 Brain Exercises for Seniors to Try. 2023.
- Harvard. Simple, low cost, low tech brain training. 2021.
- Harvard, A workout for your brain. 2022.
- Cleveland Clinic. How Exercise Protects Your Brain’s Health. 2022.
Disclaimer: This site contains information on general health and wellness topics. Please note that Neuroptimal® has been designated a general wellness product by the FDA. The information on this site or in any linked materials should not be construed as medical advice. The information in this article is not intended to replace any recommendations by your physician.