9. Healthy ways to reduce stress

Chronic stress can harm cognitive function. When you are stressed, your body produces a hormone called cortisol, which can interfere with the brain’s ability to process and retain information. 

In addition, chronic stress can lead to problems with concentration and decision-making. By reducing stress in your life through activities such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing, you can help to protect your cognitive function and make yourself smarter. 

But the problem usually is that people cope with stress in toxic ways like smoking, porn, alcohol, etc. And these activities only do more harm to the brain. 

The key here is to look for healthy ways to calm yourself during times of stress.