Brain Health Challenge: Try a Brain Teaser

Brain Health Challenge: Try a Brain Teaser

The New York Timeshealth

Key Points:

  • Cognitive reserve refers to the brain's ability to withstand damage without showing cognitive impairment, built up through education, mentally demanding jobs, and stimulating hobbies.
  • Engaging in challenging but enjoyable activities, such as learning a second language, playing musical instruments, visiting museums, or doing handicrafts, helps strengthen brain connections and build cognitive reserve.
  • Social and novel activities, like joining book clubs, attending lectures, or trying new games and puzzles, provide additional cognitive benefits by combining mental stimulation with social interaction.
  • Repetitive tasks only improve specific skills, so incorporating new and varied challenges is crucial for overall brain growth and remodeling.
  • The Day 4 challenge encourages stepping out of cognitive comfort zones by trying new mental activities, such as