Search Here

Summer presents a perfect opportunity to enhance brain health through various enjoyable activities and lifestyle changes.

Summer Season and Brain Health

The warmer months can significantly influence brain health. According to Dr. Patrick Porter, a neuroscience expert and founder of BrainTap, the longer daylight hours associated with summer can improve mood and cognitive function due to increased vitamin D exposure. This vitamin has been linked to memory improvement and mood enhancement. Porter recommends taking advantage of this summer vitamin by engaging in activities that prioritize brain health, which he calls 'brain break'.

However, the heat and humidity of summer can lead to dehydration, which negatively impacts cognitive functions and productivity. Therefore, staying hydrated is essential, with the recommendation being to drink half of one's body weight in ounces of water.

Best Ways to Boost Your Brain Health

Along with staying hydrated, there are health-boosting ways of taking a 'brain break' during summer, like those listed below:

Stay Social

Social connections are vital for overall health and well-being. Engaging in meaningful social activities like volunteering, joining a choir, or spending time with friends and family can enhance brain health.

Ensure Proper Sleep

Adequate sleep is crucial for brain function, as it helps regenerate brain parts necessary for memory and thinking. Aim for at least seven hours of sleep each night to maintain cognitive health.

Continue Learning

Education at any life stage reduces the risk of cognitive decline and dementia. Enroll in classes at a local college, community center, or online platform to keep the brain active and engaged.

Care for the Heart

Maintaining heart health can benefit the brain, as conditions like obesity, high blood pressure, and diabetes can harm cognitive function. Regularly check blood pressure and blood sugar levels and take prescribed medications.

Challenge the Mind

Engaging in activities such as building furniture, completing puzzles, creating art, or playing strategic games keeps the brain alert and active.

Summer's warm months encourage vacations, outdoor activities, and socializing activities that the brain thrives on. Research indicates that the brain is most active during summer, with outdoor activities promoting increased gray matter in the prefrontal cortex and enhancing cognitive functions. Taking breaks from work, even for short periods, can significantly benefit brain health.