Spring Activities for Cognitive Health
Spring is on its way in the northern hemisphere! In many places, that means the weather warms up, flowers bloom, and the earth comes back to life. Many people feel reinvigorated during this time, and become more active. So, how can we take advantage of this time of renewal and take part in activities that are healthy for our brains? Check out these spring activities for cognitive health.
Walk outside
Exercise and getting fresh air at the same time may provide double benefits for the brain! When you exercise outside, an increased flow of fresh oxygen reaches your circulatory system, including your brain. Research shows that this may have positive effects on brain health and cognition.
Take a break
If you’re able to, taking a break from your day-to-day tasks can provide a much needed refresh. A vacation or even just a day off can help to reduce stress, which is great for brain health. Taking a break from your routine also allows you to stimulate your brain in new ways. You could socialize, read, hike, go to a museum, or simply get some much needed rest – whatever floats your boat!
Attend community events
The warm weather offers opportunities for outdoor events. Check local newspapers or social media to see if there are any fun events in your area like a farmer’s market, fair, street cleanup, or outdoor concert. These events provide opportunities to experience something new, socialize, and get out of your comfort zone. Socializing is great for our brain health, and studies show it may even help to prevent or delay dementia as we age.
Work with plants
Research shows that working with plants, and even just being around them, lowers stress levels. If you have an outdoor space where you can garden, getting some sunshine and being around plants could be beneficial. If you don’t have an outdoor space – no problem! Even putting one plant in your window can help. Studies show that just one plant makes a difference in lowering stress levels!
When we’re regularly stressed out, our cognitive function tends to worsen. Small steps to reduce the stress in your life can lead to positive outcomes for your brain.
Refresh your space
Speaking of stress, clutter tends to contribute to these feelings. A messy environment can be distracting, which may make it more difficult to complete tasks. Cleaning, organizing, and getting rid of clutter offers the benefits of moving your body, utilizing your executive function skills, clearing distractions, and creating a more calming environment. Try Spring cleaning in your home and see how organizing your space may help you organize your mind!
Read a book
Reading offers a multitude of cognitive benefits, including working on comprehension and memory skills. Research also shows that it may prevent or delay dementia. It’s a great way to stimulate your cognition, in addition to being a fun activity. And what better way to spend a nice Spring day than relaxing and reading? Try to replace some screen time with a book for a cognitively healthy Spring activity!
Conclusion
As the Spring brings renewal to the environment, don’t be afraid to renew some healthy habits for yourself! Even if you’re not one to typically walk outside or read a book – just try it and see if you like it! Adding a little bit of brain-healthy activity to your Spring might offer a refreshing change of pace.
