Improving Your Memory Based on Science
How can I make my memory better? What should I do to guarantee that I don’t forget anything?
There are many scientific theories on how memories work, including the State Dependent Memory theory which explains why people remember more if they feel the same way they did when they first learned something. The insights from these theories have implications for how happiness, routine, context and recollection affect our memories. Here are some scientifically supported tips for improving your memory:
Use Acronyms
Acronyms help us remember lists of words by associating meaning to them. This makes them easier to understand and recall than when the words are random, jumbled up, or mixed up in a list.
All you need to do is list what you want to remember and arrange them in an acronym that spells a real word. This can help make remembering things easy.
Relating
This technique is great for remembering all of your daily tasks and errands. You will want to link them to an image so that when you picture the visual scene, you’ll remember what else needs to be done.
For example, to remember a list of items, you can include them in a story. Let’s say you want to remember the south England countries: Avon, Cornwall, Devon, Dorset, Gloucestershire, Hampshire, Somerset, Surrey and Wiltshire.
With the game “The Story Game”, you can link all these countries in the form of a story to improve memory. An AVON lady is looking for a house. She is sweating and thirsty due to high SUMMER (Somerset). Along the way, she came across a giant CORN (Cornwall), but it is about to WILT (Wiltshire), etc.
Writing Down
Whenever you are trying to learn something and improve your memory, try writing it down. Review what you have written, and test yourself.
You can also use memory mapping to enhance your ability to memorize things
Keep yourself busy
You should keep your brain busy by repeating all your exercises and testing yourself. According to a recent study, if you keep your brain busy it will stay fit, just like our bodies need to be active.
Test yourself repeatedly, and you’ll retain the correct information for the longest time.
Those who exercise regularly usually have better memories than those who don’t. Taking walks or indulging in physical activities can help you maintain your health while also improving your memory.
Sleep well
The need for sleep shows how our mind is wasted without a healthy, rested body. Damage can be seen in our memories and brains when we deprive them of rest.
Studies show that a lack of sleep can increase risk factors for Alzheimer’s disease. One such study found that people who suffered from restless leg syndrome had a fourfold increase in the risk of developing Alzheimer’s when compared to those without it. So try not to stay at the casino overnight.
Foods that have been found through research to improve memory
A Harvard study found that a healthy diet including fruits and vegetables can help to improve memory. Scientists believe vitamins and antioxidants from these foods reduce oxidative stress in the brain, which is caused by aging.
Brain training apps and games
In addition, video games can also improve memory. Brain training and other video games on a regular basis can build up certain regions of the brain as well as increase your total knowledge recall. Studies have also shown that video games may reduce dementia risk.
As a result, some are thinking about investing time into apps that help the brain stay sharp.
Think of the importance of the information
You can help your memory by considering the importance of the information to you. This signals your brain to convert short-term memories into long-term ones, helping you remember effortlessly.
Exercise regularly
Regular exercise gives you a better memory. People who exercise for over 30 minutes have better memories than people who do not.
Aerobic exercises will protect your memory and slow down cognitive decline.
Pay attention to the small details
Although repetition might help you in remembering stuff, you might miss out on the bigger picture. Scientists have found that repetitive practice might not be enough to improve your memory.
It can be hard to remember what a person said if they interrupted you in the middle of your sentence. However, there are now AI platforms that allow you to input information and create easy-to-understand visualizations of it.
Thus, rote repetition won’t do any good. You need to complement repetition through a proper understanding of the finer details.
Conclusion
Improving your memory is not as hard as you may think and can be easy, even if you have a busy lifestyle. All you need to do is follow the tips above and eat right to get your brain working at its fullest capability, which will help your memory significantly!