Tuesday, June 2, 2026
Who doesn’t want to sharpen their mind at any time in their lives, especially during the final phase stage? We now know that the brain can be enriched, made faster, fitter and sharper at any age by practicing, that is doing something over and over again. We also know a sharper mind is more resilient which improves when we go through challenging experiences. Each day counts.
Body and brain are deeply connected. What is good for the body is good for the brain. Here are eight practices brain needs. You may be already exercising some of these. So one by one try to add the ones you are not:
1. Sleep for seven to nine hours a night
2. Eat three nutritious meals a day
3. Walk/Exercise four to five times a week
4. Daily Meditation/Journaling
5. Frequently socialize with family and friends
6. Work on a creative project
7. Read books that you enjoy
8. Have a sense of purpose
Exercise regularly all of these practices and watch them contribute to your brain getting sharper, more resilient and your body stronger.
In addition, your brain needs general maintenance and upkeep of what you already possess. What we practice daily on our mindfulness journey is like dusting and tidying up to keep it healthy. Whatever mindfulness program you create for yourself will maintain your brain health. And if you feel it is not the best it can be, tweak your program by adding the above-mentioned exercises with small increments. That could have huge payoffs.
Over 90 percent of our health and longevity is in our hands. We must understand our own brain and make it better. Here at Ashby Ponds we often brush with mortality and see fragility of life up close. But being mindful, paying attention and having awareness of self and others make us grateful for what we have and accept life as it is.