If it turns out you don’t have an eidetic memory, that’s totally fine! This test is still a fun way to exercise your brain and improve your memory.
Similarly, if you place your car keys down on the kitchen counter, try to imagine your keys doing something silly in the kitchen like cooking or eating the fruit in the fruit bowl. When it comes time to look for your keys later, you’ll be unlikely to forget that silly image you created in your head.
One way to combat this is to repeat the person’s name right after meeting them: “Nice to meet you, Sam. " If you didn’t hear the name properly or couldn’t catch how to pronounce it, be sure to clarify this right away to avoid having to ask again later. Another way to remember names is to associate the new name with somebody you already know by that name. If you don’t already know anybody by that name, then try to think of a character in a book or film with that name. Making this kind of association can help you recall the name later.
If you are trying to remember items on a grocery list, then try clumping them together in different categories like fruits, vegetables, frozen items, condiments, meats, etc. Alternatively, divide grocery lists into potential meals; for example, you could group lettuce, tomato, cucumbers, goat cheese, and vinegar into one “chunk” called “salad items. " The same can be done by dividing sets of numbers into smaller sections; this will come in handy when trying to remember your credit card number, social security number, or a telephone number. For example, instead of trying to remember the following sequence: 77896526, you could break it up into 77-896-526. Repeating the number back to yourself will be a lot easier if you do it in smaller sections.
Any purpose is fine! It can be as simple as, “I need to memorize the origins of the Civil War so I can pass my history test!” Having a purpose will help your brain remember why you’re reading in the first place, and might help you retain information.
For example, in a chapter on the Civil War, as you read about slavery you can associate that with the part of the chapter that is analyzing the origins of the war.
Don’t try to watch TV or have a conversation when you are reading something that you want to remember.
Another way to help alleviate anxiety and depression is to socialize more often. [8] X Research source Reach out to friends, family members, and loved ones and avoid spending too much time alone with your thoughts.
Do crossword puzzles to get a great mental workout.
Read the newspaper to stay up to date on current events. This will also exercise your brain!
Learn a new language or instrument. Sign up for a class at your local community college.
It’s important to spread out your exercises throughout the week so that you are regularly increasing blood flow to the brain. Even if you don’t have time for a formal workout, you might have time to squeeze in at least a brisk 10 minute walk. Make small lifestyle changes to increase your mobility, like choosing the stairs over the elevator.
If you don’t like fish, talk to your doctor about trying fish oil supplements instead.
Walnuts are also good for your heart and an excellent source of protein.
Frozen berries are also packed with nutrients, so keep those on hand.
Ask your doctor about what is right for you.
