That fog, the forgetfulness and indecision that supposedly “come” with age is reversible. To hell with dementia, Alzheimer’s and losing it … it’s time to insist on a better brain and reclaim your edge …
If you’ve ever helped a parent through age-related memory or performance issues, you know that feeling when you walk into a room not knowing why you’re there. Little things seem to be slipping or you just can’t get started in the morning and you’re wondering “Is it starting?”
Sometimes we laugh it off and curse the “old-timers” symptoms, but other times we seek answers for the ongoing lapses, losing words, thoughts and memories. And say what you want about baby boomers, but there’s been enough of this going around for researchers, Big Pharma and doctors to target eroding brain function as a major market (hint: search “headstrong” on Amazon to see how crowded this space has become). Drugs, supplements, therapies and technologies have emerged, and there’s more in the pipeline.
Where to Start
First off, a reminder this site isn’t about medical advice, and secondly, having a good baseline for your cognitive performance is always helpful. So, yeah, seeing a good doctor (functional or otherwise) is a great place to start on your better brain journey.
Then, it is time to explore gut-brain connections. The health of your gut will determine how your brain functions, so it is vital that you get that sorted. If we start with one of the basic human engines, mitochondria, we can build a stronger system from there with foods, exercise and training to strengthen your head. If you want to dive deeper into research. methodologies and possibilities for your brain health, Dave Asprey (Bulletproof) wrote a really solid guide in his book Head Strong: The Bulletproof Plan to Activate Untapped Brain Energy to Work Smarter and Think Faster-in Just Two Weeks.
In that book and certainly becoming more popular are techniques like low-energy magnetic fields and nootropics for enhancing focus, mood and energy. Of course, there are simpler lifestyle choices you can use too (see our new eBook here) like meditation, getting better sleep and breathing techniques.
As fervent as Asprey and others are in pursuit of a top-notch health span, you too need to insist on a better brain if you want to continue to decide for yourself how you will live and thrive. Here are some of our top choices for learning, testing and exercising your noggin.
Better Brain Health Resources:
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LIMITLESS If you’ve ever seen Jim Kwik present his vast experience in brain training and mental acuity, you know you leave those sessions performing better than before. This book is a staple in every high-performer’s library. Learn more here.
FOCUS Just telling friends you’re reading a book by The Urban Monk will make you sound cooler, but these lessons from Pedram Shojai will put you on track for crisper, cleaner achievement each day. A great way to clear your head for bigger things, this is a must read. Learn more here.
FIND YOUR WHY Simon Sinek continues to amaze with his grasp of the organizational mind and in this book he boils down just what your “why” can mean for higher productivity, satisfaction and achievement each day. This book is a strong intro to Sinek’s clarity of message … you will carry that meaning into your every day after reading it. Note: This is his followup to Start With Why, the book that embodied his world-famous TED Talk. Learn more here.
YOU HAPPIER Dr. Daniel Amen (arguably the father of better brain thinking) changed brain health forever with his use of brain SPECT imaging, revealing issues that traditional psychology couldn’t. In his book, Amen introduces the seven secrets of happiness and breaks these down into five more segments including neuroscience, biology, psychology, social aspects and spirituality. Aside from the ongoing plugs for his clinic and products, there are some useful nuggets here to boost your awareness of why happiness matters in your every moment. Note: the book also references his 30-Day Happiness Challenge. Learn more here.
E Q U I P M E N T | S Y S T E M S
APOLLO NEURO Stress can be a killer, and while there are myriad choices for addressing it, one of the simple methods is via a wearable that helps your body recover via sound touch therapy. The varied vibrations in the device balance your autonomic nervous system to help you sleep, relax, focus and recover. Consistent use is an amazing conditioner for your nervous system. Learn more here.
BRAINTAP Braintapping is a quick and easy way to optimize your brain’s peak potential—anytime, anywhere. Backed by neuroscience and research, BrainTap’s mobile app and wearable headset build your brain fitness helping people who experience high stress, difficulty sleeping, low energy, and other lifestyle challenges. Using this highly lauded product, you create a fit and resilient brain with clear, focused thinking, and the confidence to make better choices. Learn more here.
40 YEARS OF ZEN 40 Years of Zen is a 5 day Master Program designed to bring you the benefits of decades of meditation that can raise your IQ, EQ and creativity and increase your productivity. Utilizing the combination of biofeedback systems and high-quality supplements, diet and technology, you should see gains including the ability to make better decisions, and obtain clarity of mind. The bottom line is that 40 Years of Zen promises you will experience more happiness, better relationships and an upgraded life. Learn more here
MUSE HEADBANDS Muse is a brain-sensing headband that uses real-time biofeedback to help you refocus during the day and recover overnight. Bring mindfulness and meditation into your world with scientifically validated Muse devices and programs. Lower stress, increase resilience and improve your engagement. Learn more here.
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