Medicine
Fact-checked

At WiseGEEK, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.

Learn more...

What Are the Different Types of Memory Improvement Techniques?

Alex Tree
Alex Tree

There are thousands of different memory improvement techniques, but the truth is that people do not have to work hard for a good memory. The human brain functions best when the body is well nourished and rested. In addition, the brain can be kept fresh by always doing something new, whether trying out a new sports activity or just visiting a new place, as long as the activity is interesting to the person trying to improve his or her memory. Another way to improve memory is to keep depression and stress in check, because both of these health conditions can ruin focus and make a person mentally sluggish.

Effective sleep can play a major role in an effort to improve a person’s memory. Sleep deprivation can affect all areas of mental capacity dramatically, and memory ability is no exception to this rule. Without proper sleep, it is nearly impossible to take advantage of other memory improvement techniques, because proper rest is an important foundation point of mental capacity. Allowing time for complete sleep, including the deepest stages of sleep, is a fundamental memory improvement technique. Deep sleep allows the brain to consolidate and optimize memories much more effectively than light or incomplete sleep.

Good nutrition and rest are keys to good memory.
Good nutrition and rest are keys to good memory.

Omega-3 fatty acids in seafood and the antioxidants in fruits and vegetables are important for brain health. Neglecting to eat healthy foods takes a toll on the brain as well as most other parts of the body; for example, new hair growth may be less healthy overall. In addition, perhaps among one of the most enjoyable memory improvement techniques is drinking wine. Red wine in particular is good for boosting blood flow to the brain, but drinking should be limited to two glasses per day, or else the effects on the brain will be negative.

Stress naturally causes mental anxiety, which can impair memory function.
Stress naturally causes mental anxiety, which can impair memory function.

Seeing and doing new things gives the brain a workout. These are two more potentially fun but effective memory improvement techniques. As a person becomes good at something, he or she takes less effort do it, and the brain becomes less involved. There is a reason work is often described as mindless or employees are said to be like zombies; people learn to do a task so well that it no longer takes much effort or thought. Learning a new language or just visiting a new shop wakes up the brain, because it is time to process new things.

Red wine helps increase blood flow to the brain.
Red wine helps increase blood flow to the brain.

Stress and depression are bad for brain health and should be remedied or at least lessened by therapy, meditation, and, if necessary, prescription medication. Severe depression can lead to memory loss and the inability to focus on tasks. Stress actually destroys brain cells and makes it more difficult for a person to make new memories. Reducing stress and depression helps the brain become healthier and remain so for longer than it would if under a lot of pressure.

Discussion Comments

Rotergirl

When I'm trying to remember something, it's helpful for me to write it down, but also to visualize myself doing it. I think that really helps me keep the information in my head.

I'm also a haptic learner, which means I have to *do* something to remember it. I can see it being done, which helps, but I have to actually get my hands on it to remember how to do it. It's a brain-hand connection thing.

Same with driving. In general, once I've driven somewhere one time (in daylight), I almost always remember how to get back there. I just carry a map in my head, I think.

Pippinwhite

I try to improve my memory by doing puzzles and things to keep my brain active. Sudoku drives me nuts, but I still do it on my phone because it makes me think.

I also think exercise helps my memory. I hate doing it, but it always seems like I'm much more clear-headed the day after a good workout. I usually walk and do weights, and I can tell a difference the next day. I also tend to be less drowsy in the afternoons at work when I've exercised. I feel more motivated to work, and consequently, remember more.

Post your comments
Login:
Forgot password?
Register:
    • Good nutrition and rest are keys to good memory.
      By: Robert Kneschke
      Good nutrition and rest are keys to good memory.
    • Stress naturally causes mental anxiety, which can impair memory function.
      By: Sandor Kacso
      Stress naturally causes mental anxiety, which can impair memory function.
    • Red wine helps increase blood flow to the brain.
      By: Irina Redko
      Red wine helps increase blood flow to the brain.
    • Salmon is naturally rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which may help with memory.
      By: pilipphoto
      Salmon is naturally rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which may help with memory.
    • Effective sleep can play a major role in an effort to improve a person's memory.
      By: Alex Bramwell
      Effective sleep can play a major role in an effort to improve a person's memory.