Winter break is almost a month long, and, for some, that is a long time to be away from books and school work. According to the Salisbury Post, it is common for students to show a drop in academic performance when they have been away from a classroom setting for a long time, so here is a list of tips, tricks and apps to keep your brain fired up over break.
Exercise
Exercise is good for the body and mind. According to Life Hack, even a 20 minute workout can benefit memory and cognitive processes. Any form of exercise will get blood circulating to the brain to increase alertness and processing functions.
Learn something new
The brain can stay active when presented with new stimuli. This means that learning something new, even something simple, can be beneficial to keeping a brain trained and aware. Life Hack stated that learning a new dance, like juju on that beat, can improve memory and challenge the brain to think in a different way.
Work your memory
According to the American Psychological Association, memory can be improved in many ways. Taking mental snapshots of where you leave things or making pneumonic devices for names and lists can improve your memory. Using technology to store notes and reminders also helps to keep track of tasks and events. You can start getting into the habit over winter break. Staying positive and happy can also help improve your memory.
Apply with an app
Lumosity is a well-known brain training app that has been widely advertised on television. This app has a variety of games that test and strengthen different aspects of learning, such as memory, attention and problem solving. After completing three games, the app will give you an overall progress report called the Lumosity Performance Index. The app has free limited access to certain games and training, but you can upgrade to premium for $11.99 a month or $59.99 a year.
The app Fit Brains Trainer is a great way to fit in brain training. Fit Brains has games that test memory, problem solving and focus. This app also has a performance program that tracks your progress and training streaks so you can see your improvement. This app also has free limited access to games; however, there is a premium upgrade for $1.99 weekly, $9.99 monthly, $49.99 yearly or $199.99 for a lifetime subscription.
If you are concerned that your brain will be out of shape by next semester, then try out some of these techniques and start your brain training early.
