Your ability to remember things plays an important role in many aspects of your life. From daily tasks to academic ones like studying for exams to complete a teaching certificate like a postgraduate certificate in education, your memory matters. Whilst it’s okay to forget every now and again, regular patterns of forgetfulness can be really bad for productivity and even success as a whole.
Whether you’re studying a professional teaching programme or one in the business realm, you need to be able to rely on your memory. Luckily, it’s like a muscle that can be strengthened with regular training and proper maintenance. There are several factors that can impact how well your memory functions. These include the likes of genetics, diet and lifestyle.
At The IIE’s Varsity College, we’re always looking to share more tips that enable our candidates to live well and thrive. When it comes to the effectiveness of memory, this is one area that we believe everyone can improve with only a few actions. Need to give your memory a boost? Take a look at our top five tips.
Say no to sugar
The link between sugar and a host of health issues is pretty alarming. One such example is that of cognitive conditions. Studies have shown that those with a diet packed with sugar are more likely to have a reduced brain capacity and poorer memory. This is especially true in the part of the brain that’s responsible for short term memory. Lessen these effects by making a conscious effort to reduce the amounts of refined sugar you consume. Your mind will thank you for it.
Catch enough Zs
We all know that a lack of sleep can be responsible for many ailments. Where your memory is concerned, poor sleeping patterns are incredibly detrimental to the way in which our brains store short-term memories and convert them into long-term ones. As a result, sleep deprivation results in fatigue, forgetfulness and a tendency to overlook important details that help you remember things. It’s why you might find you perform better when you’re well rested.
Challenge your mind
With the brain being one of the body’s most powerful muscles, it makes sense that we should be exercising it the same way that we do our limbs. With targeted training like puzzles, reading or even creative writing, you could boost your memory and even help reduce your risk of dementia later on in life. This makes a qualification like a postgraduate certificate in education a great way to boost your skills and keep your mind performing at its peak.
Eat foods that fight inflammation
There are certain foods that we consume that can help lower the level of inflammation in our bodies. Thanks to antioxidants found in many fruits, vegetables and even teas, the oxidative stress caused by free radicals in the body can be lowered. As a result, your brain is free to function with maximum impact. Try snacking on berries like strawberries and blueberries, as these offer high levels of antioxidants. Anyone for a berry smoothie?
Challenge yourself and your mind for a brighter future
Broadening your mind starts with choosing a qualification that suits your passions and dreams. For more on the IIE Postgraduate Certificate in Education in Senior Phase (SP) and Further Education and Training (FET)s Teaching please click here.
Varsity College is an educational brand of The Independent Institute of Education (The IIE). South Africa’s leading private higher education provider that’s registered with the Department of Higher Education and Training, and accredited by the British Accreditation Council (BAC).