Spring is offically here, which means it’s time to say goodbye to the winter chill and hello to longer days, warmer weather, and blooming flowers! Known as a time of refreshment and restoration, spring is also the perfect time to revitalize your brain.
As you defrost from winter, make the most of the new season with these five fun and engaging activities to give your cognitive health a much-needed boost.
- Grow Your Green Thumb: Whether you’re a professional plant whisperer or have a budding green thumb, gardening is the perfect way to relax and connect with nature. Just like solving puzzles, gardening also helps preserve your cognitive function by exercising your brain through planning and problem-solving. The best part? The sense of accomplishment you’ll feel as you watch your seeds bloom and grow.
- Spring Clean Your Home (and Brain): Do you feel more anxious in a cluttered house? You’re not alone! Studies have shown that living in a clean space can boost mood, increase focus and reduce stress – which all support healthy cognition. So, don’t put off that annual spring cleaning – it’s a great way to spruce up your home while reinvigorating your mental and cognitive health!
- Pack a Picnic: What more spring than an outdoor picnic? Now’s the perfect time to gather your friends, grab some healthy snacks, and head to the park. While socializing and strengthening connections with friends are great for your cognitive health, you can pack an extra brain boost in your picnic by bringing a deck of cards and challenging your friends to brain-teasing games as you enjoy the sun.
- Push the Pedals: Exercise is vital for both physical and cognitive health. If you’re looking for new ways to switch up your typical workout routine, biking is an excellent low-impact aerobic exercise, especially for a beautiful spring day. Don’t have a bike? Check if your city offers a bikeshare system so you can take part in the fun. And remember—always wear a helmet to keep your brain protected!
- Take Your Favorite Book Outside: While we love cozying up with a good book and a warm drink during the winter, there’s nothing better than going out in nature and getting lost in a story. Whether you sit outside your favorite café or find a dreamy place in a park, reading outside helps you sharpen your mind while soaking up vitamin D – an essential component of your mood and well-being. Now’s a great time to start curating your spring reading list!
Learn more about how you can keep your brain healthy this spring: mcknightbrain.org/brainworks/.