In the dynamic landscape of today, a sharp mind is your greatest asset. Harnessing the power of targeted brain-training exercises can elevate your cognitive abilities and optimise memory and focus. In this article, we go beyond the power of sleep and diet and delve into superpower activities to equip you with improved mental agility.

Master a New Skill

Learning a new skill is like a full-scale workout for your brain. Engaging in activities that require you to acquire and apply novel information stimulates the growth of neurons and strengthens neural connections. A study published in the Nature Journal found that learning new skills enhances the brain's plasticity, allowing it to adapt more effectively to changing environments.

Choose a skill that genuinely interests you, whether it's playing a musical instrument, picking up a new language, starting dance lessons or trying your hand at painting. The key is to challenge your brain with something unfamiliar. 

Dive into Jigsaw Puzzles

Jigsaw puzzles are not just a nostalgic pastime; they're also a fantastic brain-training exercise. Putting together the pieces of a puzzle engages multiple cognitive functions, including spatial reasoning, memory, and problem-solving. A study published in the Archives of Neurology found that engaging in mentally stimulating activities, such as puzzles, is associated with a reduced risk of cognitive decline in later life.

The process of sorting through different shapes and colours, visualising the final image, and mentally rotating pieces to fit together activates various regions of your brain. Set aside dedicated time for working on jigsaw puzzles, starting with simpler ones and gradually increasing the complexity. 

Crossword Puzzles

If you enjoy playing with words, crossword puzzles are an excellent way to enhance your verbal acuity and memory. A study published in the journal Brain and Cognition found that regular crossword puzzle enthusiasts exhibit better verbal recall and memory performance compared to non-enthusiasts.

Crossword puzzles engage the brain's language and memory centres, promoting the retrieval of stored information and the development of new connections. Make solving crossword puzzles a part of your daily routine via an app such as Wordle or the newspaper.

Sudoku for Logical Thinking

Sudoku, the number-placement puzzle, is a superb exercise for logical thinking and pattern recognition. A study in the International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry discovered that individuals who regularly engage in sudoku puzzles exhibit improved cognitive performance, particularly in executive functions such as planning and problem-solving.

Sudoku not only hones your ability to identify and fill in patterns but also enhances your concentration and attention to detail. Regular sudoku practice can aid in daily decision-making and problem-solving tasks.

Crack a Can of Vive

Vive is a lightly sparkling natural energy drink, full of brain-boosting ingredients to help you think and thrive. Known as nootropics, these ingredients can help spark clearer thought, improved focus and a sharper memory.

Vive contains natural brain-boosting ingredients including: 

• L-Theanine: Proven to support cognitive functions such as focus and memory and helping to balance the chemicals that regulate our mood and stress levels.
• Panax Ginseng: shown to benefit mental wellbeing by improving mood, suppressing stress, and helping to fight feelings of fatigue.
• Green Coffee Bean: holds less caffeine meaning we get focus without the jitters. Plus when combined with L-Theanine, we can maintain calm and balance.
• Vitamin C: supports brain processing, helping regulate mood & control anxious feelings.
• Vitamin B: Containing B3, B5, B6, B9 and B12, the vive B mix supports brain function and helps our body produce the energy we need to thrive.

Incorporating targeted brain-training exercises like learning a new skill and working on jigsaw puzzles into your routine can provide a focused and effective approach to enhancing memory and focus. Remember to personalise your brain-training journey by choosing activities that resonate with your interests. Savour the joy of acquiring new skills and the satisfaction of completing challenges, knowing that you are actively sculpting a sharper and more focused mind.