Use it or lose it. This philosophy seems to have so many applications as we get older, doesn’t it? We exercise daily to keep our muscle tone intact. We read and watch the news to keep up on daily events. We eat healthy foods to keep our bodies healthy and help prevent diseases. But what are we doing to keep our memories sharp and fit?

Unfortunately, many of us don’t think about keeping our memories sharp as we age. We attribute those increasingly frequent lapses of memory as the progression of years, or perhaps (gulp!) the beginning symptoms of dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. However, scientists are continuing to find evidence that suggests that a deteriorating memory may actually be a result of lack of use. The good news is that there is a solution to this remembering problem – and it can actually be more enjoyable than you think!

When was the last time you indulged yourself with a challenging crossword puzzle from the Sunday newspaper? Or enjoyed a game of Solitaire on your computer – or the old fashioned way, with a deck of cards? Have you checked out the newest rage in mental puzzles, called Sodoku? If you have answered an emphatic “no” to any or all of these questions, it may be time to start thinking about fitness for your memory!

It doesn’t matter whether your mind swings more to numbers, words or strategy games. You can find a challenging mental game that you enjoy, and this will make it much more likely that you will find the time for your puzzles every day. Some folks find that a crossword puzzle before bed will clear their minds and help them sleep. Others prefer to spend lunch hour with a deck of cards or an electronic Sodoku game. You can grab a partner to enjoy a daily go at Scrabble or Cribbage if competition is more to your liking. “Just do it,” as one popular shoe manufacturer used to say, and your mind is guaranteed to repay you with sharper thinking skills and an enhanced memory.

Other fun activities that will keep your memory fit are to learn a new craft or foreign language. You are never too old to pick up a new skill or hobby! Take a class in something you have always wanted to learn, but were always hesitant to try. What, exactly, have you got to lose? Even indulging in a paperback mystery will put your mind back in action. If you prefer, pick up a heavier read that deals with religion or philosophy. Your mind will need to keep working if you are going to dissect topics so complex. And you will undoubtedly enjoy this walk on the intellectual side for a change of pace.

So how often should you grant yourself the luxury of a puzzle, game or great read? Would every day seem like too much? Probably not, when you discover how much fun exercising your mind can be. If you are new to this memory fitness game, your local discount or grocery store will probably be a good place to start. These merchants usually offer a plethora of inexpensive books and magazines that will give you plenty of fun for your buck. Or check out the games on your computer software. I guarantee that you will find yourself addicted to challenges like FreeCell or Spider Solitaire in no time at all. Enjoy those games!

For more tips on how to improve your memory, please visit, Powerful Ways to Sharpen Your Memory - where you will learn tips on how to easily remember names, faces, numbers, events and almost any information, using simple yet powerful techniques that even a 12 year old can apply.

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