How to Improve Your Memory

Many grow up thinking the number of brain cells at birth was the most we’d ever have. Following that concept it leaves us addled and confused onto the steps of the financially ruinous nursing home.

While it’s true that cognitive function does slowly decline over time, there are steps you can take to help maintain a strong, healthy brain as you age.

We grow brain cells all the time. We completely rebuild—and quickly—the cells we have. We’re basically involved in a continuous remake.

Our brain is a series of circuits and pathways, and every time we do, think, or experience something, we fire a pathway. If a certain pathway fires enough times, in the right way, our brain will reinforce that circuit so we can fire it more quickly and accurately. Neuroscientists say, “what fires together, wires together.”

Perhaps you have heard that your brain is like a muscle. It’s a cliche, but it relates to four key points of learning, backed by good science:

1. To make a change we need action. Make a decision to exercise your brain and do it.

2. To make a change we need to struggle. Extend yourself and expect to struggle.

3. Making a change takes time. You wouldn’t go to the gym and do exercises to build your biceps and standing before a mirror the next day conclude they are no larger and quit.

4. Everyone can change. Believe it. These four steps can work even for you.

We need to deploy the same approach to learning and develop . So many times we try something once or twice, we don’t see results immediately. and go, “I guess I can’t learn that.” Yes you can.

One of the best known ways to grow new brain cells and improve your memory is to memorize Scripture. It might be very hard for you at first, but expect to struggle. As you stick with it you will realize it is working and even enables you to memorize more easily. Don’t let the struggle stop you, persist. It takes time to hide His word in your heart. The residual benefits are that we improve our mind, and hence our lifestyle.

Two principles need to coexist:

        * A growth mindset = I believe I can grow, and

        * Neuroplasticity = you can grow.

The growth is both mentally and spiritually by memorizing Scripture.

In doing so you will not only learn Scripture, but you will develop new brain cells that can be used to become more proficient in other mental activities.

“Study to show yourself approved by God, a workman who need not be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” (II Timothy 2: 15).