If you’ve been around a while, you’ve likely heard me give hundreds of these education moments. And they often fall into a few important categories. But in an effort to expand what I believe will support us as individuals and as a collective, I’ve been thinking about what else outside the box might help us become better networkers.
So today, let’s look at some things neurologists wish we’d do for our brains. It seems obvious but we can’t do much of anything without a healthy brain, let alone connect, create referrals, and close business. But even beyond that, according to the experts, as many as 45 percent of dementia cases could be delayed or prevented with help from some simple changes in behavior.
So listen up. And if nothing else, you’ll have some new facts to share in your upcoming conversations.
Wear a helmet — Experts say that protecting your head is the single most important step you can take to safeguard your brain. Brain injuries and concussions can worsen cognition overall, and in some cases cause dementia. So especially during active sports like skiing, biking, and stepping to the plate in softball, protect your dome.
Use earplugs — Those with hearing loss have a greater risk for cognitive decline. Scientists believe it may be because the part of the brain that processes hearing is close to the part responsible for memory. So use earplugs when you’re around loud sounds. And once you’re over the age 50, get your hearing checked every one to three years.
Get your eyes checked — Scientists also believe vision loss is linked to cognitive decline. We’re a pretty young bunch. But one study found that about a third of adults over 71 who had moderate to severe vision impairment also had dementia. Scheduling regular eye exams could help minimize that risk.
Take a walk, and swap your chair for a stool — Billy Joe Young knows this all too well, and so say neurologists that exercise increases blood flow and oxygen to the brain. Even just walking a half mile can offer rewards. And if you sit most of the day, stand up or walk around every 20 minutes. It’s good for you. And so is using a seat that forces you to engage your core.
Manage your cholesterol — I’m sure Victoria Dorsano can shed more light here, but LDL, or “bad” cholesterol, can harden our arteries and restrict blood flow to the brain. Eating legumes, whole grains, and fruits and vegetables, along with maintaining a healthy weight and doing regular aerobic exercise, can help manage cholesterol levels and keep us on the right track.
Floss every day — Josh Perlman has this covered, but oral hygiene is essential for preventing infections and gum disease. Which, if left unchecked and spread to the sinuses, could trigger clots or drainage problems in the brain. Floss, brush, and regularly visit the dentist, and you’ll keep your teeth and gums healthy, and help avert any issues.
Join a book club — Carmela Bennett knows that maintaining an active social life can help keep the negative effects of isolation — such as depression — at bay. Those who have a strong social support system are typically in better overall health than the ones who don’t. Even scheduling regular dinners with close friends or family members can make a big difference.
Watch your neck — Our necks supply blood to our brains, and neck injuries can restrict that blood flow, minimizing the brain’s oxygen. Dr’s report seeing plenty of neck twists from car accidents and other injuries. So avoid any sudden twisting or pulling movements. And even when it comes to massage guns, focus on the upper back and shoulders, rather than the neck.
Sleep well — Improving the amount of time you spend sleeping, and the quality of that sleep, can go a long way toward helping you stay sharp. Blackout shades can help regulate your body’s circadian rhythm. And If you find it hard to get to sleep, experts recommend reading or meditating, and turning off devices that shed blue light at least 30 min before sleep time. A rested mind is crucial, as sleep helps consolidate memories and clear out cellular debris from the brain.
Hopefully the potential issues mentioned weren’t too much of a downer this morning. And we all understand that it’s in service of our health and positivity. Which can only make us better networkers and grow both physically and in our businesses.
Here’s to a great meeting. And a happy, healthy, and powerful day!
