The entire process of storing, retaining and recalling information is known as memory. Many a times we have thought about how bad we fare on our mental capacity to remember things but we seldom take it seriously however recessing memory is a serious health disorder. Action taken early can go a long way in restoring our mental health.

Experts have designed so many ways to overcome the disorder or improve the condition. One of such tools is called mnemonics it enhances our capacity to remember things based on similarity. It is the neurons in our brain that send and receive signals. The stronger neurons connections are the better the memory is. If we practice ways to strengthen and protect them it can go a long way in ensuring a better memory, which generally degrades with age and mental disorders such as stress. So one should try reducing stress and getting involved in leisure activities. Try to experience new experiences and skills and move away from routine functions. Try new adventures and challenges and give body and mind new environments to function. Exercise regularly and do include brisk walk and cardiovascular exercises to enhance blood flow to brain to enhance its growth. Stimulate brain by involving oneself in brainstorming puzzles and quizzes. Read thru various magazines and books and stay update with newspapers. Try retaining as much information as possible and recall on a regular basis by referring to them in conversation. Avoid medication such as antidepressants and sleeping aids, as they tend to dull our mind. One should also try to kick unhealthy habits such as smoking, drinking and getting involved in drugs/doping. Making sure to get adequate hours of sleep (minimum 8 hours per day) also ensures to help our brain stay active.

Memory can be long term or short term, few people boast of amazing memory they remember things as old as 20 years or more. Whereas some people might not even remember last week activities. It typically also depends on attention paid, it is researched that if one focuses for about 8 seconds or more the information is stored in the memory center of brain. Undistracted attention and avoiding multitasking also ensures information retention. Trying to involve as many senses to relate to information and recalling it by relating to it also helps in strengthening memory. Organizing information in a better way of referring back to when required for e.g. using address book or appointment diaries. Breaking down complex material into bits and pieces and interpreting them also helps in boosting memory.

Diseases such as diabetes and other cardiovascular diseases also affect memory. Stress also makes it difficult to concentrate and remember things. Eating healthy can help in restoring memory and generate healthy brain cells. It also helps to fight adverse effect of medication. Leafy green vegetables and legumes help to generate red blood cells that carry oxygen to the brain. Vitamin B, C and beta-carotene also acts as antioxidants and improve flow of oxygen thru body and brain. These naturally good substances are found in fruits and vegetables such as sweet potato, blue berries tomatoes, spinach, broccoli, green tea, citrus fruits, liver and nuts. Omega 3 fatty acids founds in cod liver oil and other fresh water fishes like salmon and tuna is good for cognitive functions. It is also found in certain vegetarian food such as walnut and flaxseed. On the other hand there are supplements to overcome deficiencies such as vitamin b and folic acid capsules or health food fortified with such vitamins. These foods if taken in adequate quantity can help boost heart functions that in turn supplies blood to brain and will improve neuron functions leading to better memory.