Brain training is a methodology that strengthens your cognitive and emotional skills by improving neural networks in the brain so that you are able to process incoming information better. There are three simple steps that you can start with now to train your brain naturally. 

1. Reading

Reading is one of the natural ways to train your brain. Reading positive and uplifting material stimulates various cognitive functions, for example comprehension, critical thinking, and problem-solving. It helps you to process information, make connections, and understand ideas. Apart from building your vocabulary, it improves memory, stimulates your mind, and releases neurotransmitters that can maintain and improve concentration, enhance mood, focus, and overall mental well-being. It enhances your overall mental agility and resilience. During the process of reading, the left occipitotemporal cortex links each written word to its spoken forms, which is part of the brain’s reading network. This area is involved in visual word recognition, allowing you to convert text into sounds and meanings. Reading’s relation to the release of neurotransmitters is content dependant. For example, reading suspense and drama releases a different type of neurotransmitter (i.e norepinephrine) as apposed to motivational content (i.e  dopamine) . Norepinephrine is both a neurotransmitter and a hormone and is released in response to  stress, intense focus and anxiety.  Dopamine is a neurotransmitter released in response to reward and motivation. In general, reading improves overall mental health, and can even increase your lifespan. Consider daily reading – five to ten pages a day. Setting a goal of reading a minimum amount each day can create a wonderful new habit. 

2. Motivational and inspirational podcasts

Listening to motivational and inspirational podcasts can have a positive effect on the release of neurotransmitters that improves your mood, increases your motivation, and improves your overall mental well-being. Motivational podcasts has the tendency  to stimulate dopamine production by providing hope and inspiration. Dopamine is a catecholamine neurotransmitter released in the brain and helps regulate key emotional responses to impact the brain’s reward and pleasure centres.  Its positive and uplifting content helps to regulate mood, and can boost serotonin levels. Serotonin is both a neurotransmitter and hormone, present in the brain and the lining of the digestive tract. It impacts the different switches affecting various emotional states. Motivational podcasts include uplifting messages of how to improve resilience, and personal growth, which can enhance your mood and overall well-being. Listen to motivational podcasts  while cooking, cleaning, driving, or working out. Be sure to find well informed hosts that inspire you and give you good information. 

3. Meditation

Meditation is a biblical principle that God used to call on people to meditate on His Word. It has now become a very popular and effective self-care practice. Meditation means  a written or spoken discourse expressing considered thoughts on a subject. It has many physical and mental benefits, for example it reduces anxiety, strengthens self awareness and promotes mood and emotional health. GABA (Gamma-amniobutyric acid) is a neurotransmitter that plays a key role in regulating neuronal excitability and promoting calmness. Low levels of GABA have been associated with mood disorders such as anxiety and depression, insomnia, irritability, and restlessness.Meditation is thought makes you a better person and for those around you. Meditating reduces stress and improves attention span. Consider practising meditation on a  daily basis. 

These are some examples of small steps that you can take to train your brain daily. Staying consistent will improve the neural networks in your brain thus enabling you to better process information.