We have always heard that a sedentary lifestyle is as detrimental to health as smoking. And it is certainly true. A sedentary lifestyle, if not corrected, can do more irreparable damage to your physical and mental health. However, there are a few non-demanding, sedentary activities that could stimulate your cognitive function and improve brain health.
A latest study sheds light on sedentary activities that can give your brain a boost as opposed to those that can risk its degeneration. During winters, some may find it challenging to stay physically active every day. It’s okay to take a step back and enjoy some down time. But it is important to indulge in sedentary activities that could boost brain health.
About the study
A new study conducted by the researchers at University of South Australia has emerged stating that certain sedentary activities can be beneficial for overall brain health. It said that activities like reading or crafting can keep the brain stimulated and are better than simply watching TV or gaming.
A study conducted with 397 older adults concluded that mentally stimulating and socially engaging activitiescan boost memory and thinking abilities, while passive screen time can result in cognitive decline.
It also stated that 45% of dementia cases are linked to modifiable lifestyle factors. Researchers suggested picking more mentally engaging activitiesto improve brain health rather than doomscrolling everyday.
One of the researchers said that, “In this research, we found that the context of an activity alters how it relates to cognitive function, with different activities providing varying levels of cognitive stimulation and social engagement.”
5 Mentally stimulating sedentary activities that can improve brain health
A UniSA researcher said, “Socially or mentally stimulating activities include reading, listening to music, praying, crafting, playing a musical instrument, or chatting with others are beneficial for memory and thinking abilities.” Here are six sedentary activities that could improve your brain health according to the research:
1. Reading
According to the aforementioned study, talking and engaging with others can also boost your brain health. A researcher said, “We found that sedentary behaviours which promote mental stimulation or social engagement—such as reading or talking with friends-–-are beneficial for cognitive function.”
4. Crafts
We know that crafting for adults can be highly relaxing. But crafting can also keep your mind alert and active creatively, without exhausting it. It can be a stress busting tool or something that gives you a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction. It improves mental agility effectively.
5. Playing a musical instrument
Playing a musical instrument or learning to play a musical instrument can also help give you a cognitive boost. This activity uses almost every part of your brain. It increases memory capability and improves time-management skills.
A study from 2003 in the Journal of Neuroscience compared the brains of professional musicians, amateur musicians, and non-musicians. It found an increase in gray matter in many areas of the brain of professional musicians. The amateur musicians had less grey matter in those areas, and the non-musicians had the least gray matter.
Social and lead images credits: Freepik
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