Our mental health is just as important as our physical health, and just as there are steps we can take to look after and improve our physical health; there are also ways we can improve our cognitive ability.
With many of us currently stuck inside this is especially important at the moment, and there couldn't be a better time to get started. Perhaps you have been learning a musical instrument, taken the time to catch up with some reading, or started a new craft project? Word and number games can also be great fun, and an excellent opportunity to get the whole family involved.
'Which?' has a great article with examples of cognitive exercise - we have included a link to the full article for you to browse below. Although the main focus is helping people with dementia, the same principles can be applied to anyone.
Reading and writing are also a tried and tested method of keeping the brain active and engaged. The benefits of being able to lose yourself in a good book are huge: it can increase vocabulary, reduce anxiety, and teach us new skills. Writing can improve memory and help to organise our thoughts - maybe now is the right time to start that diary?