Growing old means your body starts to slow down and will need more rest, as compared to the physique that your younger body once had. This is true for every single person. However, it should not be the same truth for cognitive health. The brain can still maintain its sharpness and energy as a young person has with the proper care and health, even for older adults who are enjoying senior living in their golden years.

The gray matter found in the brain is a key component that has glial cells, synapses, capillaries, neuronal cell bodies, and neuropil. Each of these components is vital for the central nervous system to function properly and healthily. To put it simply, the gray matter in the brain ensures that the brain functions like a prime, even when the body starts to age. Thus, keeping the gray matter healthy is important to keep the brain working well. Here are 5 super brain yoga exercises for seniors to help boost their gray matter.

1. Tadasana Or Mountain Pose

The practice of clearing the mind and focusing to temporarily remove any unwanted or negative thoughts in the mind has long been an effective practice for both the young and old to relax the mind which the body then follows. This is a manifestation of performing yoga and is a powerful way to keep your mind healthy and maintain positive thoughts.

The Tadasana, also known as the Mountain Pose, is a simple yoga pose that focuses on breathing and relaxing. It is done by simply standing straight, keep the pelvis and legs on a level, roll the shoulders back and focus on clearing the mind. Focus on breathing for a short period, depending on your need. Breathe in slowly and when breathing out, whisper a gentle “ha”.

2. Word Games

Playing word games is an excellent brain teaser that tickles the logical part of the brain. Playing puzzles, crosswords, Sudoku, word searches, scrabble and other word games are effective in keeping the brain active on simple terms. It also works on the logical part of the brain by doing a little practice, and basically not overdoing on the thinking process to tire out the brain. Regularly playing word games can maintain the activeness of the mind.

3. Bhramari Pranayama

The Bhramari Pranayama is a yoga pose that works on the cognitive part of the brain that deals with memory, emotions, and concentration. This yoga pose can be easily adaptable for seniors and requires less body positioning that other yoga poses. Look for a quiet, relaxing spot and follow the yoga pose. Follow the humming bee breathing technique and this will help with memory and dealing with negative emotions.

Place your index finger in the area between your ears and cheek while continuing the humming bee breathing. The quietness of the space and the breathing will bring the body to a relaxing stance.

4. Music

Music has always provided a sense of calm, positivity and fulfillment, especially in older adults who listen to calming and relaxing music. Music is an effective way to keep the mind relaxed or active depending on the genre chosen. For retirees who are enjoying their golden years, it can be even more fulfilling if they learn the play musical instruments and they get to play their favorite tunes. Retirement can give seniors more time on their hands, which means they can learn as many musical instruments as they want.

5. Athletic Activities

Being an older adult does not mean becoming inactive in athletic activities, especially if they have been athletic in the younger years. They can probably lower down the intensity of some of the sporting and athletic activities are chosen, but staying active is an effective way to keep the blood flow throughout the body healthy, particularly the brain. A healthy blood flow means well for cognitive health.

You can never start too early when it comes to keeping the brain healthy, but it is also never too late. Not taking care of your mental health may lead you to seek help from dementia care homes for seniors, so make sure you are always on top of your games when it comes to cognitive exercises and stimulation. Cognitive health is vital to keep memories alive, maintain the sharpness of the brain, creativity, humor and all aspects that relate to emotions. The brain controls the body and its functions. Keep the brain healthy no matter what age you may be.