How to Improve Mental Stamina

Optimal mental fitness involves exercising and conditioning your brain so that it is not only healthy and free from disease or injury, but also stronger and more flexible. When you stretch the capabilities of your brain, you increase well-being, improve memory and enhance creativity.

Instructions

1

Follow a Mediterranean diet. Originally developed to promote a healthy heart, this diet also enhances brain function. High in omega-3 fats from olive oil and fish, this diet is rich in fruits, vegetables, legumes and cereals. Dairy consumption is low to moderate, and alcohol intake is limited to a glass of wine with meals.

2

Exercise regularly to improve mental stamina. In his book "Change Your Brain, Change Your Body," Dr. Daniel Amen recommends that you combine aerobic exercise with some form of coordination movement. According to Amen, dancing and table tennis are the safest activities. He particularly likes table tennis, which he calls aerobic chess. Your eyes, hands and feet work together while you are thinking about the spins of the ball.

3

Develop a magnificent obsession. In his book "Think Smart," Dr. Richard Restak suggests that these obsessions serve as antidotes for stress and also help develop new brain circuitry. If you have a tendency to worry and ruminate, take up an activity that is far removed from your background, education or life experience. Then, start learning everything you can about the subject. For example, if you are interested in woodworking, take courses and spend time each day working on specific projects.

4

Get out of your comfort zone and make one small change each day. Buy or borrow a magazine that you don't usually read but interests you. When renting a DVD, browse through a section you normally pass over. Instead of picking up a romantic comedy, choose a science-fiction or foreign-language film. Buy an unfamiliar food like quinoa or daikon and use it in a new recipe.

5

Reach out to other people. Social isolation has been recognized as a significant hazard to healthy brain function. A 2007 research study of 800 seniors in the Chicago area discovered that participants with diminished social contacts were twice as likely to develop Alzheimer's. If your social network has shrunk in size, take steps to increase the number of meaningful relationships. Join a club or two, volunteer your services and increase the amount of time you spend each day engaged in activities with other people.