When it comes to staying healthy as we age, we often think of physical exercises like weightlifting, walking, or stretching. However, there is another important aspect that is sometimes forgotten: the brain also needs to exercise just like the body.
Balance and Coordination Exercises
There are simple exercises that may not initially be considered as 'exercise'; however, to perform them, the brain must constantly process information about the body's position and send necessary commands to the muscles.
A neuroscientist has mentioned her daily habits for aging healthier in an article and introduced three less commonly noted exercises. These movements require no special equipment or gym and can be easily performed in a few minutes.
Simple Movements
Standing on one leg may seem simple, but to maintain balance, the body requires precise cooperation between the eyes, inner ear, muscles, and brain. When you lift one leg off the ground, the brain continuously analyzes information such as body position and weight distribution. To start, you can stand next to a wall or a sturdy chair and lift one leg off the ground.
The next move is walking heel to toe. This movement limits the body's base of support and makes maintaining balance more challenging. You can start with 5 to 10 steps and, if you feel unstable, perform this exercise near a wall.
The other movement involves bringing hands to the opposite knees. This exercise helps coordinate the hands and feet in a specific movement pattern and engages your attention in the movement. If it seems a bit strange at first, don't worry. Slow down and focus on performing the movement correctly.
The human body does not only need muscle strength; balance, coordination, and the ability to control movements also become significantly important with age. Balance and coordination exercises teach the body to receive sensory information and combine it with an appropriate motor response in various conditions.
Although these three simple movements cannot stop or reverse the aging process of the brain, regular physical activity alongside strength, aerobic, balance, and coordination exercises can be an important part of a healthy lifestyle in middle age and older adulthood. By dedicating a few minutes of your day to balance and coordination training, you can contribute to your health.
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