Have you ever walked into a room and completely forgotten why you went there? Or struggled to recall a recent conversation, even though you can vividly remember a moment from your childhood – like a school trip or a toy you used to play with? You’re not alone.
In today’s world, we are constantly inundated with information, juggling tasks and switching between screens. The fast pace of life, the pressure to keep up and the overuse of technology are taking a toll on our memory. But why is it easier to remember events from years ago than the more recent things?
Several factors contribute to this, and one of which is that events with strong emotional resonance – especially from childhood – are often more deeply imprinted in our brains. This is why we can easily recall something from decades ago while struggling to remember what we had for breakfast yesterday.
Furthermore, our reliance on smartphones and digital tools leads us to remember where to find information rather than the information itself. This phenomenon, known as the “Google Effect,” shows how outsourcing memory to technology can weaken our ability to store facts internally.
This is intensified by the fact that our brains have a limited capacity for holding new information, so with constant exposure to notifications, emails, news and social media, our working memory becomes overwhelmed, making it more challenging to retain what matters most.
However, if you find that you’re experiencing memory slips, don’t panic. Here are some strategies you can use to enhance your brain health and improve memory retention:
Exercise Regularly: Physical activity increases blood flow to the brain and enhances memory. Even a short walk a few times a week can help.
Stay Mentally Active: Challenge your brain with puzzles, reading, or learning something new. Just like muscles, your brain benefits from regular exercise.
Get Organised: Use calendars, apps and lists. A well-structured routine and clear reminders can greatly reduce mental strain and improve recall.
Prioritise Sleep: Aim for 7–9 hours of quality sleep each night. Good sleep is essential for memory formation and overall cognitive function.
Eat Brain-Boosting Foods: A healthy diet rich in vegetables, fruits, lean proteins and omega-3 fatty acids support long-term brain function.
Avoid Multitasking: Trying to do several things at once can reduce focus and retention. Try to give your full attention to one task at a time to improve memory performance.
Just as we take care of our physical health, it’s essential to nurture our minds with intentional habits and a balanced lifestyle. For more tips on how to take care of your well-being and to learn how to use your faith alongside any medical advice you may be receiving, join us every Tuesday for our Health Day meetings, at your nearest Universal Church.
Event: Health Day services
Day and time: Tuesdays at 7.30pm (also at 7am, 10am and 3pm)
Location: At your nearest Universal Church
Please note that the Universal Church’s spiritual advice is to be seen as a complement to the scientifically proven treatment you may be receiving. The Universal Church does not claim to heal people but believes that God can through the power of faith. Always follow your doctor’s instructions.
Sources: https://theelearningcoach.com/learning/20-facts-about-working-memory/
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Google_effect
https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/healthy-aging/in-depth/memory-loss/art-20046518
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