Rekindle curiosity

Try not to switch off when the subject turns to something unfamiliar. Instead, be curious. Looking outside your comfort zone not only opens your mind, it primes it. “The myth is that we don’t grow new neurons or make new brain connections when we’re older – that’s not true,” says Dr Levitin. “Every new experience is a new brain connection, at any age. And if you stop having new experiences, your brain apathies, it slows down and that can be the beginning of a real decline.” You might be surprised how much newness you can find. Have you taken a interest in your partner’s hobbies? Could you take a virtual tour at a far-flung museum or art gallery?