5 Weird Brain Exercises That Help You Get Smarter

Giving your brain new experiences will keep it healthier. Try these exercises to sharpen your mind

BRUSH TEETH WITH YOUR NONDOMINANT HAND

Research has shown that using the opposite side of your brain (as in this exercise) can result in a rapid and substantial expansion in the parts of the cortex that control and process tactile information from the hand.

SHOWER WITH YOUR EYES CLOSED

Try using just your tactile senses to clean yourself (using common sense to avoid burn or injury). Locate the taps solely by feel, and adjust the temperature. Then wash, shampoo, and so on with your eyes shut.

TURN FAMILIAR OBJECTS UPSIDE DOWN

When you look at things right-side up, your left “verbal” brain quickly labels it and diverts your attention elsewhere. When they’re upside down, your right brain networks kick in, trying to interpret the shapes, colours and relationships of a puzzling picture.

EAT UNFAMILIAR FOODS

Your olfactory system can distinguish millions of odours byactivating unique combinations of receptors in your nose. There’s a direct link to the emotional centre of your brain, so new odours may evoke unexpected feelings and associations.

MAKE MORE SOCIAL CONNECTIONS DURING YOUR DAY

Research has repeatedly proved that social deprivation has negative effects on cognitive abilities. Buy a drink from a person rather than a vending machine.