Mental Health

Do puzzles or brain games

For years, puzzles and Brain games have been shown to be engaging and activate multiple areas of the brain, keeping them sharp and preventing decline.

• Brain Metrix: Offers memory, focus, and logic puzzles.

• NYT Games: Daily crosswords, mini puzzles, and more.

  
  

Read articles, news, or book chapters

Reading is a great way to not just engage your brain but to see new perspectives or launch yourself into new worlds if you are reading fiction. While it is a habit many lose when they become adults, in my interviews, many doctors name reading as one of the more underrated ways to prevent cognitive decline.

• Medium: Insightful personal essays and thought pieces.

• Smithsonian Magazine: Engaging science, history, and culture articles.

• Project Gutenberg: Free classic eBooks for online reading.

  
  

Mindfulness & Emotional Regulation

Mediation and the breathing patterns associated with it calm your mind, helping you feel less stress and agitation throughout the day. You can do it by yourself or with a free guide listed below.

• Insight Timer: Free guided meditations and breathing exercises.

• Calm: Meditation and sleep stories (some free features).

• Mindful.org: How-to guides and meditation articles.

Stay socially connected

Human interaction keeps 2 key areas of your brain sharp and also increases your happiness.

• Meetup: Find online or local groups with shared interests.

• Nextdoor: Neighborhood-based support and interaction.

• Facebook Messenger: Easy one-click video or audio calls with friends/family.