• Mind Gamesthe game image by CraterValley Photo from Fotolia.com
  
  Just as with all other parts of the body, the brain performs better when it is exercised. Although it has been shown through scientific evidence that constant focus on exercising the brain in specific mannerisms can improve its function---rarely is it the case that people focus on this central organ. Even older people and children can benefit from regular brain exercise and grow new neurons that allow better functioning of the mind.
  
  

Switching Roles

• Being extremely elastic the brain can learn new behaviors quickly. A great way to improve your brain's function is by constantly introducing it to new behaviors. One such method is by switching the roles of daily habits.
  
  Try switching the hand that you use for your computer mouse. It should be difficult at first, but with time you learn a new behavior resulting in new neurons. You can also switch hands for your phone, as well as brushing your teeth. When you actively create new neurons on a regular basis, the overall process becomes quicker and simpler.
  
  

Muscle Building

• An experiment found that your mind can alter your physical attributes. The experiment took a group of subjects and asked them to think about improving muscle strength in a localized area. The experiment included the pinkie and elbow.
  By imagining an increase in muscle strength for five minutes per day over 12 weeks---subjects showed a 13 to 35 percent increase in strength. The incredible aspect is that brain scans showed that the concentration upon the area caused improved strength gains due to the brain's signaling improvements.
  
  

Reading and Games

• Found to stimulate the brain tremendously are puzzles, games and reading, especially when focused on problem solving and logic. Learning new languages and hobbies has a similar effect.
  
  Watching television is not considered to help the brain. Although some shows might provide intellectual stimulation, for the most part, the brain switches into neutral and is not very active during television viewing. Studies have found that if reading habits were created before the age of 18, newer habits become easier to instill throughout the rest of that person's life.
  
  For the elderly, games like Bingo have been shown to help in preventing memory loss. The same effects are commonly found in children and their ability to learn in school.