Short Term Memory : Five Ways to Improve Memory Free of Complexities

Article by Randy S.Jenkins

It doesn’t matter if you’re just afraid of losing your memory with age or are cramming for a big test tomorrow – you just want to improve your memory without having to resort to daily detailed mind exercises. This could be because you just want relatively simple ways to begin improving your memory performance.

Aside from regular mental exercises such as crossword puzzles (or any puzzle, really) and quizzes, here are some basic activities and habits you can pick up to answer your questions on mental ability and almost effortlessly Improve your Memory for Free.

1. Pay attention. This is one of those things that are easier said than done but here’s the thing: All the information we gather goes through our sensory memory first before getting stored into the short-term memory and later the long-term memory. The brain processes information through selective attention. This means that the brain chooses only the information it deems are important based on the feedback it gets from your senses. Logically speaking, if you focus your senses (a.k.a. your attention) on a specific information source, you are more likely able to transfer the information to your short-term memory – and it only takes about eight seconds to do so. If you are having trouble focusing your attention, it is advisable to seek a quiet place to concentrate.

2. Learn and express yourself. Paint. Dance. Teach. Take up another degree. Learn a new skill. Take up a hobby. Any of these can improve memory free of stress. These will not only let you loosen up and have fun but also increases brain activity and maintains it on a regular basis. Studies show that this kind of mental stimulation reduces the risk for dementia.3. Write. These need not be long diary entries or a winning novel. Just write. Write down your appointments or to-do list and stick them somewhere easy to see like the fridge, your corkboard or even on your office desk. Writing these down helps create imagery which you can use to associate with the words that form your memory. Besides, planners and lists also help you keep track of things that you might not deem as important, are only temporary, or take some time to get used to (like the week’s menu or shopping list, appointments, or birthdays). This practice also lowers your risk for Alzheimer’s disease as writing and packing your ideas in written sentences has always been an indicator of one’s vulnerability for the disease.4. Interact with people. Interaction is proven beneficial as it decreases the risk for mental decline. Also, interaction can trigger recollection of some memories which in turn can trigger other memories. Reminiscing old memories with family or friends can also lead to them remembering other long-forgotten moments; it’s a good way to support each other. Sharing these memories and even facts also fixes the information in your memory.

5. Get enough rest or take a nap. Resting refreshes the mind for another round of information to take in. Naps during the day, however, help you retain the information you have taken earlier since long-term memories are formed during these few minutes of sleep. On the other hand, lack of rest may lead to exhaustion and confusion.

Now these practices will form habits that would strengthen your memory performance and improve memory free of difficulties. However, keep in mind that these are supplements to having a set way or technique of remembering things more effectively.

Related Short Term Memory Articles