Mental fitness during
your vacation

It’s no surprise that vacations are associated with mental health and happiness. In fact, research shows that regular vacationing lowers the risk of heart disease and boosts your well-being. There is also a downside. Some scientists doubt that vacationing is good for your mental fitness. There are insights that show that prolonged inaction temporarily makes your brain less sharp. According to Professor Siegfried Lehrl of the University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, a long period without stimuli can slightly lower your cognitive functions.

Sunbathing or relaxing during your vacation? When you are little active, less oxygen goes to the brain. Certain nerve cells then function less efficiently. Hot weather can also cause fluid loss, temporarily reducing the volume of brain cells. Fortunately, this effect is reversible and you can keep your mental fitness active with the following tips, no matter the time of year!

Unknown destination

A new environment puts your working memory on edge. Orienting, making choices and assessing unfamiliar situations excite the brain. It has the same positive effect as picking up a new hobby.

Move!

Walking, biking or swimming laps in the pool; exercise stimulates the production of new brain cells and improves blood flow. It not only keeps your body vital but also strengthens your mental acuity.

Brain training course

Mental challenge supports your concentration and memory. Ten minutes a day with a puzzle or strategic game is enough to keep your brain active. Think Scrabble, chess or sudoku, for example!

Chewing well

Research shows that chewing increases blood flow to brain areas involved in attention and memory. Chewing gum can therefore have a surprising effect on your concentration.

Any drop in sharpness after a long period of relaxation is fortunately only temporary. Within four days, your brain is functioning as before! Taking rest remains valuable, as long as you use a small part of the day to keep your brain active as well. Happy holidays!