Neurobics

Created by Lawrence C. Katz, Ph.D., a professor of neurobiology at Duke University Medical Center, neurobics is a unique system of brain exercises using your five physical senses and your emotional sense in unexpected ways that encourage you to shake up your everyday routines. Studies have shown that even small changes in daily patterns cause brain stimulation.

Neurobics can be done anywhere, anytime, in offbeat, fun and easy ways. These exercises can activate underused nerve pathways and connections, helping you achieve a fit and flexible mind:

    Drive to work a different route
    Get dressed with your eyes closed
    Brush your teeth with the other hand
    Unlock the door with your eyes closed
    Use your opposite hand to dial the phone or operate the TV remote
    Listen to music and smell flowers at the same time
    Shop at new grocery store

Research has suggested that using your left hand if you're right handed or your right if you're left handed more often, can help stimulate parts of the brain that you don't normally use.