Ways To Improve Your Memory

I have been teaching memory classes for 15 years based on my practice of Yoga. There are many yogic techniques that can help improve and protect our memory.

The most powerful tool for memory is the spine. There is a spinal fluid that runs up the spine and feeds the brain. It brings oxygen, blood and nutrients to the brain. When the spine becomes restricted and tight, and is not properly stretched, worked and used, it restricts the flow of these nutrients to the brain. This causes memory loss.

I believe this is why many people who have had back injuries report to me that they also have noticed problems with their focus, concentration and memory. This is also why people who practice Yoga claim to have improved their focus, concentration and memory. The movement and strengthening of the spine is emphasized in Yoga. I also believe the movement in Yoga stimulates the Kundalini energy that moves up the spine, and that also improves memory.

Every man’s memory is his private literature ~ Aldous Huxley

In my experience a healthy plant-based diet will also improve memory, just like a processed food diet will diminish memory. A lot of teachers have gotten flack for reprimanding parents who put junk food in their children’s lunch boxes, but the reality is these children will not be as focused , and will not be able to retain information like their classmates eating a healthier diet. I have worked with kids for 30 years and can tell you the ones who eat sugar and consume caffeine are often much slower with regards sequential memory and retention, and they more often have attention span issues and they tend to be moody and difficult to work with.

Studies have shown that people who continue to learn something new, such as a language, dance, or martial arts, have better memories. Learning a new skill stimulants the part of the brain that works on memory.

Dance is one of the most valuable activities for enhanced memory. It works both the left and right sides of the brain at the same time. It also helps the brain differentiate left from right. Many people have issues with this, and it can be improved. Dance also forces the brain to think and work on sequential memory. Learning a set of steps, one linked to the next in choreography, has been shown to improve memory. I also believe it also gets the energy in the chakras and aura moving which improves mental function and well-being. Dance makes us feel youthful, and brings us joy.

Exercise in general helps with mental functioning. It make us more alert, gets our physical, psychic and energetic juices flowing. The hormones that are released during exercise make us feel uplifted, positive about life and happier.

Memory is a way of holding onto the things you love, the things you are, the things you never want to lose ~ The Wonder Years

It’s best to avoid any toxins, pills, drugs, alcohol and even foods sprayed with pesticides (non-organic foods), because all these things can cause memory loss. Aluminum found in pots, pans, deodorant cans and even baking soda have also been linked to Alzheimer and problems with memory. I also believe excessive use of technology can create memory loss. Anything that makes us disconnect emotionally, and also exposes us to radiation, may in time cause issues with memory.

I believe the most important thing for memory is to deal with reality. I have found that people in denial, who tend not to see themselves in an unbiased way, are more prone to memory issues. They only remember what suits them. It is important to think positively, but also deal with reality. See your part in every situation. People who don’t grow, mature and evolve are not practicing reality or dealing with reality.

It is impossible to have a good memory if you are telling yourself lies. Be honest with others and yourself. The saying goes, “If you tell the truth you don’t have to have a good memory.” But the opposite also holds true: “If you want a good memory, simply tell the truth”.