When is the last time you felt intellectually challenged? Was it today? Was it last week? Was it back in college? If you have to think about the answer to that question for more than a couple of seconds, it’s time to seriously consider whether you’re giving your mind enough stimulation on a daily basis.

Here are some ways to nurture your noggin and boost your brainpower:

• Read the paper. Whether you peruse the news at the kitchen table or on your computer, thinking about current events and learning about happenings and priorities in other cultures is one way to challenge yourself.
• Tackle the crossword or Sudoku. Analytical problem solving tasks like these puzzles will keep your mind sharp, and may equip you with some little known words and facts to bust out at cocktail parties.
• Visit the library. Whether you prefer fiction or nonfiction, fluffy or serious, reading for even a few minutes away will stimulate your brain, improve your communication skills, and probably expand your vocabulary. Go the extra mile by stepping out of your comfort zone with an author or genre you wouldn’t ordinarily read.
• Take a class. Ballet, basket weaving, photography, auto repair, organic chemistry, whatever you want. School’s not just for kids, and you don’t have to pursue a degree to get your learn on. Check out you local college, university, or Learning Annex.
• Sit outside and do nothing. No music, phone, magazine — nothing. Observe your surroundings. See where you mind goes. Think about your day. Solve a problem. Make up stories in your head about passersby. Eavesdrop.
• Write. A letter, a journal, a list, whatever. But write it. With a piece of paper and a pen, not a keyboard and a computer screen. Do it daily. Savor it.

How do you feed your mind?

Contents © Copyright 2007 Kristen King

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