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Remember this! 5 easy ways to improve memory retention

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Remember this! 5 easy ways to improve memory retention

As employees with demanding schedules and responsibilities, we want to make sure the time invested in learning is well spent – with measurable, quality results. Learning new material we’ll need to understand in order to do our jobs better is done best when our minds are well-oiled machines. As a new intern with Omniplex, some of my time in the office is spent learning exciting ways eLearning is provided as a solutions to our customers. I’ve outlined 5 things I currently do to ensure that my mind is fully ready to absorb all new information.

1. Feed the brain

Superfoods have been all the rage lately, like kale, goji berries, and acai – the choices are endless. But if you aren’t interested in something so exotic, that’s okay, there are so many other delicious foods that are packed full of nutrients to rev up our brains. For example, blueberries actually have flavonoids that help improve learning and cognitive function. Avocados and fatty fish like salmon are a great source of omega 3 acids, which help improve focus and memory. If you’re one of those people who spend long periods of your day in front of your computer screen, try foods that contain lutein, such as broccoli and spinach, to help maintain healthy vision. Eat up!

2. Speaking of food, bite size is best

eLearning courses can be daunting, even to the best learners. Make sure to divide learning objectives into bite-sized chunks to avoid being overwhelmed. It’s also great to scatter easy bits between the more challenging ones. Finally, make sure not to rush through modules at the last minute! Studies have shown that learning in a high pressure, time constrained environment leads to poor long-term memory recall.

3. Slow down, take a break

It’s true, short breaks are proven to increase productivity, sharpen focus and refresh the mind. Without breaks your mind becomes fatigued, just like any other muscle. Been sitting for a while? Thankfully, there’s “Deskersize”, the gem to a neck and shoulder pains remedy. Clasp your hands above your head and stretch upwards. Hold and lean from side to side if you are feeling extra tight. I do this to work out my muscle kinks and give my brain a break.

4. Put your headphones on and press play

Music is known for being a great mood lifter but did you know that it could also enhance your learning? Numerous studies have concluded that listening to music while learning improves some people’s cognitive performance. They say that when there’s simultaneous use of the right and left side of the brain, it can maximize memory retention. Classical tunes such as Mozart and Bach are especially suitable but if that’s not quite your style, I’m sure whatever’s on your Spotify playlist should do the trick.

5. Meditate

Meditation really is an unsung hero in the modern era of fast pace lifestyles. Research has shown that meditation can improve memory recall in as little as 8 weeks. Besides memory retention, hitting the pause button and adding a little mindfulness everyday can increase productivity and improve mental clarity. So close your laptop, quiet your mind, focus on your breath and escape the clutter that fills your head.

What else helps you improve your memory skills?