While we do a lot to keep our physical bodies in shape – diet, exercise, walking etc, we seldom pay attention to our mental state of mind. Amidst the chaotic world we live in, riddled with fear, anxiety, and stress, our mind is always in fast forward, and rarely gets time to rest (not even when we are sleeping!) However, apart from eating a well balanced diet, there are some ancient hacks that can sharpen our brain as well. These will not only make you sharper, but also bring calm to your frayed nerves and chaotic senses. Take a look. (source:doclogues)MeditationMeditation is one of the oldest brain hacks, dating back thousands of years, and is the foundation of mental peace. This practice involves quieting the mind and focusing attention, often on the breath, or a mantra. There have been enough studies to confirm that meditation reduces activity in the amygdala—the brain’s fear and stress center—while boosting the prefrontal cortex, which helps with attention, decision-making, and emotional regulation.
Regular meditation helps break the cycle of constant internal chatter, allowing the mind to experience a calm, focused state. Studies show that long-term meditators have more gray matter in brain areas linked to sensory processing and awareness, which can translate into sharper focus and better memory. Meditation also triggers epigenetic changes, helping the body’s deepest healing mechanisms at the genetic level, making it a powerful tool for long-term brain health.Yoga and BreathworkThose who understand Yoga know that it is more than physical exercise; it’s a holistic practice combining postures, breath control, and meditation. There is research to prove that those who do Yoga everyday have higher oxygen levels in the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex during breathwork, an area critical for planning, attention, and emotional control.Breathwork, especially slow abdominal breathing, makes oxygen flow to the brain better, improving cognition, memory, and emotional regulation. The rhythmic movements and postures in yoga also activate different brain regions, that better mental clarity and reduces stress.Ayurvedic NootropicsAyurveda offers natural nootropics—herbs that enhance cognitive function. One of the most studied Ayurvedic herbs is Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), known for its ability to improve memory, reaction time, and executive function.Ashwagandha extracts can reduce anxiety and stress, while also enhancing cognitive flexibility and working memory in healthy adults. This herb contains bioactive compounds like withanolides that support brain health and may work synergistically with other treatments.FastingFasting is a fad that has caught attention in the last few decades. But in reality, it is an ancient practice that has a host of health benefits. (and not done just for religious/festive purposes) Intermittent fasting triggers a process called autophagy, where the body clears out damaged cells and recycles useful components, effectively cleaning up the brain at a cellular level.
This clean up of the body reduces inflammation, protects neurons, and promotes the formation of new neural connections. Many people who fast report clearer thinking, better mood, and improved focus. Fasting also enhances neuroplasticity, which is the brain’s ability to adapt and rewire itself – this can reduce stress, and prevent neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s.SquattingWhile it may seem surprising, squatting—a natural human posture can also boost brain health. Scientific evidence shows that the up-and-down motion of squatting causes blood flow to the brain to fluctuate, which stimulates the inner lining of blood vessels to release beneficial substances.This vascular stimulation improves cognition, memory, and learning by enhancing blood supply and nutrient delivery to the brain. Unlike intense cardio workouts, or new age (read complicated) workout plans, squatting is a low-impact exercise that can be done anywhere, making it an accessible and effective ancient brain hack for maintaining mental sharpness.Why These Ancient Brain Hacks Still WorkWhat makes these ancient techniques so effective even today? They all focus on balancing brain function by reducing stress, improving oxygen and nutrient flow, and promoting neural health. Unlike quick fixes or pills or fad diets, these engage the body and mind cohesively, triggering natural healing.
