The human brain is the most complex thing ever discovered, rocketing information through its neural pathways at more than 150 mph! Besides being responsible for managing all the complexities of our body, the brain is the hub for all thought, learning, memory, and emotion. But for all this hard work, it saps only about 20 percent of our energy. Every time a new thought or memory is generated, the brain’s structure changes as new connections are formed in the neural network. Neural pathways are reinforced when a thought or sensory input is repeated. In a sense, the “groove” gets deeper with each repetition. This is one reason it’s so critical to be aware of what’s traveling through our senses and into our brains, and this is why our thoughts are vitally important.

Our brain is an amazing gift, and it’s just common sense to take good care of this incredible miracle of engineering. It is in the brain that we enjoy life and relate to others, and it’s through our intellect that our Creator speaks to us. Unfortunately, our brain is the target of a negative media barrage that can leave it spinning out of control. And there are other ways we abuse our brain, often without realizing the impact of our choices. We can end up making poor decisions, reacting improperly to life events, and damaging relationships. We can become moody and miserable. A gloomy mental state will negatively affect our physical and spiritual health as well.

But it doesn’t need to be this way! Here are some simple things we can do at almost any time to boost our mood and our thinking ability, which will help our body and spirit too:

Exercise!

Research has shown that regular exercise increases blood flow to the brain, enhancing its abilities. Outdoor exercise has the added benefit of sunlight and fresh air, both of which are beneficial to brain function. (By the way, right after exercise, your body produces a special chemical that makes it easier to learn. Good time to study!)

Get plenty of sleep.

A tired, sleep-deprived brain functions very much as if it were intoxicated—resulting in poor judgment, reduced willpower, foggy thinking, and impaired motor skills; learning and memory are also negatively affected.

Eat healthy, whole foods.

Nutrition plays a vital role in brain function.

Drink enough water.

Science has shown that even mild dehydration can lower your cognitive function.

Relax.

Take a quiet stroll out in nature, enjoy some soft music, or soak away your cares in a warm bath. Anything you can do to lower your stress will help your brain work better.

Avoid chemical stimulants.

Instead, stimulate your brain by working crosswords or logic puzzles, playing word games, or reading a good book. Memorize Bible verses. Take up a new hobby to challenge your brain!

Get your “kindness fix.”

Do nice things for others. Among other benefits, helping others releases pleasure-producing hormones in the brain. Spending quality time with friends and family enhances your feeling of well-being—and theirs too!

Seek God.

Talk to Him and tell Him your concerns. Learn to trust in Him and He will give you wisdom and understanding (Proverbs 2:6). Guard your senses. Don’t let anything into your brain that will come between you and God. Follow the Bible’sadvice on what we should think about. Here is one of the most direct Scriptures regarding our thoughts: “Whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things” (Philippians 4:8 NKJV).

With some extra attention and nurturing, your brain can work in a more efficient and positive manner, boosting your happiness to a higher level than you might have thought possible!