Mental fitness should be given attention just like physical fitness. Follow these tips to have a sharper mind for years to come.

• Do visualization
Imagery is the process of picturing a tranquil scene or location. This can reduce tension in both your body and your mind by challenging neurons in the less-dominant area of your brain and increase activity there.

• Read more
Even as you are reading this sentence, your brain is processing each word, recalling the meaning instantly. Reading can stir up your imagination and awaken so many different parts of the brain. There is a whole lot of interesting materials to choose from.

• Stop multitasking
Focus on one task at a time – this will improve your concentration and help you to be more productive.

• Be positive with yourself
Make a list of your good qualities. Set goals for what you want to improve and start small to avoid becoming overwhelmed.

• Try something different
Try new foods, try new ways to do routine tasks, travel to new places, take a new way to work or to the grocery. Doing new things in new ways appears to help retain brain cells and connections. It may even produce new brain cells.

• Play games
Games are a great way to build up your brain muscle. Consider crossword puzzles, board games, Sudoku, fast-paced action video games or any other game that uses logic, reasoning or trivia.

Schedule a mental fitness break into your calendar right next to your workout schedule. Your mind and your health are worth it.