How to Build Physical and Mental Reserves to Age Stronger and Smarter

Many clients of all ages come to me with a common goal, to use hypnotherapy to help them focus on improving their overall well-being. 
This often means we need to look at managing weight, adding regular movement to their routines, improving lifestyle choices, and breaking unhelpful habits. The results they achieve with the help of hypnosis are often really remarkable, and life changing—not just in their appearance, but in confidence and  overall physical health.

But physical fitness alone isn’t enough.

Imagine a brain that stays sharp and resilient, no matter how many years pass by. Cognitive reserve makes this possible, and it's essential for a vibrant and healthy mind. 
Many people don’t realise when it comes to healthy aging, that the lifestyle changes mentioned above can have even more powerful long-term benefits for the brain. 

Cognitive reserve and brain health are critical factors in maintaining mental function. Individuals with higher cognitive reserve may experience a delay in the onset of symptoms of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's by 30 to 40%. This is because their brains can compensate for the damage for a longer period. Cognitive reserve, first recognised nearly 30 years ago, is like the ‘software’ of the brain. 

The great news is we can upgrade this ‘software’ throughout our life. Through mental exercises to improve cognitive reserve. Meanwhile, the “hardware”—our brain’s neural capacity—can be supported through ongoing brain maintenance.

How can we help this maintenance happen?

We now know that new neurons continue to form in the brain, well into older age. This brain plasticity means that what we do each day—whether it’s social engagement, pursuing hobbies, reading or learning new skills—directly impacts brain health. Engagement in stimulating activities and cognitive health go hand-in-hand. When I work with my clients to help them feel more confident in themselves they feel more ready to take on new hobbies and higher levels of social activity, this is linked to better mental performance in later life.
Building physical and also mental reserves also helps to maintain mobility and strength as we age. In the case of loss of muscle mass, known as sarcopenia, we know this contributes significantly to falls, fractures, osteoporosis, and general frailty in older adults. The good news is that preventing muscle loss in aging is possible with regular exercise, especially strength training for older adults, combined with a balanced diet.

In conclusion, cognitive reserve is a powerful concept that highlights the brain's remarkable ability to adapt and thrive despite challenges such as aging or injury. By building and maintaining cognitive reserve through lifelong learning, mental engagement, and healthy lifestyle choices, we can enhance our cognitive function, delay the onset of neurodegenerative symptoms, and improve recovery from brain injuries. 
The good thing is that It’s never too early—or too late—to invest in your future self by focusing on both the body and the mind.