The 6 key habits for having energy, according to a Harvard neuroscientist

keep up with energetic and healthy over time It is one of the main goals that people pursue. In this sense, physical health is closely related to mental and brain health, and a neuroscientist of the Harvard University who has been studying for years and provides 6 tips achieve the precious balance.

Christopher Palmerpsychiatrist and neuroscience researcher, has spent decades examining the connections between these three pillars of human health.

Palmer, who is also a professor of psychiatry at Harvard Medical School, shared you are habits which he learned in his own experience, and thanks to which he kept so much inside physical and mental fitness. If the research was published in the US media CNBC.

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1. Limit carbohydrate-rich foods​

Palmer’s first piece of advice is related to food. It is not recommended to exceed the intake of foods rich in carbohydrates.

“Diet plays a role in obesity, diabetes and heart health, but most people don’t realize that it has too profound effects on the brain“, specific.

The pro, who suffered from metabolic syndrome, was able to reverse it with a low-carb diet.

“Generally, I eat eggs for breakfast. all day like vegetables, fruit and a good amount of meat, fish and poultry. This has helped me maintain a healthy weight and keep my blood sugar down,” she explains firsthand.

2. Exercise

play sport it is also essential to stay with more energy.

“I never stop training for more than two days”claims, and also points out its mental health benefits.

In your case, the optimal workout you do is “45 minutes, three to five times a week”. In addition to stretching and other basic exercises, lift weights, run, cycle, swim and brisk walk, spread the word 20 minutes.

3. Get at least 8 hours of sleep

Sleep is another fundamental aspect and underlines its importance do not sleep less than 7 hours each nightsince “lack of sleep can cause a cognitive decline which could lead to an increased risk of Alzheimer’s disease over time,” he says.

Also, it can affect the mood and contribute to depression.

“When you sleep, the body enters a state of ‘rest and repair.’ The brain undergoes many changes in neurons that play a role in learning and memory consolidation. Without sleep, cells can fall into a state of disrepair and start malfunctioning“says the neuroscientist.

It also practices the routine of “go to bed early, get up early”as it helps you stay sharper and more focused throughout the day.

4. Don’t drink alcohol

Alcohol is the fourth bad habit to avoid, according to the Harvard expert. “I never drink alcohol. I drank regularly and sometimes had a glass of wine in the evening to relax,” he revealed.

However, everything changed when in June 2020, in the midst of the pandemic, he decided to leave him for a month: «Within a few weeks, I have noticed improvements in sleep and productivityso I decided to give up drinking completely,” he said honestly and without a hint of regret.

5. Therapy: Emotional health and personal growth

Personal growth and emotional health emerge as points to consider in order to stay with more energy.

And the psychotherapy it might be a good idea, guide help understand who you are and what you want out of lifesomething that will no doubt strengthen one’s sense of personal purpose.

For example, Palmer praises the benefits of psychotherapy that focuses on empathy, relationships, social skills, or improving cognitive abilities. “It can strengthen brain circuits that have been underdeveloped,” she notes in the medium.

6. Clear goals in life

Finally, the sixth recommendation of this expert is “never lose your purpose in life”.

“Humans are driven to have a purpose. I think that’s the way it is programmed into our brain. When people lack purpose, it can induce a chronic stress response and lead to poor cognitive function.”

Palmer determines that it “is multifaceted” in that it involves relationships with other people and with himself.

And to conclude, he reflects: “We should all aspire to have at least one role in society that allows us to contribute and feel appreciated.”