Brain Boosters
This number puzzle improves logic and memory
Sudoku
Name 3 benefits of gardening in the spring
Stimulates the senses, boosts mood, is a good form of exercise, promotes social connection, decreases risk of dementia and supports heart health
A diet low in _______ can help keep blood pressure low and protect against hypertension, heart disease and stroke.
Sodium
Blooming, birth, return from migration
What professional sport begins its season in April in the US and Canada?
Baseball
True or False: Repetition can strengthen long-term memory
True
The scent of this flowering plant is known to reduce stress
Lavender
Can be inhaled through an oil diffuser, applied topically, mixed with Epsom salts in a bath or even put a few drops on a cotton ball next to your desk or bed
True or False: Snoring can disrupt your sleep but is a normal part of sleeping that affects almost everyone
False,
snoring CAN be normal but if it is to the extent that it is disrupting sleep, it is recommended to speak to your doctor, it could be a sign of a sleep disorder such as sleep apnea
True or False: Social health can be just as important to maintain as physical and mental health
True
Social connection can lead to longer life, better health, and well-being, it goes hand in hand with maintaining good mental and physical health.
Which butterfly, often seen in spring, migrates from Mexico to the United States each year?
Monarch Butterfly
Which activity engages the mind in a way that can help prevent memory loss?
Learning a new language or learning to play a musical instrument
Both
True or False: Indoor plants can negatively affect air quality and introduce pests in your home, it is better to keep them outdoors
False: Indoor plants can improve air quality and there are benefits to both indoor and outdoor planting
* Always check if plants are safe for indoors, toxic to animals, etc.
What do beans, broccoli, artichokes, raspberries, avocados, brussels sprouts, whole wheat pasta, and oatmeal all have in common?
Contain high levels of fiber, which help accelerate digestion
Nature in the springtime teaches us that setbacks are temporary and new growth is ________
Possible/Inevitable
What flowery festival occurs in Washington, D.C. every April?
Cherry Blossom Festival
Physical activity raises blood flow to the whole body, including the ________, which is why it can keep your memory sharp.
Brain
Recommended to get at least 150 minutes a week of moderate aerobic activity (could be small walks, gentle stretching, workout classes)
Herbs such as mint and rosemary can boost both flavor and ______
Mood/wellness through aromatherapy or tea
*Mint can also be used to treat seasonal allergies!
True or False: If you don't believe a prescribed medication is benefitting you, it is recommended that you stop taking it
False,
If you have questions or concerns regarding a medication, always ask your doctor before discontinuing use
*Does not apply to emergency situations such as an allergic reaction, in this case call 911 or go to hospital
Name at least one way you can improve your social health and connectedness this year
Surround yourself with good people, practice self-care, engage in hobbies and groups, stick to a healthy routine, continue working on better communication.
What are April’s two zodiac signs?
Aries and Taurus
Name one simple way to challenge your brain every morning
Word games, puzzles or journaling
Name a tree that produces nutritious fruit in spring
Apple, cherry, pear, peaches, plums, nectarines
True or False: Taking breaks disrupts your activity or routine and can lead to cognitive issues
False,
Taking breaks during long activities helps prevent fatigue and strain and does not negatively affect your cognition, listen to your body and mind
Name at least 1 benefit of rain
DOUBLE POINTS: if you name 3
Improves air quality, can be therapeutic to listen to (white noise), nourishes plants and the environment, sustains food production, replenishes water sources, smell of rain is calming
*Contrary to popular belief, cold or rainy weather doesn’t cause a cold!
How many colors are in a rainbow?
DOUBLE POINTS if you can name them all
7 - red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo and violet