Mentally Moving UP in 2026
January’s Mind Spotlight
J. DIEKER
As the year starts, many focus on strengthening their bodies and getting back to being healthy. While this is certainly good, it is also essential to strengthen our minds! Here are some ways to focus on bettering your brain in 2026:
Reading strengthens many parts of our brains! It can help increase our concentration, creativity, and imagination. It has been shown to even reduce anxiety and the rate at which your brain ages. Researchers find that these results are stronger when reading hardcopy books instead of on screens.
Learning a new skill can help strengthen and build neural pathways! This helps to keep your brain thriving.
Take some time to do a puzzle! Puzzles require multiple parts of our brain to work together, this is called bilateral integration. Completing a puzzle uses “…visual processing, problem-solving, fine motor coordination, and memory retrieval—all of which contribute to our overall cognitive health.” (citation).
According to the CDC, exercise “...can also improve signs of brain health, and short bursts of physical activity can boost brain functions such as memory and thinking skills. What’s more, regular physical activity can reduce your risk of cognitive decline and dementia.” (2025). It’s a great way to reduce stress and burn off excess energy, allowing you to sleep better. With this in mind, exercise can be a good way to take care of yourself holistically.
While exercise is good for our bodies and can have health benefits for our brains, it is important to take time this year to intentionally strengthen your mind. Make some time in 2026 to start a good book or complete a challenging puzzle! We’re looking forward to hearing how you grow this coming year!
References:
Lindberg, S. (2025, May 21). 13 brain exercises to help keep you Mentally sharp. Healthline. Retrieved January 1, 2026, from https://www.healthline.com/health/mental-health/brain-exercises#new-skill%C2%A0
Lloyd, S. (2023, August 10). Memory expert reveals why reading books can improve your brain health. Newsweek. https://www.newsweek.com/why-reading-book-healthy-brain-concentration-creativity-aging-1815117
McIntosh, O. (2025, December 24). Why jigsaw puzzles are good for your brain and mood, experts explain. MSN. Retrieved January 1, 2026, from https://www.msn.com/en-us/hobbies-and-interests/general/why-jigsaw-puzzles-are-good-for-your-brain-and-mood-experts-explain/ar-AA1SYvuW
Physical activity boosts brain health. (2025, August 13). Physical Activity. Retrieved January 1, 2026, from https://www.cdc.gov/physical-activity/features/boost-brain-health.html
