Wake Up Your Brain: Fun Moves to Think Faster & Remember More

Ever feel like your brain’s stuck in slow motion? Like you just can’t focus no matter how hard you try? I used to feel that way too – until I discovered these weird little exercises that actually work.

Let me show you what I do when my brain needs a kickstart. No fancy equipment needed, just your body and a few minutes.

The Magic of Crossing Over

Here’s a crazy simple trick that helps me before big meetings or when I’m studying:

• Stand up (seriously, don’t do this sitting down)
• Touch your right elbow to your left knee
• Now switch – left elbow to right knee
• Keep going like you’re marching in place

Why this works: It’s like hitting the “sync” button between both sides of your brain. I do this for about 30 seconds when I need to focus fast.

Hand Jive for a Quick Brain Boost

When my hands feel stiff from typing all day, I do this:

• Shake out your hands like you just washed them
• Make circles with both wrists – 10 times each way
• Now the fun part – try circling one hand fast while the other goes slow
• Bonus level: Go opposite directions!

Pro tip: If you mess up (I still do), laugh it off. The trying is what helps your brain.

The Energy Grab (My Secret Weapon)

This one looks silly but works wonders:

• Stretch your arms out like a zombie
• Make big scooping circles toward your body
• Now here’s the challenge – one arm scoops in while the other pushes out
• Don’t forget to breathe! (I always hold my breath at first)

I do this when I’m feeling scattered. After about 20 seconds, my thoughts feel clearer.

Juggling – Not Just for Circus Folks

I taught myself to juggle using rolled-up socks (they don’t roll away when you drop them). Here’s how you can too:

• Start with one sock – toss it gently from hand to hand
• Add a second sock – toss when the first one reaches its peak
• Practice over your bed so you’re not constantly bending down

Fun fact: Research shows juggling actually grows new brain connections. Plus, it’s a great party trick!

When to Use These Tricks

• Morning fog? Cross crawls while waiting for coffee
• Afternoon slump? Hand exercises at your desk
• Pre-meeting jitters? Energy circles in the bathroom stall
• TV time? Practice juggling during commercials

Why This Works

Our brains love novelty. When we do unusual movements, we wake up sleepy neural pathways. It’s like giving your brain a gentle shake to say “Hey, pay attention!”

The best part? You’ll feel the difference fast. I noticed changes in my focus within days of trying these.

Your Turn

Pick one exercise to try today. Do it for just 30 seconds. Notice how you feel afterward. Your brain will thank you!

Remember: There’s no perfect way to do these. The mess-ups are where the magic happens. Now go wake up that amazing brain of yours!