What is Memory?
Memory is our ability to encode, store, retain and
subsequently recall information and past experiences
in the human brain. Memory makes us. If we couldn't
recall the who's, what's, where's, and when's of our
everyday lives, we'd never be able to manage. We
mull over ideas in the present with our short-term (or
working) memory, while we store past events and
learned meanings in our long-term (episodic or
semantic) memory.
Hemispheres Of Brain
Each hemisphere of the brain functions like two
different personalities with their own way of processing
information. The left brain thinks methodically and likes
to organize and categorize information from the
environment. It connects new information with old,
making sense of our world.
This contrasts with the right brain which "thinks"
holistically in pictures. The right learns kinesthetically
through the body and functions with the present. It's
the right brain that's responsible in counseling for
bringing in our awareness to the present.
Tone of voice
Facial expression
Gestures
Posture
Intensity of response
Autobiographical Memory (remembering your
Birthday, significant events)
Map of the body (only on this side)
Stress Management
Memorizing Techniques
1. Organize - List facts in alphabetical or chronological
order. Get a general idea of the textbook material, note
the simple to complex and general to specific. Logical
facts are easier to remember.
2. Make It Meaningful - Look for connections in what you
are studying. For example, packing a parachute by itself
can be boring, however, the excitement of jumping out of
a plane gives a whole new meaning to this process.
Focusing on the "Big Picture" helps provide meaning to the
learning process and stimulates us to remember.
3. Create Associations - Associate something new with
something you already know. This creates a building
process in your memory bank. If you already know a Bill
Smith think of the Bill you know and associate him with the
new Bill Smith.
17. Remember Something Else - When you are stuck and cant
remember, think of something related to the information. For
example if you cannot remember a name, think about what the
person did, what period they lived or who they associated with.
Write down what you do know and soon it will trigger facts that you
are trying to recall. This technique really works!
18. Note When You Dont Remember - If you tried some memory
techniques that do not seem to work, its all-right. Try an experiment
with other techniques and use what is best for you and not what
works for a classmate. Be a reporter, get the facts, find out what
works and what doesnt. Congratulate and reward yourself when
you do remember.
19. Use It Before You Loose It - Information stored in the long-term
memory may become difficult to recall if you dont use it. Simply
read it, write it, speak about it and/or apply it. This is especially
effective when you have to recall formulas or facts from a previous
course. The 101 course information may be used in a 102 course.
Therefore, retain your notes, the old text, and keep the information
fresh with a review.
Enhancement Of Memory
Learn/Do Something New
The brain can absorb new data, make new
connections, and acquire new skills, which helps to
enhance memory. To take on new things you need to
believe that you can deal with the specific activity or
problem and that you will have reasonable success.
Social Interaction and Support
Humans require positive meaningful interactions with
other humans. Lack of stimulation from these types of
interactions can lead to depression and cause
memory problems. Unfortunately not all human
interactions are of this nature. In addition to your
routine interactions seek out those with whom you can
have positive and meaningful interactions.
Nutrition
Eating a well balanced diet is essential for healthy
aging. Within a well balanced diet that includes fruits,
vegetables, bread and cereal, the vitamins that
support our memory (folic acid, B12, and thiamin) will
be available.
Breathing & Relaxation
Breathing is good, it is essential to life. We can use
breathing to calm ourselves. Focusing on your
breathing can help to reduce tension and
nervousness, which can inhibit our ability to pay
attention and can interfere with memory.
Water
Water is an essential element for humans to exist, it
also helps to promote memory. Not enough water
can lead to dehydration, which can cause confusion
and problems with memory.
Physical Exercise
The mind-body connection is real. Physical exercise
can promote mental alertness and healthy aging.
Exercise comes in many different forms. Finding what is
best for you and fits with your lifestyle is critical to
making it part of routine activities. The keys to physical
exercise is that it must be safe for you, be something
that you enjoy doing, and you must do it regularly
several times a week. Before beginning any exercise
program you should consult your health care provider.
Rest /Sleep
Both rest and sleep are very important for the body as well
as the brain. During sleep the brain has a decrease in
sensory input which the brain to sort though experiences
and activities and store memory
Some Other Tips:
Take a look at you habits, see if there are any that do
not enhance your memory. If there are, make a plan to
change them. Consider developing new habits that can
support your memory, such as paying attention, making
lists, taking notes, organizing your environment, and/or
associating facts to images.
Identify and acknowledge for yourself why you want to
enhance your memory
Know what it is that is motivating you to do this, and how
this will sustain your motivation