How a Neuroscientist Keeps Their Brain Young: Real Habits That Actually Nourish Your Mind

Photo by Robina Weermeijer on Unsplash

We all want sharper thinking, clearer memory, and a zest for life at any age. But with endless productivity “hacks,” “gamified” routines, and wellness trends swirling around us, neuroscientist Rachel Barr offers a radical proposal: stop optimizing, and start actually caring for your brain as a living, human organ.

Dr. Barr rejects the “hyper-productivity” trap and instead reveals the science-backed habits that actually promote brain health — habits rooted in joy, movement, creativity, and rest.

1. Move for Fun, Not Just Fitness

Movement, Barr reminds us, is core to brain evolution. Physical activity literally wakes up your brain: triggering the release of BDNF, a “neural fertilizer” vital for new connections and neuroplasticity. This doesn’t have to mean gym time — it might look like climbing a tree, wrestling playfully, or rolling down a hill.
Lesson: Rediscover childlike motion and find pleasure in movement; your brain will thank you.

2. Create — Even Badly!

You don’t need to be a professional artist to enjoy deep creative nourishment. Barr writes bad poetry and strums a few chords, singing along with made-up words.
Why? Because…