A few minutes of exercise every day is enough to strengthen the brain.

Yeditepe University Neuroscience PhD Program Faculty Member Prof. Dr. Arzu Aral gave information about the brain's working system and development.

Prof. Dr. Arzu Aral stated that there is no single way to think, saying, "Just like our muscles, our brains also have different 'ways of thinking,' and it is possible to develop these ways." Aral summarized the ways of thinking under seven headings:

"Critical Thinking: Questioning information and checking its accuracy.

"Analytical Thinking: Breaking problems down into pieces and seeing cause-effect relationships.

"Abstract Thinking: Looking beyond facts, through concepts and ideas.

"Creative Thinking: Creating new solutions by going beyond the usual patterns.

"Concrete Thinking: Focusing on everyday details and practical applications.

"Convergent Thinking: Choosing the most appropriate solution from among different options.

"Divergent Thinking: Generating as many ideas as possible without setting limits."

Prof. Dr. Aral stated that everyone uses these ways of thinking, and that we are stronger in some areas and less so in others. He said, "However, this is not an unchangeable fate. One of our brain's most powerful characteristics is neuroplasticity, the capacity to reshape itself through learning and experience. Someone who thinks they are uncreative can develop their imagination through regular idea generation exercises. Someone who struggles with decision-making can improve their decision-making skills by making pros and cons lists for small choices. The differences we encounter in this regard stem from our 'tendencies, environmental factors, and experiences.'"

'BRAIN AND IMMUNE SYSTEM: WORKING TOGETHER FOR OUR HEALTH'

Prof. Dr. Arzu Aral, pointing out that there is a strong and reciprocal relationship between our brain and immune system, continued:

Stress, insomnia, and a busy work schedule affect not only our mental performance but also our immune system. Regular sleep, a balanced diet, and stress management help keep both our brain and immune system strong. While intense stress affects our brain's decision-making processes, it can also suppress our immune system. Regular sleep and breathing exercises are critical for both our mental and physical health.

Arzu Aral, noting that the question "I was born like this, can I change?" is frequently asked among the public, continued as follows:

The key is to recognize which thinking styles we use more and which we need to develop. In short, talent is important, but the real difference comes with regular practice. What you need to get your brain to the gym is simple: a little exercise every day. You don't need expensive classes or special equipment to strengthen your brain. You can train your thinking patterns by dedicating a few minutes each day. These exercises can increase your mental practice; just as a regular exerciser strengthens their muscles, you can also exercise your brain from different angles.

Prof. Dr. Arzu Aral listed the things that can be done to strengthen our brains as follows:

Critical thinking: Question a social media post to see if it is true or false.

Analytical thinking: Write down three possible solutions to a daily problem and evaluate their pros and cons.

"Abstract thinking: Imagine or narrate an event from a different perspective.

"Creative thinking: Imagine 5 different ways to use an ordinary object today.

"Concrete thinking: Create a daily to-do list. At the end of the day, mark off what you accomplished and reward yourself.

"Convergent thinking: Ask your friend, compare different ideas to make the best decision.

"Divergent thinking: Imagine the object in your hand in 3 different ways: funny, strange, or rational.

Nutrition and mental performance: Omega-3, antioxidants, and fiber-rich foods support brain function and the immune system.

"Information management: Unnecessary information can be distracting; the important thing is to select and understand the information you want to learn.

"Guiding perception: You can optimize learning by focusing your attention on important information; for example, turning off phone notifications while studying is effective.

Mindfulness and breathing exercises: Small meditations or breathing techniques reduce stress and support brain and immune health.