BRAIN AEROBICS

If you want your brain — and your memory — to work better, you have to exercise it. Stretch it in new ways. At least that’s the word from neurobiologists at Duke University who say you need to cross-train your brain to keep it limber enough to remember names, master new skills, and stay creative.

Here’s a sample of things you can do to keep your brain fresh. Call it Brain Aerobics.

When you get ready in the morning (you know the drill — shower, shave, eat breakfast), use your non-dominant hand.

Learn the Braille numbers for some floors in your office building.

When you travel, avoid American-style hotels and eateries. Go local and try what’s new and different.