HOW TO BOOST YOUR BRAIN POWER           

Do you sometimes feel as if your brain is on "empty?"  Here's how to keep it in shape so you can pump up your problem-solving abilities, fight forgetfulness and think more clearly and creatively:

Practice mentally.  Studies of athletes indicate that imagining a tennis serve or ski run between competitions can boost performance.  Possible reason:  Mental rehearsals use most of the brain connections switched on during the real thing, so they help build mental muscle.

Capture creative peaks.  Experts believe the brain to be in a highly creative state just before going to sleep and right after waking up.  Action: Use these time to think about solutions to problems and jot down any ideas that come to you.

Focus your attention.  To help remember "Where": If you tend to misplace your car keys, for example, say to yourself, "I'm placing the keys on the shelf by the hallway mirror." To help remember "when": Note the weather, the day's headline news or what you're wearing at the time of performing a task.

Use it or lose it.  Research suggests that as you age, you can reverse a decline in thinking abilities by becoming more mentally active.  Smart moves:  Learn a new language, study a new subject, play games like checkers and do crosswords and other puzzle

Keep fit.  Evidence shows that people n their 70s and 80s who stay healthy can expand their brain power - and easily match the mental abilities of a 30-year old.  Helpful:  Keep physically active, manage stress and maintain a positive attitude.

More mental muscle builders:  Read more. . .eat foods rich in brain-boosting beta-carotene ( like apricots, carrots, papayas, and sweet potatoes). . . use rhymes and acronyms to help remember facts and names.