I'm Mike.

And I'm Emma.

Thanks for joining us today.

We've got an exciting topic lined up six habits that can help boost your intelligence.

Yep, we all want to get smarter, right?

And there are actually some simple habits you can practice daily that can make a big difference.

Absolutely.

So if you're ready to level up your brainpower, let's dive in.

Habit number one is reading.

It's no surprise that reading can make you smarter.

But why is it so effective?

Well, reading stimulates the mind, expands your vocabulary, and improves your understanding of different topics.

Whether it's fiction or nonfiction, you're always learning something new.

Yeah, and it's not just about reading books.

You can read articles and blogs and even listen to audiobooks if you're on the go.

Exactly.

The important thing is to engage with material that challenges you.

Try reading topics outside your comfort zone.

If you usually read novels, maybe pick up a science magazine or a book on history.

That's a great tip.

So make it a habit to read at least 20 minutes a day.

You'll be amazed at how much you learn over time.

All right, on to habit number two, learning a new skill.

This one is fantastic because it keeps your brain active and adaptable.

Yes, learning something new can be a real workout for your brain.

It could be anything from picking up a musical instrument, learning to code, or even trying a new language.

Exactly.

When you learn a new skill, you're creating new neural pathways in your brain, which can improve your memory and cognitive abilities.

And don't forget, it's okay to be a beginner at something.

The process of learning is what really matters, not how good you are at the start.

Right.

The goal is to challenge yourself.

So if there's a hobby or skill you've been wanting to try, go for it.

Now, this one might surprise some people, but habit number three is exercising.

Emma, why do you think exercise helps with intelligence?

Great question, Mike.

Physical exercise improves blood flow to the brain, which helps with memory and concentration.

It also releases endorphins, which can improve your mood and reduce stress.

So true.

And it doesn't have to be intense exercise.

Even a daily walk can be beneficial.

Yes, just moving your body regularly can have a big impact.

Plus, if you combine exercise with learning, like listening to a podcast or an audiobook while walking, you're doubling up on your brain-boosting habits.

That's a clever idea.

So next time you hit the gym or go for a run, think of it as a way to not only stay fit, but also to boost your brain power.

Habit number four is practicing mindfulness and meditation.

This is one I personally love, Mike.

Yeah, mindfulness has become really popular lately.

How exactly does it help with intelligence, though?

When you meditate, you're training your mind to focus better.

It helps clear away the mental clutter, making it easier to concentrate on tasks.

Plus, it reduces stress, which can have a negative impact on your cognitive abilities.

I've read that just 10 minutes of meditation a day can make a noticeable difference.

It's about giving your mind a break and allowing it to reset.

Exactly.

It can be as simple as taking a few deep breaths and being present in the moment.

I love that.

It's such a small habit, but can have a big impact on your overall mental clarity.

On to habit number five, engaging in deep conversations.

This one's interesting.

How can talking with others boost our intelligence?

When you have a meaningful conversation, especially about complex topics, you're forced to think critically, articulate your thoughts, and consider different perspectives.

It's like a workout for your brain.

That's a good point.

It's easy to get caught up in small talk, but discussing ideas, debating, and learning from others can really stimulate your mind.

Exactly.

It can be anything from discussing a book you've read to debating a current event.

I agree.

Plus, it's a great way to connect with others on a more intellectual level.

And finally, habit number six, getting enough sleep.

This one might seem obvious, but it's often overlooked.

Yeah, many of us are guilty of staying up late, thinking we can function fine on a few hours of sleep.

But the truth is, our brains need rest to process information and consolidate memories.

Exactly.

When we sleep, our brains go through different cycles that help us process what we've learned throughout the day.

It's like hitting the reset button.

So true.

And it's not just about the quantity of sleep, but also the quality.

Try to stick to a regular sleep schedule and create a bedtime routine that helps you relax.

Right.

Good sleep hygiene can make a huge difference in how alert and focused you feel the next day.

So there you have it, habits that can help boost your intelligence.

Let's quickly recap.

One, read regularly.

Two, learn a new skill.

Three, exercise.

Four, practice mindfulness.

Five, engage in deep conversations.

Six, get enough sleep.

These habits are simple but powerful.

Incorporating even a few of them into your daily routine can make a big difference in your cognitive abilities.

Absolutely.

All right, now let's dive into some really useful vocabulary.

Cognitive, meaning related to mental processes like thinking, learning, and understanding.

Example, reading books regularly can help improve your cognitive skills, making it easier to solve complex problems.

Neural, meaning pertaining to nerves or the nervous system, especially related to the brain's network of neurons.

Example, learning a new language creates new neural pathways, which can enhance your memory and focus.

Stimulate, meaning to encourage or increase activity, interest, or enthusiasm.

Example, engaging in challenging puzzles can stimulate your brain and help improve your problem-solving abilities.

Adaptable, meaning able to adjust to new conditions or changes.

Example, people who practice learning new skills tend to be more adaptable in different situations.

Mindfulness, meaning the practice of being fully present and engaged in the current moment, without distraction or judgment.

Example, mindfulness exercises like meditation can help reduce stress and improve your ability to focus on tasks.

It's not about becoming a genius overnight.

It's about making small changes that add up over time.

That's right.

So why not start today?

Pick one habit and try it out.

You might be surprised at how quickly you notice a change.

And if you're listening and you have any habits that help boost your intelligence, we'd love to hear them.

Share your tips with us in the comments or on our social media.

Thanks for tuning in today.

We hope you found this episode helpful and that you're inspired to take action.

Don't forget to subscribe to the English Dialogue podcast for more episodes like this one.

And if you enjoyed today's discussion, give us a rating and share it with your friends.

See you next time, everyone.

Keep learning and stay curious.

Bye for now.

Bye.