Sleep for longer than six hours each night. A study conducted at the University of California, Berkeley identified stage two of non-REM sleep as being a critical component in the brain's ability to learn. During this stage of sleep, it is theorized that the brain transfers freshly learned material from the space-restricted hippocampus to the pre-frontal cortex, thereby clearing space in the hippocampus for new input. These networking brain waves, also known as "sleep spindles," occur more in the second half of the period in which we sleep. The fewer hours you sleep each night, the less time there is for this data transfer to take place and the less your brain will be able to learn.
Nourish your brain properly for optimal cognitive performance. Neurotransmitters are insulated and made more efficient by myelin, which is comprised of fat and protein. Include fish, nuts and seeds in your diet as sources of essential fatty acids. Consume essential amino acids such as beans, seeds, nuts, leafy greens and whole grains for the building of myelin protein. Fuel your brain with the glucose derived from complex carbohydrates such as yams, corn and squash. Complete your diet with vitamins and minerals, most of which can be found in fresh fruits and vegetables. If you are vegan or vegetarian, consult your doctor about taking a B12 supplement. Myelin formation requires B12, a water soluble vitamin that is not readily found in the plant kingdom.
Stay physically fit. A study referenced in the January 20, 2010 Physorg.com article "Aerobic Exercise Grows Brain Cells" revealed that aerobic exercise such as running can stimulate neurogenisis, or new brain cell growth, particularly in the memory region of the brain. Synaptic plasticity, an important factor in learning and memory, is also increased with physical exercise.
Exercise your brain. Challenge yourself on a daily basis. Read, write, do puzzles or learn a new word. Any new skill that you learn creates new neurological connections and helps to keep your mind active. Try taking a different way home from work, or using your weak hand to write with or control your computer mouse. If something feels awkward and unfamiliar, it means your brain is learning something new and your cognition is being sharpened.