Intelligence

Depending on where you are obtaining your information, the average adult IQ is generally rated at approximately 110.

People with much lower scores tend to function and contribute to society. So would you really want to increase your IQ? Why?

Perhaps you want to achieve good grades, or study at a higher level, for your own satisfaction or for a better chance to gain better employment. Perhaps you simply want to understand the world better, and be able to spend less time learning things that others seem to pick up quicker.

There are some simple things you can try, in order to increase your intelligence. They really are simple, and probably obvious.

1* Eat well. If you are well nourished, your body will be healthy and able to cope with life without zapping energy from your thought processes.

2* Similarly, exercise regularly. If you are lethargic, you won't be able to focus or think clearly. Exercise will provide you with energy.

3* Sleep. An adult should aim for approximately 8 hours of sleep per night. Individuals vary, but you should avoid exhaustion, and over sleeping, as this can lead to lethargy also. A good routine should be sought.

4* Meditation is a good practice to observe. It will help with concentration, as well as giving time to reflect on situations, events and your own behaviours. Reflection can reveal how to "do something better next time", and can show you things that simply don't work.

5* Reduce the time you spend watching television. It has been shown your brain becomes very passive during T.V. watching. When sat in front of the T.V., the characters on the box do all the work for you, but you do not get the chance to rest your brain either. When you think of the brain as a muscle, it needs a workout and rest regime.

6* Yes, exercise your brain. Do crosswords, sudoku and quizzes. Read books and articles that challenge you. Learn a new word every day, or week. Choose a hobby that keeps you active and entertained. Do something different every week. Variety will keep your brain switched on, whereas routine will allow your brain to switch off and let you fly on auto pilot.

It is worth saying that there are different types of intelligence, and different people will have unique skill sets. However, if you look after your body and your brain, you will be able to function at your full potential.