Harvard neuroscientist's bizarre brain hacks might be your key to peak mental health
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Chew Gum—But Not Just Any Kind
Chewing gum can enhance brain activity by boosting blood flow to critical areas such as the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex—regions associated with learning, focus, and memory. (Image: iStock)
Walk Backward to Move Forward
Walking backwards (Image: iStock)
Hum Like Your Brain Depends on It
Breath control while humming also activates neural circuits linked to attention and emotional regulation. (Image: iStock)
Brains, Meet Your New Routine
In a world where brain health advice often revolves around leafy greens, crossword puzzles, and hitting the gym, Harvard-trained neuroscientist Kevin Woods is offering something a little more… unconventional. According to Woods, who serves as Director of Science at Brain.fm—a music platform designed to enhance brainwave activity—there are three offbeat yet powerful habits you can incorporate to boost your cognitive performance. And no, none of them involve Sudoku.Woods tells The New York Post that chewing gum can enhance brain activity by boosting blood flow to critical areas such as the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex—regions associated with learning, focus, and memory. The repetitive motion of chewing is believed to increase oxygen and glucose supply to these parts of the brain, which in turn improves alertness and reduces stress. But it's not just about grabbing any gum off the shelf. Woods advises opting for one with lasting flavor and a stable structure.Sugar-free gums are a safer bet for your teeth, but if you're really up for a challenge, one recent study found chewing on hard objects like wooden pencils could elevate levels of glutathione, a key antioxidant in brain health. Though, for obvious dental and digestive reasons, you might want to skip the pencils and leave that to the beavers.Known as retro walking, taking a stroll in reverse might just rewire your brain. Woods explains that walking backwards increases cognitive control, memory recall, and mental focus by engaging neural pathways that aren't activated during forward walking. Studies cited in the Post report gains in balance, coordination, and even calorie burn. The trick, Woods says, is to start slowly and safely—flat paths only, head up, core engaged, and eyes (or at least awareness) on your surroundings. It may look strange, but your brain won't care.Humming isn't just soothing—it's neuroscience. Woods highlights research showing that humming activates the vagus nerve, a key player in managing mood and relaxation. The vibration also boosts nitric oxide production in the nasal cavity, enhancing blood flow and possibly lifting your spirits. Choir singers, in particular, have been found to enjoy better heart rate variability and improved cognitive performance. Breath control while humming also activates neural circuits linked to attention and emotional regulation. The best part? You can hum anytime, anywhere—no fancy equipment required.While the usual health prescriptions like nutritious food, exercise, and sleep remain vital, Woods emphasizes that integrating these quirky habits can help maintain cognitive sharpness in a uniquely effective way. 'Find a consistent routine that works for you,' he advises. Whether it's chewing gum during deep work, retro-walking around the park, or humming your stress away, these hacks are proof that brain care doesn't always have to be conventional. Sometimes, a little weird goes a long way.
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