The importance of brain power can never be over-emphasized. A quick search on internet lists out hundreds of websites that offer tips to improve the functioning of the brain. From tips to become effective thinkers to storing more in the memory bank, a reader can get all and much more.

So, when we sat down to provide a list of natural ways to enhance brain power, we have tried to do so while staying away from the tips provided by modern medicine. Instead, we provide you with a list of eleven ways suggested in Ayurveda, the ancient Indian medical science.

These do not relate to taking up specific exercises or workouts but simply controlling certain food and lifestyle habits and changing some simple dishes on the menu. Read on to find out what you can do at home to enhance your brain power:

1) Practice relaxation techniques to manage stress levels. Stress impacts mental performance. So, follow the rhythmic breathing technique of inhaling and then taking twice the time to exhale.

2) Engage your brain is activities and mind games that can constantly keep it working well. Regular reading and games like chess are known to improve mental alertness.

3) Include more natural sources of healthy proteins in your diet. Legumes, lentils and beans will serve the purpose.

4) Have plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables. These are easy to digest and Ayurveda suggests that the lower effort the body takes to digest and assimilate food, the better the brain will function.

5) Fats are essential for your body. So it is not a healthy way to cut fat entirely from your diet. Consume fats in moderation, instead.

6) Avoid canned and refined foods and try to eat foods as close to their natural state as possible. Ayurveda believes that fresh food stuffs have a natural vitality and intelligence.

7) Antioxidant foods are very important for the smooth functioning of the brain and this vital organ is especially susceptible to oxidation stress damage by free radicals.

8) The essential oils of basil, rosemary, peppermint and lemon to help ward off mental fatigue and enhance mental clarity and alertness.

9) Have enough sleep. Good quality sleep is essential for peak mental performance. Avoid watching television or reading books prior to falling asleep.

10) Include black pepper in your diet. Black pepper can help the free flow of oxygen to the brain and help you stay focused and calm.

11) Take short periods of rest after periods of intense mental activity. You can also take a break by moving from task to something totally unconnected to let the mind take a break.