Are You Forgetting More Than Just Keys?
Let’s be honest, this goes way beyond losing your keys or wondering where you put your phone.
Some of the women I coach tell me they’ve blended a spoon into their smoothie more than once. Others have burned pots on the stove while checking emails or walked into a room five times in one day, only to stand there blankly.
Maybe that’s you, too.
You laugh it off, right? “I’m just tired.” “It’s probably menopause.” “It’s because I’ve got too much on my plate.”
And sure, that might be part of it but it’s not the whole story.
These “little” moments are actually early whispers from your brain. Whispers that say:
“I’m overloaded.”
“I’m inflamed.”
“I’m trying my best, but I need help.”
You’re not crazy. You’re not losing your mind.
But you do need to pay attention.
Cognitive decline doesn’t happen all at once. It creeps in slowly through forgotten names, misplaced items, or repeated conversations. And when you’re constantly in service to others, your brain is quietly asking, “When will it be my turn?”
So if you’ve accidentally destroyed yet another blender or find yourself double-booking appointments, it’s not just “mom brain” or “overwhelm.” It’s your brain waving a red flag.
But here’s the good news: You can do something about it.
The Memory Rescue approach offers a science-backed path to not just prevent further decline but to actually reclaim mental clarity, emotional stability, and daily confidence.
Why Memory Matters (More Than You Think)
Your memory isn’t just about facts or appointments, it’s your essence. It holds your relationships, the lessons life taught you, and the sense of self you’ve worked hard to build.
Memory connects to:
- How you love
- How you manage your health and money
- Your independence and confidence
And here’s the sobering fact: by the age of 85, 50% of people are diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia. But the good news? You’re not powerless. Prevention begins now, and every small choice counts.
The BRIGHT MINDS Framework: 11 Risk Factors You Can Influence
Dr. Amen developed a simple yet profound acronym: BRIGHT MINDS, representing the 11 major risk factors that impact brain health and memory. The more of these you address, the better your brain functions; emotionally and cognitively.
Let’s break them down and explore simple actions you can take.
B – Blood Flow
Low blood flow is the #1 brain imaging predictor of Alzheimer’s.
Signs: Sedentary lifestyle, high blood pressure, smoking, excessive caffeine.
Rescue tips:
- Move your body daily (walking counts!)
- Limit caffeine after 2 p.m.
- Add beets, gingko, and oregano to meals (natural blood flow boosters).
R – Retirement & Aging
Aging doesn’t have to mean decline, but it does require intention.
Signs: Loneliness, lack of mental stimulation.
Rescue tips:
- Engage in lifelong learning (read, take a course, learn a language).
- Stay socially connected. Even brief meaningful conversations matter.
I – Inflammation
Chronic inflammation is linked to depression, pain, and memory issues.
Signs: Rosacea, joint pain, gut issues.
Rescue tips:
- Ditch processed foods and sugar.
- Add turmeric and omega-3 supplements.
- Floss nightly. Gum health equals brain health!
G – Genetics
Genes are not destiny. They’re a wake-up call.
Rescue tip: Know your family history and use it to motivate prevention, not fear.
H – Head Trauma
Even childhood falls or minor accidents can cause lasting effects.
Rescue tip: If you’ve ever hit your head or had a concussion, consider brain support like hyperbaric oxygen therapy or targeted supplementation.
☣️ T – Toxins
From alcohol to mold, your environment matters.
Signs: Skin issues, frequent illness, fatigue.
Rescue tips:
- Reduce alcohol and beauty products with harmful ingredients.
- Try dry brushing and sauna therapy.
- Check your home for mold if symptoms persist.
M – Mental Health
Anxiety, depression, and trauma deeply impact memory and clarity.
Rescue tip: Seek support: therapy, group healing, or holistic mental health protocols. Your mind deserves care too.
️ I – Immunity & Infections
Autoimmune conditions and chronic infections can cloud the brain.
Rescue tip: Get tested for vitamin D and food sensitivities. Eliminate dairy and reduce gluten and processed foods.
N – Neurohormone Issues
Hormone imbalances (thyroid, estrogen, cortisol) can wreak havoc on memory.
Rescue tip: Get a full hormonal panel and advocate for optimal, not just “normal” ranges. Functional medicine practitioners can help here.
D – Diabesity (Diabetes + Obesity)
Excess weight shrinks the brain, literally.
Rescue tips:
- Eat whole foods: greens, berries, fiber rich omega 3 sources.
- Ditch sugar and refined carbs.
- Aim for a waist-to-height ratio of 0.5 or less.
S – Sleep
Sleep is your brain’s cleanup crew.
Rescue tips:
- Create a wind-down ritual (no screens an hour before bed).
- Get 7–9 hours of high-quality sleep nightly.
- Try magnesium, melatonin, or herbal teas to support rest.
Step-by-Step: How to Begin Your Memory Rescue Journey
1. Take the Quiz
In my Brain Health Breakthrough Coaching Program, there’s an assessment that screens for early signs of memory issues.
Even just noticing these patterns can be a powerful motivator for change.
2. Know Your Health Numbers
You can’t fix what you don’t measure. Get lab work done for:
- Blood pressure
- Fasting glucose and A1C
- Cholesterol (including LDL particle size)
- Homocysteine
- C-reactive protein (inflammation)
- Vitamin D, ferritin, thyroid, and sex hormones
These markers tell the story of your brain’s future and give you power to shift the narrative.
3. Track Your BRIGHT MINDS Risk Factors
Most people have 3–4 of the 11. That’s okay! Start with the low-hanging fruit. If stress or sleep is your main struggle, begin there.
What About Mental Health and Memory?
If you’re in a helping profession, you may be carrying unprocessed trauma (your own and others’). Depression, anxiety, and chronic stress shrink the hippocampus, the brain’s memory center.
But there’s hope.
Natural supports (adaptogens, omega-3s, therapy, breathwork) and consistent lifestyle shifts can change your brain structure and chemistry. Your memory and mood are deeply interconnected and both are reclaimable.
Real Talk: You Don’t Need to Do This Alone
The Brain Health Breakthrough Coaching Program is a phenomenal resource. But maybe you’re feeling overwhelmed, tired, unsure where to start.
Here’s the truth: this journey is about compassion over perfection.
Start small:
- Join the Program and take the assessment.
- Prepare one brain-healthy meal today.
- Swap 10 minutes of scrolling for a calming walk or a nap.
Your brain is waiting for you to practice self care.
Ready to Rescue Your Memory?
The Brain Health Breakthrough Coaching Program isn’t just about preventing Alzheimer’s. It’s about reclaiming your energy, joy, and sense of self, especially if you’ve lost your way in the giving.
You give so much to others. This is your invitation to give back to you.
Want Support?
If you feel like your brain fog, memory issues, or mood challenges are more than you can handle on your own, reach out.
You can also start with this webinar Revitalize Your Brain: A Lifestyle Approach for Women Over 50.
Final Thoughts
This isn’t about waiting for a diagnosis. This is about choosing prevention, healing, and radical self-love starting now.
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