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The brain is the most important organ in the body – it controls thinking, memory, coordination, emotions and decision-making. Yet its age often does not correspond to our actual age. Some people have a brain at 40 that is as flexible and fast as someone in their twenties, while others show the first signs of slowing already in their thirties.
In Japan, a simple at-home test was developed that can roughly show how „young“ or „worn“ your brain is. It’s not a medical diagnosis, but a playful and surprisingly informative way to quickly check the condition of your nervous system, coordination and reaction abilities.
This article will show you the exact procedure of the test, explain its meaning and add practical tips on how to rejuvenate the brain and keep it in great condition long-term.
How does the traditional Japanese brain test work?
The test is based on two simple tasks: quickly switching between the right and left hemispheres and coordinating the hands. The principle is based on how quickly the brain can process an instruction, reorient itself and execute a new movement.
Test procedure:
- Extend your left hand forward. Raise your thumb up, curl the other fingers into a fist.
- Extend your right hand forward. Make a „pointing finger“ – raise your index finger, keep the other fingers in a fist.
- Now quickly swap the hands. Left hand → index finger, right hand → thumb up.
- Repeat several times in a row and try to perform a smooth movement without hesitation.
How to evaluate the result?
⭐ Very young brain
You switch hands smoothly, without mistakes, you don’t need to think. Corresponds to excellent brain condition (often age 20–30 years).
⭐ Average brain
You manage the switching, but occasionally get confused or slow down. Common brain state around 35–50 years.
⭐ Slowed brain
You have trouble switching, your hands do something else or you need a long time to understand the movement. Corresponds to neurological age 60+ years.
The test is indicative, but it can effectively detect slowing of coordination and mental flexibility – the first signs of brain aging.
Why does this test work?
It checks several key brain functions at once:
- coordination of both hands,
- speed of reactions,
- work of the brain hemispheres,
- cognitive flexibility,
- short-term attention.
These are precisely the areas that often age first – long before memory problems.
What can worsen the „age“ of the brain?
- long-term stress,
- working at a computer without breaks,
- lack of sleep,
- little physical activity,
- inappropriate diet,
- minimum mental challenges.
How to rejuvenate the brain? Scientifically supported methods
1. Regular exercise
Improves blood flow, oxygenation and supports the growth of neurons. Ideal are walking, swimming, dancing, yoga or cycling.
2. Brain-supporting diet
- fish with omega-3,
- nuts and seeds,
- blueberries and fruit,
- leafy greens,
- olive oil.
3. Brain exercises
Sudoku, memory games, language learning, reading, musical instruments.
4. Quality sleep
During sleep the brain regenerates and removes toxins.
5. Enough fluids
The brain is largely made of water – dehydration slows thinking.
What to do if the test went poorly?
One failure means nothing. However, if the test repeatedly shows slowing, it may be a signal of fatigue, stress, lack of movement or overload of the nervous system.
The important thing is to start with small changes – the brain can be trained at any age.
Conclusion
The Japanese test is a quick and surprisingly accurate indicator of how flexibly your brain works. It helps reveal levels of coordination, reaction speed and cognitive flexibility. Whatever the test result, know that the brain can be deliberately strengthened and its aging slowed.
Regular exercise, quality sleep, good diet and mental activity can significantly improve the biological age of the brain.
