This one might be harder to implement that you think. Most of us develop some sort of pattern—daily habits, or a rhythm—in our lives that’s hard to break. Such things can be very good for you, of course; making healthy meals, exercise, bedtimes and other rituals a part of your day is definitely optimal for a healthy body and mind. But too many mundane, same old, same old activities can not only cause you to get bored—they can also cause some health problems on their own.

Science says that adding a bit of variety or novelty to your routine can help prevent Alzheimer’s. Whether you do something new—such as learn something new, take up a class, or attend a lecture or play—or engage your brain with a novel activity such as a game or a book, you’re helping your brain stay active.

Each of these activities helps your brain cells build brand new connections, which creates brain cell reserves (backup files!). They also have the potential of creating new brain cells entirely.

So if you want to help keep your brain healthy and active—and add a little spice to your life overall—try doing something novel or new every day. It’s pretty hard to break up routine, but if you simply schedule “Brain Time” or something to that effect in, you should be able to make it work.

Need ideas? Try doing something new or novel every day for a month, such as:

• A new workout
• Start a family or friends game night
• Brush your teeth with your opposite hand
• Do a crossword or search-a-word puzzle
• Make a list of books you’ve been meaning to read; buy or check one out from the library and read it
• Sign up for a class at the local community college on something interesting—art? Music? Cooking?
• Take a free online class; there are hundreds available
• Go bowling, skating, or play miniature golf
• Start a journal
• Go to a play, concert, lecture or musical
• Write a novel for National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo)
• Take up a hobby, such as building models or collecting something
• Watch an educational program (a regular sitcom or TV drama doesn’t count; you have to use something that’s helping you learn something new)
• Buy some art supplies and play with them
• Visit a museum, zoo, planetarium or other local attraction
• Plan a vacation
• Go to the park or bounce center and act like a kid