Read on to learn what science has to say about the different ways you may be able to boost both your crystallized and fluid intelligence.

Staying physically active is one of the best ways to improve brain functioning.

Playing an instrument is a fun and creative way to boost your intelligence. It involves skills like:

• auditory perception
• physical coordination
• memory
• pattern recognition

If you’re an experienced musician, challenge yourself by learning new songs or genres. If you don’t know how to play an instrument, remember that it’s never too late to start. You can find plenty of free how-to videos online to get you started.

Research shows that reading may also help boost your intelligence.

That’s because it requires multiple cognitive functions, including:

• attention
• predicting
• working memory
• long-term storage memory
• abstract reasoning
• comprehension
• visual processing of letters

Continuing your education doesn’t mean you need to get a degree. You can:

• watch TED talks
• attend lectures or workshops
• pick up a new hobby
• learn a new language
• read books on a new subject

If you find it difficult to meet new people or create relationships, you may want to consider the following:

• volunteer in your community
• join a club, gym, or sports team
• take a class
• join a book club
• reconnect with old friends

Remember, intelligence isn’t about knowing more than other people. It’s about stimulating your brain, being able to solve problems, and learning new things.

By staying curious and following the tips outlined above, you may be able to boost your brain health and enhance your intelligence over time.