Memory Champion Nelson Dellis on Training Your Brain to Do the Impossible with Lewis Howes

Combined Fitness

Nelson Dellis, a four-time USA Memory Champion, emphasizes the importance of combining mental and physical fitness for overall well-being. He believes that challenging the brain with new skills, like learning a language or playing an instrument, is crucial for mental growth. Dellis shares his personal motivation, stating, "I want to inspire people to think about using their memories and that you can have a good memory and that mental fitness is a thing and it shouldn't be overlooked" 1. He also integrates memory exercises into his physical activities, such as during his mountaineering expeditions, to keep his mind sharp and engaged 1.

   

Brain Training

Dellis discusses techniques for enhancing brain capabilities, highlighting the use of memory palaces as a powerful tool. By associating information with familiar spatial locations, individuals can significantly improve their memory retention. He explains, "Once you kind of realize how to approach memory, use some association and store it in a spatial location that, you know, well, it's like, sets our brains on fire" 2. Dellis encourages daily practice of these techniques, suggesting that consistent mental exercises can lead to remarkable improvements in memory 3.