I bet you thought I was going to do a post on Independence Day, didn’t you? Nope, too many of those out there. Although I will throw in a few flags:

Instead I thought I’d pass along some great information I read (on AOL) on how to improve your memory. And no, the string-around-the-finger does not work, at least not for me.

I confess, I’ve never been good with names, or faces so I’m always looking for suggestions on how to improve in that area. (My favorite is the Two-Word Trick)

The Two-Word Trick
Turns out, if you believe you can remember something, you may actually have better memory recall. By saying “Remember this!” you’re actually actively creating a memory with two little words. The next time you need to remind yourself of something, try saying “Remember this: The telephone bill is on the fridge,” and the act itself will help remind you. Attitude really is everything — studies show that adults who just accept memory loss as a part of aging have been shown to be more forgetful than those who don’t.

Don’t Worry, Be Happy!
Stressed? Chances are you’re also forgetful. People who are chronically fried are more likely to develop cognitive impairment. Cortisol, the hormone produced in times of high stress, interferes with memory formation. So, taking time to breathe and relax when frantically searching for your earrings may actually help you find them next time. Proven stress-management techniques like exercise and yoga can keep your memories and your body healthy.

Try a Java Jolt
Do you find your performance and memory lag around 4 p.m.? You’re not alone. Studies show that memory recall in the morning lags by late afternoon. The answer? Take a coffee break! A study from the University of Arizona has shown that not only is a nice afternoon latte a welcome change of pace, but it may also boost memory

Be Super-Social
Surround yourself with a vibrant social circle, and chances are your brain will stay vibrant, too. Studies from the Harvard School of Public Health found evidence that people who have an active social life may have a slower rate of memory decline. Make good friends now, and with any luck, you’ll still remember their names when you’re 90.

Go Herbal
You’ve probably heard that gingko biloba enhances and protects memory. But there’s a new kid on the block as well: Pycnogenol, an antioxidant derived from tree bark, has been shown to improve memory in senior citizens. Though research on both supplements is still ongoing, they seem promising … provided you can remember to take them regularly in the first place.

Watch the Partying
Guess what? Too much vodka doesn’t just lead to a hangover. It can actually impair your memory. In fact, a recent study from the University of Kentucky showed that hitting the bottle too hard for two months impairs memory for the next three months. In other words, party too hard for too long and you may not remember any of it later on (which is never a good thing).

Sleep on It
Got something you REALLY need to remember? Read it and sleep. Studies show that snoozing not only protects memories, but helps strengthen them. There’s also evidence that a midday nap can help with long-term memory formation. As if we really needed another excuse to nap during the day, now we know it can help us win “Jeopardy.” Score!

Practice Peter Piper
Need to remember a name, a place or some important info? Try to create an alliteration around it, and you’ll increase your chance of memory recall later. Mnemonic devices are a terrific way to engage your mind and studies have shown that alliterative devices work even better than imagery for memory recall. Think, “Hot Henry from HR” or “Stinky Sally.” (Just, uh, don’t say it out loud.)

Get Active!
More blood pumping means more blood flowing to your brain. Studies have shown that just 20 minutes of physical activity per day can markedly decrease memory deterioration. This doesn’t mean you have to become a triathlete to keep your brain power, but walking, dancing (which has the double benefit of increasing memory through activity and social interaction), and even sex can help keep you mentally fit.