Supposedly, the IQ test measures how intelligent you are vs. the rest of the population. Alfred Binet, of France, pioneered the first Intelligence Quotient test. He wanted to differentiate between "normal" children and those who were struggling. An American man named Lewis Terman revised the test to what we know today as the "Stanford-Binet" IQ test, which remains controversial for the main reason that intelligence depends primarily on factors such as community, environment, upbringing, and most importantly, genetics.
Many of histories notably intelligent people were not extremely high ranking on the IQ scale. The IQ scoring system is often misunderstood. 90-110 is frequently considered "average," Whereas 130 or over is extremely intelligent, and approximately only 2% of the population achieves this score. Less than 70 are the lowest on the scale.
However, many studies have shown ways to increase your brainpower. Frances Rauscher, a psychologist, found that listening to Baroque music such as Mozart seemed to improve mental ability. Children who obtain music lessons score higher on IQ tests, as well.
Eating well seems to play an important role, as well. Essential fatty acids are impetrative to our brain function. Eicosapentaenoic acid, or EPA, is found in fish oil. Ever noticed how there was an increase in pregnant women taking fish oil supplements? This is why. Of course, eating a balanced diet inclusive of fresh fruits, and vegetables helps, as well as staying hydrated. Exercise is also a key element in maintaining brain function.
Mental activities such as quizzes, books, and puzzles keep your brain in top form. These "mental workouts" keep up your ability to process information, much as working out at the gym maintains physical stamina. Studies have shown these activities can increase IQ scores up to 8%.
Studies show that neural wires transmit electrical messages in the brain. Each neuron covered with a fatty layer of myelin, which insulates and allows the messages to travel at optimal speed; the healthier the myelin, the higher the IQ. Unfortunately, many factors can disturb this function. Some of the most infamous culprits of brain dysfunction are drugs and alcohol.
Positive thinking is a moderately new development relating psychology to physical health. If you are sending yourself negative messages, most likely you will act on these negative messages. Many studies have proven that depression can affect physical health, particularly related to the heart. There is no doubt that this would also affect the largest organ, otherwise known as the brain.