Mind mapping is an excellent technique. I use visualisation and take notes this way by drawing pictures. If I create a story that helps too.
Brain gym is also useful...Mr S is correct. The brain needs lots of water to function correctly and I teach kineasthetic techniques to the kids at school, specificly done to support the areas of the brain they will need to use in what they are about to learn.
http://www.braingym.org.uk/