Cross Train Your Brain April 24, 2014
Posted by nrhatch in Exercise & Fitness, Health & Wellness, Meditation.comments closed
A few weeks ago, we attended a lecture at Freedom Village on Cross Training Your Brain.
We’d heard the speaker, Dr. Kevin W. O’Neill, once before when he presented A Brain Training Symposium.
Dr. O’Neill reiterated that what benefits the body, benefits the brain:
* Exercise ~ Ball Room Dancing is #1!
* Eat right ~ a Mediterranean Diet is best
* Sleep tight ~ without popping pills
* Don’t let the bed bugs bite
* Manage stress ~ meditation is great
* Focus on positives ~ don’t worry, be happy
* Interact with friends ~ be a social animal
* Tickle your funny bone chakra
* Learn something new today ~ build synapses
* Share your talents/volunteer/help others
* Develop an attitude of gratitude
* Drinking coffee lowers the risk of dementia
* Eat tumeric ~ curried veggies, please
* Play games, solve puzzles, have FUN!
* Live, Love, Laugh, Learn!
A few key points:
(1) Exercise is the fountain of youth when it comes to brain health. It lowers the risk of developing Alzheimer’s, increases gray matter, improves blood flow to the brain, elevates mood, and reduces stress. For a 76% reduction in Alzheimer’s risk, try Ballroom Dancing!
(2) Reducing Stress helps maintain brain health ~ try exercise, yoga, tai chi, meditation, or other purposeful pursuits. And get enough sleep. Sleep allows neurons to shut down and repair themselves.
(3) A diet rich in whole grains, fruits, and veggies, and omega 3 fats helps keep dementia at bay. Vitamins C, D, and E are key building blocks for brain health. As is Folic Acid ~ found in dark green veggies, chickpeas, and pinto beans. Avoid sugar, salt, processed foods, unhealthy fast foods, deep fried food, and saturated fats.
(4) Intellectual Stimulation and Social Engagement are beneficial to brain health as we age. Playing games and musical instruments helps ward off dementia. Read books that challenge and inspire you. Complete challenging puzzles. Participate in mentally stimulating activities. Play games that are strategic in nature. Learn new skills or hobbies. Join clubs focused on your interests. Engage in ongoing learning. Stay involved in the community. Visit with friends and family. Volunteer outside the home.
(5) Go ahead, enjoy your daily dose of caffeine. According to the research Dr. O’Neill shared, drinking 3-5 cups of coffee a day will lower your risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease . . . by 65%!
But don’t just sit around drinking coffee, R~E~A~D! More on that tomorrow.
Aah . . . that’s better!
What do you do to keep your brain sharp?
Spirit Lights The Way 