Technology and the Brain
The good news is we should dance like no one is watching and sing like no one is listening for the wellness of our body, mind and breath. Neuroscience is giving us more detailed knowledge about brain function and treatment. Statistically, we are 50% affected by our genetics; 10 % by our environment and 40% by our actions. It is that 40% that we can consciously change to improve our quality of life.
More good news, we are not limited to the brain cells that we had at birth, but rather, we can develop neurons and dendrites all through our lives. Brain plasticity refers to the capacity of the brain to modify its structure and function as a result of the interaction with the environment. Training neuroplasticity requires a combination of physical activity with mental activity. Dance to reduce risk of Alzheimer’s by up to 65% or play sports to connect with others and challenge your cerebellum with complex movement patterns.
Here are some more “Brain Boosters”, as suggested in 101 Brain Boosters by Terry Eckmann PH.D.
- Sit less, move more. Sitting deactivates the brain, moving activates the brain
- Walk to increase cognitive functioning and brain value
- Sit in good posture to send a signal of strength and confidence to the brain and to optimize space for organs in the abdominal area to work efficiently
- Get adequate sleep to give the brain the time it needs to regenerate neurons and build memories
- Laugh to boost the immune system, reduce muscle “feel good hormones” in your brain
- Take a different route to a usual destination to take your brain off autopilot; new directions make new connections
- Socialize to decrease loneliness, depression, and stress while boosting brain connections. Socialization is a critical domain of a brain-healthy lifestyle
- Volunteer to connect with others, boost self-confidence and increase life satisfaction
- Keep a “grateful journal” by writing down at least one good thing that happened in your day, which helps to train your brain to make positive memories.
- Don’t just know it; do it. What you do with what you know is the key to making a difference in your brain and your life.
ICAA Conference 2014 – Terry Eckmann, PH.D.
Lawence Biscontini