Exercising the Brain

Excerpt from What Should I Eat Book 2 – Food as Medicine  By Rudy Scarfalloto D.C.

The same physical exercises that benefit the entire body also benefit the brain. In addition, we can also exercise the brain directly ─ by simply using it. This is how we can stimulate the growth of new brain tissue and improve its functioning.

Engaging the brain in intellectually challenging activity increases the production of neurotransmitters and causes brain cells to branch out and develop new connections. This, in turn, prevents or delays the onset of degenerative brain diseases such as Alzheimer’s and allows patients to make a more complete recovery from strokes.

The corresponding adjective to this noun is “horticultural.” Meanwhile, if you are someone who works in this field, then you are said to be a “horticulturist.”

Rejuvenate the Brain by:

•  Curiosity

•  Creativity

•  Problem solving

•  Learning new information and skills

The rule of thumb for brain regeneration is to do something new and different.

Use your mind and body in ways that you have never used them before. If you think you have two left feet, learn to dance, especially structured dancing that requires “learning steps.” If you consider yourself to be mechanically challenged, fix or build something. If you feel most comfortable with technical activities, try painting or poetry. On the other hand, if you feel more at home with art and poetry, take a class in botany or anatomy.

Use your mind and body in ways that you have never used them before. If you think you have two left feet, learn to dance, especially structured dancing that requires “learning steps.” If you consider yourself to be mechanically challenged, fix or build something. If you feel most comfortable with technical activities, try painting or poetry. On the other hand, if you feel more at home with art and poetry, take a class in botany or anatomy.

The six Do’s for Brain Exercise

•  Do something new and different

•  Do something that is outside the box

•  Do something that you find intriguing

•  Do it without criticism or harsh judgment

•  Do it as a child would do it

•  Do it just because you want to.