Mind the Gap

Dr. Chapman, Director of the Center for Brain Health, reassured the audience that current brain research has come to our rescue. We now know that the brain is the most modifiable organ in the body. When it comes to the brain, the genes you are born with matter, but the nurturing, training and care of the brain matters more.  We can take specific action to keep our brains healthy and fit.  Dr. Chapman shared a set of helpful TIPS:

T - Take a brain health Physical

It is important to know your benchmark.  Read Tamara's article about her brain physical - My Brain Physical.

I - Ignite insights and innovation

Let your mind be idle; that's when deeper level thought and problem solving occurs.  Your mind at rest will make new discoveries and integrate information across your brain regions. Some of our most creative solutions come while in the shower or taking a walk.

P - Practice your passion

We neuroengineer our brains by how we use them.  Don't be a passive learner; the specific brain connections you use get stronger with practice. Learn something new - a language, musical instrument, even a new exercise routine.  And speaking of physical exercise, just do it.  Moving to a new place is great for developing stronger brain connections, but if you can't or don't want to, travel to new cities or try new restaurants or shops in your home town.

S - Strengthen frontal lobe function

Do a simple task and you will build a simple mind.  Abstract, deep level thinking is better.  You must challenge your mind.

Your brain cannot do two things at once.  Practice strategic attention; focus on a single task without interruption or distraction for 30 minutes.  Avoid multi-tasking. It doesn't help your brain, and your performance suffers.

Develop your integrated reasoning; keep a notebook of abstract messages. After meetings or presentations, practice summarizing the key points and [coming up with] the main theme.  Be innovative; brainstorm multiple solutions to a problem.

For more information on the UTD Center for Brain Health:  http://www.brainhealth.utdallas.edu/