Thursday, August 19, 2010
In the news recently, a novel kind of brain training game had been shown to work for the first time, and surprised everyone with its novel way of increasing fluid intelligence. This mental exercise limbers up the brain’s overall capacity to solve problems.
The scientists who developed the game all believed it can be a boon to education for the simple reason that it paved the way to improve one’s overall intellectual performance.
Novelty
The new computer-based brain training method designed to improve working memory also managed to increase scores in “fluid intelligence” or general problem-solving ability.
What surprised the other scientists and psychologists was the fact that in practice, the only way to increase fluid intelligence is through direct practice of the tests themselves. This time, however, the work of Drs. Jaeggi and Buschkuhl and colleagues overturned this long-held view.
Their brain training method increased fluid intelligence scores simply by training. The ability to improve fluid intelligence has been termed by Dr.Jaeggi as “the ability to reason and to flexibly adapt to new situations.”
The game
Dr. Jaeggi and colleagues gave 35 volunteers a series of training exercises designed to improve memory and 35 more to a control group. Participants saw a sequence of squares appearing one after the other on the computer every 3 seconds.
The goal was to decide whether the currently-seen square was at the same position as the one somewhere in the sequence. Was it the same as the one two or more positions ago?
At the same time, participants heard spoken letters and their task was the same as the one in the visual form, only this time it was spoken (in audio). The process is actually two independent modality streams running simultaneously.
The tasks were adapted in a way that when participants performed well, the task became harder. If participants performed badly, the task becomes easier. In effect, the task always matched the processing abilities of the participants.
The performance
After the tests (conducted extensively on 4 groups, etc.), the trained subjects showed a significant improvement: they could move from solving over 9 problems to 12.
Afterwards, the more the participants trained, the more problems they could solve in the post-test, a significant and surprising 40% improvement.
The surprise
In education, transfer effects are central to the system. The assumption is that what we learn in school we will apply later sometime in our life in the future.
In the research test, there was tangible transfer, most pronounced on tests with children. The transfer was the most exciting part of the research.
Brain training puzzles
In many newspapers today, there are many brain training puzzles found. There are new generations, too, of video games and consoles such as the Nintendo DS in the hope that they can keep alert the elderly minds.
Many of these will no doubt improve memory and there is now speed in solving puzzles like the Sudoku. There are some, like the good old crosswords, that expand vocabulary. The elderly have been known to benefit from some software exercises also that improve memory.
Brain training is now getting closer and closer to finally make giant strides in helping fight some old brain nemesis as Alzheimer’s and dementia.
The scientists who developed the game all believed it can be a boon to education for the simple reason that it paved the way to improve one’s overall intellectual performance.
Novelty
The new computer-based brain training method designed to improve working memory also managed to increase scores in “fluid intelligence” or general problem-solving ability.
What surprised the other scientists and psychologists was the fact that in practice, the only way to increase fluid intelligence is through direct practice of the tests themselves. This time, however, the work of Drs. Jaeggi and Buschkuhl and colleagues overturned this long-held view.
Their brain training method increased fluid intelligence scores simply by training. The ability to improve fluid intelligence has been termed by Dr.Jaeggi as “the ability to reason and to flexibly adapt to new situations.”
The game
Dr. Jaeggi and colleagues gave 35 volunteers a series of training exercises designed to improve memory and 35 more to a control group. Participants saw a sequence of squares appearing one after the other on the computer every 3 seconds.
The goal was to decide whether the currently-seen square was at the same position as the one somewhere in the sequence. Was it the same as the one two or more positions ago?
At the same time, participants heard spoken letters and their task was the same as the one in the visual form, only this time it was spoken (in audio). The process is actually two independent modality streams running simultaneously.
The tasks were adapted in a way that when participants performed well, the task became harder. If participants performed badly, the task becomes easier. In effect, the task always matched the processing abilities of the participants.
The performance
After the tests (conducted extensively on 4 groups, etc.), the trained subjects showed a significant improvement: they could move from solving over 9 problems to 12.
Afterwards, the more the participants trained, the more problems they could solve in the post-test, a significant and surprising 40% improvement.
The surprise
In education, transfer effects are central to the system. The assumption is that what we learn in school we will apply later sometime in our life in the future.
In the research test, there was tangible transfer, most pronounced on tests with children. The transfer was the most exciting part of the research.
Brain training puzzles
In many newspapers today, there are many brain training puzzles found. There are new generations, too, of video games and consoles such as the Nintendo DS in the hope that they can keep alert the elderly minds.
Many of these will no doubt improve memory and there is now speed in solving puzzles like the Sudoku. There are some, like the good old crosswords, that expand vocabulary. The elderly have been known to benefit from some software exercises also that improve memory.
Brain training is now getting closer and closer to finally make giant strides in helping fight some old brain nemesis as Alzheimer’s and dementia.
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
All over the world today, scientists have now agreed that brain training can and do improve brain power. Like the comparison of physical exercise being good for the body, brain training can keep older minds to function better, and with a bonus – the benefits can last for years.
According to new studies, participating in interactive games help maintain cognitive functions. Mental activities like reading may delay or prevent memory loss. Even after five years, older adults who had about 10 sessions of supervised brain training had shown long-lasting improvements in memory, reasoning and speed of processing.
Research finds
Another striking feature in the research on brain training is the discovery of evidence of the participants’ transfer of skills to everyday functions. Compared to those untrained, these participants were able to do such skills as cooking, managing finances and using their medications.
Reliable improvements had been noted at 87% in speed training and at 74% in reasoning training. These improvements in mental acuity had been detected for about two years or more by the authorities.
Long-term effects
In short, these improvements in brain abilities (better memory, better problem-solving skills, and better concentration) after training have roughly counteracted cognitive decline that older people (even those without histories of dementia) are known for.
Another bit of good news is that researchers have found out that these cognitive improvements were still detectable even after five years since training. Brain-trained seniors can still outperform those untrained individuals in the mental abilities that they had received instructions before.
Function loss and recovery
Research had also discovered that just like losing muscle mass as a person ages, brain function also begins to decline with the passing of years. This is true to all persons, even those leading healthy normal lives.
Everyone knows that prevention of muscle loss can be done by exercise and the continued use of these muscles over time. In the same token, scientist surmised and were proven correct, brain function loss can also be recovered and improved if it has its own form of exercise.
Neurons
It had been long established by science that neurons (nerve cells) are unique in that they will atrophy and die if they do not receive stimulations (either electrical or chemical) from their neighboring cells.
Conversely, if these neurons are stimulated (by way of new sensations, new knowledge, and new experiences) they develop new neural connections between themselves. Once these connections are established, the neurons will all live and grow more connections.
In illnesses like Alzheimer’s, strokes, and other motor neuron diseases, this self-destruction of neurons can lead to serious consequences. Memory loss, difficulties in comprehension and many other critical mental functions are just some of the sorry results.
“Stick-to-itiveness”
One important factor to brain training is “sticking to it”, especially if you are doing your training by yourself. (Clinics and other rehabilitation centers have their programs and trainings usually done in groups to minimize boredom in the participants.)
Another side note to brain training is to perform them in the morning. It had been noted that mornings are the times when the brain is at its peak level of activity.
According to new studies, participating in interactive games help maintain cognitive functions. Mental activities like reading may delay or prevent memory loss. Even after five years, older adults who had about 10 sessions of supervised brain training had shown long-lasting improvements in memory, reasoning and speed of processing.
Research finds
Another striking feature in the research on brain training is the discovery of evidence of the participants’ transfer of skills to everyday functions. Compared to those untrained, these participants were able to do such skills as cooking, managing finances and using their medications.
Reliable improvements had been noted at 87% in speed training and at 74% in reasoning training. These improvements in mental acuity had been detected for about two years or more by the authorities.
Long-term effects
In short, these improvements in brain abilities (better memory, better problem-solving skills, and better concentration) after training have roughly counteracted cognitive decline that older people (even those without histories of dementia) are known for.
Another bit of good news is that researchers have found out that these cognitive improvements were still detectable even after five years since training. Brain-trained seniors can still outperform those untrained individuals in the mental abilities that they had received instructions before.
Function loss and recovery
Research had also discovered that just like losing muscle mass as a person ages, brain function also begins to decline with the passing of years. This is true to all persons, even those leading healthy normal lives.
Everyone knows that prevention of muscle loss can be done by exercise and the continued use of these muscles over time. In the same token, scientist surmised and were proven correct, brain function loss can also be recovered and improved if it has its own form of exercise.
Neurons
It had been long established by science that neurons (nerve cells) are unique in that they will atrophy and die if they do not receive stimulations (either electrical or chemical) from their neighboring cells.
Conversely, if these neurons are stimulated (by way of new sensations, new knowledge, and new experiences) they develop new neural connections between themselves. Once these connections are established, the neurons will all live and grow more connections.
In illnesses like Alzheimer’s, strokes, and other motor neuron diseases, this self-destruction of neurons can lead to serious consequences. Memory loss, difficulties in comprehension and many other critical mental functions are just some of the sorry results.
“Stick-to-itiveness”
One important factor to brain training is “sticking to it”, especially if you are doing your training by yourself. (Clinics and other rehabilitation centers have their programs and trainings usually done in groups to minimize boredom in the participants.)
Another side note to brain training is to perform them in the morning. It had been noted that mornings are the times when the brain is at its peak level of activity.
Tuesday, August 17, 2010
Brain Training For All Ages
Brain training, in its most basic, is simply exercising the brain to keep it fit and healthy, with the intention of keeping it that way all throughout our lives.
These days, brain training is just like physical training – necessary for us to do, so that we shall live longer, healthier, in control of our faculties, and happy with our lives.
Benefits
Brain training exercises, like physical exercises that helps improve body functions, help improve the functions of the brain in its problem-solving abilities, spatial recognition and oral capabilities.
You may notice that after some brain workout, your mind can process information much quicker, more efficiently, and your multi-tasking abilities would begin to show.
Studies show that many brain training exercises turn on the frontal lobe of the brain in a stronger way and act as brain booster by reviving the neurons and improving your grey matter creativity.
Common brain training aids
There are so many good brain training exercises as well as brain stretching and fun games to stimulate our minds. The net is awash with many very good games and “brain exercisers”.
In the outside world, there are the newspaper crossword puzzles, the popular Soduko, the old standby Rubik’s Cube, and some clever mental gymnastics of riddles, other puzzles and many other games.
No age limit
The body may show some signs of wear and tear and the fatigue that goes with them. Exercises have to be modified to fit the person’s age doing the physicals. The brain does not have limits.
Brain training and other mental calisthenics is a one-size-fits-all commodity, except perhaps for the very young and the very old. The following are some of the regular and more common forms of brain training activities.
Memory test
Memory tests are always fun, and helpful. Test your memory and while you are doing the games, you shall also stimulate your brain, and grow more neurons.
Some games that are favored by the older adults are those of remembering faces and names and other images.
Spatial intelligence
The Rubik’s Cube is one very challenging game that will not only stimulate your sense of space (what goes where) and foresight (what to move first), it will also force your sense of logic (why should I move this side first?).
And lastly, it will also stimulate your visual memory and reasoning.
IQ booster
Chess is the world’s best strategy game. In IQ booster, there are variations of the chess game that is not only as challenging as the real game, but also quite as fun.
In chess, you shall learn how to make creative strategies and exercise your most ruthless logic in planning your moves and countermoves. (If you do not know how to play chess, this is the right time to learn.)
Sudoku
This is one of the most exciting games that came out in the 21st century. This is not just a math problem-solving ride, it is another “ruthless logic” little game.
All of the above games are all guaranteed to stimulate all your mental powers, creativity, and reasoning. Doing any and all these games shall constitute your brain training for the day.
Also, they all can be played by anybody from the very youngest to the very oldest.
Brain training, in its most basic, is simply exercising the brain to keep it fit and healthy, with the intention of keeping it that way all throughout our lives.
These days, brain training is just like physical training – necessary for us to do, so that we shall live longer, healthier, in control of our faculties, and happy with our lives.
Benefits
Brain training exercises, like physical exercises that helps improve body functions, help improve the functions of the brain in its problem-solving abilities, spatial recognition and oral capabilities.
You may notice that after some brain workout, your mind can process information much quicker, more efficiently, and your multi-tasking abilities would begin to show.
Studies show that many brain training exercises turn on the frontal lobe of the brain in a stronger way and act as brain booster by reviving the neurons and improving your grey matter creativity.
Common brain training aids
There are so many good brain training exercises as well as brain stretching and fun games to stimulate our minds. The net is awash with many very good games and “brain exercisers”.
In the outside world, there are the newspaper crossword puzzles, the popular Soduko, the old standby Rubik’s Cube, and some clever mental gymnastics of riddles, other puzzles and many other games.
No age limit
The body may show some signs of wear and tear and the fatigue that goes with them. Exercises have to be modified to fit the person’s age doing the physicals. The brain does not have limits.
Brain training and other mental calisthenics is a one-size-fits-all commodity, except perhaps for the very young and the very old. The following are some of the regular and more common forms of brain training activities.
Memory test
Memory tests are always fun, and helpful. Test your memory and while you are doing the games, you shall also stimulate your brain, and grow more neurons.
Some games that are favored by the older adults are those of remembering faces and names and other images.
Spatial intelligence
The Rubik’s Cube is one very challenging game that will not only stimulate your sense of space (what goes where) and foresight (what to move first), it will also force your sense of logic (why should I move this side first?).
And lastly, it will also stimulate your visual memory and reasoning.
IQ booster
Chess is the world’s best strategy game. In IQ booster, there are variations of the chess game that is not only as challenging as the real game, but also quite as fun.
In chess, you shall learn how to make creative strategies and exercise your most ruthless logic in planning your moves and countermoves. (If you do not know how to play chess, this is the right time to learn.)
Sudoku
This is one of the most exciting games that came out in the 21st century. This is not just a math problem-solving ride, it is another “ruthless logic” little game.
All of the above games are all guaranteed to stimulate all your mental powers, creativity, and reasoning. Doing any and all these games shall constitute your brain training for the day.
Also, they all can be played by anybody from the very youngest to the very oldest.
Monday, August 16, 2010
Delaying Dementia With Brain Training
In the landmark publication of a study in the August 4, 2009 issue of Neurology, it was reported that people engaged in brain exercises (brain training) such as reading, writing and playing card games may delay the onset of rapid memory decline that occurs if they later develop dementia.
There was a cautionary adjunct to that happy news. It declared that while “there is evidence that brain exercises do work to slow down cognitive decline”, there was also evidence that the really elderly will not benefit from it.
To be effective, the study said, these brain training needs to be started while people are still in the 60s or 70s. These people need “early life education and participation in cognitively stimulating leisure activities later in life. These are the two factors…which may have delayed the onset of memory decline in the preclinical stages of dementia.”
Brain training facts
Nevertheless, the study results point to the old phrase (directed at first to the benefits of physical exercise) “use it or lose it” as equally valid for mental fitness, too. Previous studies had also shown that regular brain training sessions can help ward off dementia and symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease.
The following list gives out reasons why the right kind of mental exercises can fortify your brain. It also reiterates what research says about using brain calisthenics to defend yourself against memory loss.
(1) Mental decline is not inevitable. Adults can actually grow new brain cells. This reverses the long-held belief that lost brainpower caused by aging cannot be recovered anymore.
(2) You can build a set of extra neurons (cognitive reserve) in your brain to help offset those you had gradually lost as you aged. A data analysis published in a journal says that a mere 5% increase in the cognitive reserve can prevent one-third of Alzheimer’s cases.
(3) Frequent cognitive activities can reduce dementia risk by up to 63%.
(4) Brain training may slow the effects of Alzheimer’s disease. Upon the death of a patient (not from Alzheimer’s), his autopsy revealed advanced Alzheimer’s. doctors concluded his chess-playing may have helped kept the disease in check.
He had also kept his condition in check by bolstering his brains with chess and other intellectual “push-ups.”
(5) Cross-training counts. Focusing only on a single mental activity will not exercise all the cognitive domains needed to keep the brains agile. Furthermore, consistent and long-term mental stimulation appears to be the key to reducing risk of memory loss and dementia.
If you can, also include activities that address areas for short-term and long-term memories, critical thinking, visual and spatial orientation, calculation and language.
(6) Teaching the brain new tricks can also help. Learning a new language, music lessons, or teaching yourself how to use the iPod can contribute to building new brain circuits.
(7) Never neglect your physical exercises, too. Cardiovascular and strength training boost brainpower by generating more blood flow to the brain which supplies oxygen and nutrients promoting the growth of new brain cells.
All in all, keep yourself well-informed on how to give your brains a good workout and what kind of physical exercise are the best for you. More good news on brain training had been turning up everywhere (TV, print, internet) lately. Stay tuned.
In the landmark publication of a study in the August 4, 2009 issue of Neurology, it was reported that people engaged in brain exercises (brain training) such as reading, writing and playing card games may delay the onset of rapid memory decline that occurs if they later develop dementia.
There was a cautionary adjunct to that happy news. It declared that while “there is evidence that brain exercises do work to slow down cognitive decline”, there was also evidence that the really elderly will not benefit from it.
To be effective, the study said, these brain training needs to be started while people are still in the 60s or 70s. These people need “early life education and participation in cognitively stimulating leisure activities later in life. These are the two factors…which may have delayed the onset of memory decline in the preclinical stages of dementia.”
Brain training facts
Nevertheless, the study results point to the old phrase (directed at first to the benefits of physical exercise) “use it or lose it” as equally valid for mental fitness, too. Previous studies had also shown that regular brain training sessions can help ward off dementia and symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease.
The following list gives out reasons why the right kind of mental exercises can fortify your brain. It also reiterates what research says about using brain calisthenics to defend yourself against memory loss.
(1) Mental decline is not inevitable. Adults can actually grow new brain cells. This reverses the long-held belief that lost brainpower caused by aging cannot be recovered anymore.
(2) You can build a set of extra neurons (cognitive reserve) in your brain to help offset those you had gradually lost as you aged. A data analysis published in a journal says that a mere 5% increase in the cognitive reserve can prevent one-third of Alzheimer’s cases.
(3) Frequent cognitive activities can reduce dementia risk by up to 63%.
(4) Brain training may slow the effects of Alzheimer’s disease. Upon the death of a patient (not from Alzheimer’s), his autopsy revealed advanced Alzheimer’s. doctors concluded his chess-playing may have helped kept the disease in check.
He had also kept his condition in check by bolstering his brains with chess and other intellectual “push-ups.”
(5) Cross-training counts. Focusing only on a single mental activity will not exercise all the cognitive domains needed to keep the brains agile. Furthermore, consistent and long-term mental stimulation appears to be the key to reducing risk of memory loss and dementia.
If you can, also include activities that address areas for short-term and long-term memories, critical thinking, visual and spatial orientation, calculation and language.
(6) Teaching the brain new tricks can also help. Learning a new language, music lessons, or teaching yourself how to use the iPod can contribute to building new brain circuits.
(7) Never neglect your physical exercises, too. Cardiovascular and strength training boost brainpower by generating more blood flow to the brain which supplies oxygen and nutrients promoting the growth of new brain cells.
All in all, keep yourself well-informed on how to give your brains a good workout and what kind of physical exercise are the best for you. More good news on brain training had been turning up everywhere (TV, print, internet) lately. Stay tuned.
Friday, August 13, 2010
All of us, in a certain point of our lives, experienced memory loss. It could be forgetting where we put the keys, if we have locked the door, etc. As we grow older, it is natural for some of our brain cells to age and die which would cause some problems with memory. Over the years, research on brain training showed that it could help in decreasing memory loss.
Dementia is one of the biggest health issues that the older generation is facing. Currently, about 24 million people are suffering from dementia. By 2040, the number could reach about 84 million of sufferers, making us one of the possible patients of dementia.
The same goes for Alzheimer’s disease which is affecting about five million Americans. Health experts project that Alzheimer patients could reach about 16 million by 2050. That is until the current generation would do something to avoid such problems with memory loss.
How does brain training help us in enhancing our memory?
Think of the brain as a muscle. When developing muscles, exercise is needed to develop strength and flexibility. The same goes for the brain, different exercises would help sharpen the memory and enhance focus and concentration.
One can buy a brain training online program. In a brain training program, you would have an idea on the present status of your brain. There are some software for brain games which would help you get an idea how “old” your brain. Understanding your weaknesses would help you build its strength. This software can also be referred to as your brain trainer.
Getting a “brain trainer” could cost you, but there are also other exercises you could engage in which would set your brain into action. Brain games and exercises like solving puzzles, logical-thinking games, card games and board games could help your mind. Just keep in mind that the brain develops when repeating certain skills. So you could stick with one kind of game of problem solving.
According to a research performed by the University of Alabama led by Dr. Karlene Ball, different brain training could help in improving memory. In their research, there were four groups of people. One group was the control, receiving no kind of training. The remaining three groups had different kinds of memory trainings.
According to the research findings, the three groups that received memory training showed improvement in their mental functions. Those who underwent memory training sessions showed development in how they process the information and quicker reasoning.
Those who have not received any training did not exhibit any advancement in their mental activities. Aside from improved memory, there are studies showing brain training also had an effect on the mind’s alertness and ability to remain in a positive mood.
Brain training, however, is not a standard program for everyone. A particular brain training program may work for one person, but may not yield significant effects on the other. This is the reason why brain training would start with knowing your brain and getting an idea what would be suitable for you.
In these studies, brain training did not only lasted for a couple of weeks but stretched until two years. Brain training is a choice. A choice which would be based on understanding the importance of maintaining and developing your mental health.
Dementia is one of the biggest health issues that the older generation is facing. Currently, about 24 million people are suffering from dementia. By 2040, the number could reach about 84 million of sufferers, making us one of the possible patients of dementia.
The same goes for Alzheimer’s disease which is affecting about five million Americans. Health experts project that Alzheimer patients could reach about 16 million by 2050. That is until the current generation would do something to avoid such problems with memory loss.
How does brain training help us in enhancing our memory?
Think of the brain as a muscle. When developing muscles, exercise is needed to develop strength and flexibility. The same goes for the brain, different exercises would help sharpen the memory and enhance focus and concentration.
One can buy a brain training online program. In a brain training program, you would have an idea on the present status of your brain. There are some software for brain games which would help you get an idea how “old” your brain. Understanding your weaknesses would help you build its strength. This software can also be referred to as your brain trainer.
Getting a “brain trainer” could cost you, but there are also other exercises you could engage in which would set your brain into action. Brain games and exercises like solving puzzles, logical-thinking games, card games and board games could help your mind. Just keep in mind that the brain develops when repeating certain skills. So you could stick with one kind of game of problem solving.
According to a research performed by the University of Alabama led by Dr. Karlene Ball, different brain training could help in improving memory. In their research, there were four groups of people. One group was the control, receiving no kind of training. The remaining three groups had different kinds of memory trainings.
According to the research findings, the three groups that received memory training showed improvement in their mental functions. Those who underwent memory training sessions showed development in how they process the information and quicker reasoning.
Those who have not received any training did not exhibit any advancement in their mental activities. Aside from improved memory, there are studies showing brain training also had an effect on the mind’s alertness and ability to remain in a positive mood.
Brain training, however, is not a standard program for everyone. A particular brain training program may work for one person, but may not yield significant effects on the other. This is the reason why brain training would start with knowing your brain and getting an idea what would be suitable for you.
In these studies, brain training did not only lasted for a couple of weeks but stretched until two years. Brain training is a choice. A choice which would be based on understanding the importance of maintaining and developing your mental health.
Thursday, August 12, 2010
The brain is a tireless workhorse that controls all bodily activities. It should be kept in good shape at all times. This can be done by exposing it to various brain training methods that will exercise your brain.
Take a look.
Your brain does not have the innate ability to store energy therefore it is your job to fuel it with the appropriate nourishment. You cannot tell it to run laps if it’s hungry. A diet rich in antioxidants and vitamins is the way to go. This will give your brain an edge in the memory and cognition department.
It will be of big help if you constantly entice your brain with food varieties. Make sure that before engaging in puzzling and mind-boggling stunts you have taken a well-balanced meal. Fruit, whole grain, veggies, nuts, meat, and the likes should be amply present on your plate come eating time.
Part of the whole training thing is starting the day right. Pack your breakfast with beans. According to studies these tiny wonders can give your cognitive skills a huge lift. Make sure you and the kids move away from those table junks so that tasks are completed with ease.
Rev your brain up and tease it with playful thoughts. Challenge it every now and then as your day goes on. Develop a habit of engaging in a stimulating talk with a friend or colleague. Take on new hobbies and master new skills. Welcome something new such as learning a foreign language or art.
The given actions will improve the blood flow in your brain thereby strengthening the synapses between the nerves. You can spice things up by multi-tasking. Flip the pages of a novel or complete a crossword while talking on the phone or surfing the net.
Laughing your brains out may not sound too good but it can help. Experts state that people who were exposed to some sort of comedy tend to perform better in works that demand a high dose of creative thinking. These people express feelings of excitement, alertness, and interest.
Although you should be warned that a good laugh is not adequate to make your brain perform during tasks that need to be done on a formal setting.
As you reach your front door after a hard day’s work think of less TV involvement. Studies indicate that people who are so glued to their favorite program tend to go in a neutral state wherein high amounts of alpha brain waves are wondering about the halls of the brain. This is like hiding away in the darkest corner of your home doing nothing.
During moments of relaxation you can help your brain ease up by adding new terms in your arsenal. Having the right words at the right time can do you great wonders like bagging that position you’ve been working on or hitting the jackpot with a date. Limit this exercise to a maximum of eight words. Getting too excited and going beyond will hinder needed retention.
Intellectuals who made their glorious way into recognition dared to be different. They slipped away from conventional knowledge and laid out unique assumptions. Question the ones you know off to trigger the thought process on a regular basis.
Training the brain requires constant practice. Observe these things regularly and you’ll end up with healthy and happy thoughts.
Take a look.
Your brain does not have the innate ability to store energy therefore it is your job to fuel it with the appropriate nourishment. You cannot tell it to run laps if it’s hungry. A diet rich in antioxidants and vitamins is the way to go. This will give your brain an edge in the memory and cognition department.
It will be of big help if you constantly entice your brain with food varieties. Make sure that before engaging in puzzling and mind-boggling stunts you have taken a well-balanced meal. Fruit, whole grain, veggies, nuts, meat, and the likes should be amply present on your plate come eating time.
Part of the whole training thing is starting the day right. Pack your breakfast with beans. According to studies these tiny wonders can give your cognitive skills a huge lift. Make sure you and the kids move away from those table junks so that tasks are completed with ease.
Rev your brain up and tease it with playful thoughts. Challenge it every now and then as your day goes on. Develop a habit of engaging in a stimulating talk with a friend or colleague. Take on new hobbies and master new skills. Welcome something new such as learning a foreign language or art.
The given actions will improve the blood flow in your brain thereby strengthening the synapses between the nerves. You can spice things up by multi-tasking. Flip the pages of a novel or complete a crossword while talking on the phone or surfing the net.
Laughing your brains out may not sound too good but it can help. Experts state that people who were exposed to some sort of comedy tend to perform better in works that demand a high dose of creative thinking. These people express feelings of excitement, alertness, and interest.
Although you should be warned that a good laugh is not adequate to make your brain perform during tasks that need to be done on a formal setting.
As you reach your front door after a hard day’s work think of less TV involvement. Studies indicate that people who are so glued to their favorite program tend to go in a neutral state wherein high amounts of alpha brain waves are wondering about the halls of the brain. This is like hiding away in the darkest corner of your home doing nothing.
During moments of relaxation you can help your brain ease up by adding new terms in your arsenal. Having the right words at the right time can do you great wonders like bagging that position you’ve been working on or hitting the jackpot with a date. Limit this exercise to a maximum of eight words. Getting too excited and going beyond will hinder needed retention.
Intellectuals who made their glorious way into recognition dared to be different. They slipped away from conventional knowledge and laid out unique assumptions. Question the ones you know off to trigger the thought process on a regular basis.
Training the brain requires constant practice. Observe these things regularly and you’ll end up with healthy and happy thoughts.
Sunday, August 8, 2010
Losing your mental function like memory retention and reasoning, are among the biggest problems that the older generation face. Dementia is one of them, with Alzheimer’s disease as its common cause. Medical researchers are trying to determine how to slow down or possibly reverse the effects of these diseases through brain training.
• Understanding Dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease
Dementia and Alzheimer’s disease are often interchanged. Dementia refers to weakened memory and mental health. Alzheimer’s disease is said to have caused about 50 to 60% of dementia cases. Other possible cause of dementia are Parkinson’s and Huntington’s diseases, stroke, excessive alcohol and drug use, nutritional deficiencies, head injuries and illnesses related to the brain.
Alzheimer’s disease starts slowly. The areas that get affected first are those concerned with memory, language and reasoning. Eventually, these symptoms would become more serious, like forgetting essential functions for personal care. The risk of having Alzheimer’s starts once a person reach 60 years old. Risks are also greater if a family member has the disease.
Worldwide, there are said to be 24 million people who are suffering from a certain form of dementia. If not addressed immediately, the number could reach 84 million by 2040. The Alzheimer’s Association in the United States, listed 4.5 million cases of Alzheimer’s disease in 2004.
• Brain Training
Brain exercises could help in delaying the onset of dementia. According to the study led by Dr. Charles B. Hall from the Department of Epidemiology and Population Health, Einstein College of Medicine, New York; engaging in leisurely brain exercises like reading, writing and card playing could reduce memory decline.
In their study, they observed 488 respondents ranging from 75 to 85 years old. The study lasted for five years and the participants have no form of dementia at the beginning of the research. After five years, about 101 of the respondents developed dementia.
In their study, the respondents are encouraged to participate in leisure activities like solving crossword puzzles, playing card and board games, also reading and writing. Those who have only performed one activity each week and who have not performed anything at all, developed dementia.
Alzheimer effects on the brain could also be slowed down by brain training as showed in the case of Richard Wetherhill. A skilled chess player and a university lecturer, Wetherhill underwent neurological exams getting normal results. But when his body was autopsied after his death, tests showed that he had developed advanced Alzheimer’s disease. Apparently, the effects of disease were slowed down through playing chess and other brain exercises.
When training the brain, it is important to do different cognitive exercises. It is not enough to focus on one form only like a card game. There are different kinds of brain exercises which can be used like puzzles, optical exercises and illusions, math, reasoning and language exercises.
Brain training is also not only mental exercises. Physical exercises are also important in developing better mental health. Exercise would feed oxygen to the brain, making the blood flow more efficiently and result in growth of new brain cells.
In the study, people above 70 years old are subjected to training. Health experts agree that it is better to start early. Brain training could be done before reaching 60 years old, allowing more time for the brain to explore different kinds of training and exercises.
• Understanding Dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease
Dementia and Alzheimer’s disease are often interchanged. Dementia refers to weakened memory and mental health. Alzheimer’s disease is said to have caused about 50 to 60% of dementia cases. Other possible cause of dementia are Parkinson’s and Huntington’s diseases, stroke, excessive alcohol and drug use, nutritional deficiencies, head injuries and illnesses related to the brain.
Alzheimer’s disease starts slowly. The areas that get affected first are those concerned with memory, language and reasoning. Eventually, these symptoms would become more serious, like forgetting essential functions for personal care. The risk of having Alzheimer’s starts once a person reach 60 years old. Risks are also greater if a family member has the disease.
Worldwide, there are said to be 24 million people who are suffering from a certain form of dementia. If not addressed immediately, the number could reach 84 million by 2040. The Alzheimer’s Association in the United States, listed 4.5 million cases of Alzheimer’s disease in 2004.
• Brain Training
Brain exercises could help in delaying the onset of dementia. According to the study led by Dr. Charles B. Hall from the Department of Epidemiology and Population Health, Einstein College of Medicine, New York; engaging in leisurely brain exercises like reading, writing and card playing could reduce memory decline.
In their study, they observed 488 respondents ranging from 75 to 85 years old. The study lasted for five years and the participants have no form of dementia at the beginning of the research. After five years, about 101 of the respondents developed dementia.
In their study, the respondents are encouraged to participate in leisure activities like solving crossword puzzles, playing card and board games, also reading and writing. Those who have only performed one activity each week and who have not performed anything at all, developed dementia.
Alzheimer effects on the brain could also be slowed down by brain training as showed in the case of Richard Wetherhill. A skilled chess player and a university lecturer, Wetherhill underwent neurological exams getting normal results. But when his body was autopsied after his death, tests showed that he had developed advanced Alzheimer’s disease. Apparently, the effects of disease were slowed down through playing chess and other brain exercises.
When training the brain, it is important to do different cognitive exercises. It is not enough to focus on one form only like a card game. There are different kinds of brain exercises which can be used like puzzles, optical exercises and illusions, math, reasoning and language exercises.
Brain training is also not only mental exercises. Physical exercises are also important in developing better mental health. Exercise would feed oxygen to the brain, making the blood flow more efficiently and result in growth of new brain cells.
In the study, people above 70 years old are subjected to training. Health experts agree that it is better to start early. Brain training could be done before reaching 60 years old, allowing more time for the brain to explore different kinds of training and exercises.
Saturday, August 7, 2010
You have to work with your brain to get the best results. Pay attention to the cues that it frequently sends. Don’t wait for it to go red alert on you. Engage in brain training imagery sessions and enforce its abilities before you are faced with such horrifying scenario.
You can get your brain to run in full mode using the lazy eight routine. It is specifically designed to enhance the level of focus needed to maximize your reading time. Choose a spot preferably a wall and sit or stand in front of it. Begin staring at a particular point within eye level.
Draw an imaginary figure of eight on the wall. Complete one full round of tracing then go back to your predetermined point. Execute the step again but this time around do it in reverse. The number to aim for is 10 making sure that each direction is covered per lap. Keep your neck muscles relaxed throughout the procedure while minimizing head movements.
A patent blood flow to the brain is essential in keeping it healthy. You can utilize a power yawn in order to relax the muscles of your face and mouth. This will improve circulation in nearby areas of he brain.
Take a comfortable sitting position. Gently massage the muscles situated on your jaw and cheekbone area. Mild to moderate pressure should be applied. For two to three minutes ignore everything around you and focus on what you have to achieve. By doing so, you will come out of the exercise feeling revived and ready to take on the challenge at hand.
Chess is a classic board game that can test your critical thinking skills. It allows you to focus on the game and trace future moves that can result into a win. If you are tired of playing with predictable individuals in your house or neighborhood you can rely on the World Wide Web to bring forth a roster of international online players willing to take your king down.
Music does not only help the brain relax as it can also be a tool that can keep your control unit alert and active. How so? You can do it by creating your own music. Take on the complexities involved in learning how to master an instrument. According to research, children who engage in piano lessons at an early age perform well in school specifically in mathematics.
Your brain needs to freshen up once in a while. Move away from the monotonous sights, sounds, and smells in your life. A day of driving home using a different route can make a big difference. Open up new pathways so as to increase awareness and interest thereby stimulating brain activity.
Although technology is around to make your life easier, take some time off from your calculator and do your math mentally. Run the figures in your head to make sure that your brain is far from rusting. Memorize contacts and addresses which may come in handy when your phone’s dead.
Observe the relaxation that visualization has to offer. Along the way you have the chance to sharpen your mental capability. Choose a place or object. Get the details and write it down or better yet do some sketching.
There are tons of ways to win the brain training game. You don’t need a PhD to move up to greater heights. Bear in mind the power is in you.
You can get your brain to run in full mode using the lazy eight routine. It is specifically designed to enhance the level of focus needed to maximize your reading time. Choose a spot preferably a wall and sit or stand in front of it. Begin staring at a particular point within eye level.
Draw an imaginary figure of eight on the wall. Complete one full round of tracing then go back to your predetermined point. Execute the step again but this time around do it in reverse. The number to aim for is 10 making sure that each direction is covered per lap. Keep your neck muscles relaxed throughout the procedure while minimizing head movements.
A patent blood flow to the brain is essential in keeping it healthy. You can utilize a power yawn in order to relax the muscles of your face and mouth. This will improve circulation in nearby areas of he brain.
Take a comfortable sitting position. Gently massage the muscles situated on your jaw and cheekbone area. Mild to moderate pressure should be applied. For two to three minutes ignore everything around you and focus on what you have to achieve. By doing so, you will come out of the exercise feeling revived and ready to take on the challenge at hand.
Chess is a classic board game that can test your critical thinking skills. It allows you to focus on the game and trace future moves that can result into a win. If you are tired of playing with predictable individuals in your house or neighborhood you can rely on the World Wide Web to bring forth a roster of international online players willing to take your king down.
Music does not only help the brain relax as it can also be a tool that can keep your control unit alert and active. How so? You can do it by creating your own music. Take on the complexities involved in learning how to master an instrument. According to research, children who engage in piano lessons at an early age perform well in school specifically in mathematics.
Your brain needs to freshen up once in a while. Move away from the monotonous sights, sounds, and smells in your life. A day of driving home using a different route can make a big difference. Open up new pathways so as to increase awareness and interest thereby stimulating brain activity.
Although technology is around to make your life easier, take some time off from your calculator and do your math mentally. Run the figures in your head to make sure that your brain is far from rusting. Memorize contacts and addresses which may come in handy when your phone’s dead.
Observe the relaxation that visualization has to offer. Along the way you have the chance to sharpen your mental capability. Choose a place or object. Get the details and write it down or better yet do some sketching.
There are tons of ways to win the brain training game. You don’t need a PhD to move up to greater heights. Bear in mind the power is in you.
Tuesday, August 3, 2010
Brain training as we know it is the act of doing mental exercises to stimulate brain functioning and cognitive development. Most of today’s brain training package would include puzzles and logic games, flash cards, video games and other thinking exercises.
In theory, all these mental exercises are thought to generally improve mental acuity in such areas as memory, concentration and reasoning. They are thought to reduce the effects of Alzheimer’s-related symptoms and slow down the mental effects of aging.
As attested to by MRI (magnetic resonance imaging), people who did their daily mental exercises have shown improved memorization skills.
Interdependent components
However, today’s medical practitioners believe that brain training does not depend wholly on mental exercises which were used to stimulate the brain and develop further its cognitive power.
Just like regular programs for regular individuals, brain training was found to be most effective when all of the five interdependent components are carried out in full.
These components are physical training, emotional balance, mental workouts (the actual brain exercises), nutrition and food supplements and healthy lifestyle.
Physical Training
Like the rest of the body, your brain is affected by physical exercise. Basically, brain stimulation is the secret in keeping your brain vital and supple.
The simple reason is that neurons need more oxygen than any other body part to function well. Study results have shown that physical exercise provides enough blood flow to meet that need. It also provides glucose and other nutritional needs for the neurons.
Among other things, it had also been proven that exercise increases cognitive brain functions, enhances learning, boosts memory and keeps away neurodegenerative diseases. (Exercise stimulates growth hormones that helps revitalize neurons.)
Nutrition and diets
Again, based on research data on brain nutrition, restricted-calorie diets can increase the life expectancy of your central nervous system. Researchers believe that restricting intakes of calorie triggers some mechanism that allows neurons to live longer.
Recent studies indicate that the Mediterranean diet (lots of fruits and vegetables, olive oil, moderate dairy and red meat, eggs and wine) tops the others as the most ideal so far. The same goes with antioxidant-rich food such as spinach and green cabbage as well as blueberries and raspberries.
Other brain foods include those rich in selenium and folic acid like whole wheat and lima beans. Flax, nuts, and foods with nutrients such as omega-3 fatty acids (in most cold-water fish) are also very good.
Emotional balance and healthy lifestyle
Emotional balance is usually attained if a person has a healthy outlook in life. A good sense of humor and a healthy sense of curiosity and open-mindedness on everything around make for a good start in a person’s emotional balance.
Even at an advanced age, a person should always keep a normal healthy lifestyle. Everything in moderation goes a long way to maintain one’s health.
Super fuels
Certain substances such as caffeine (in coffee and tea) have been scientifically validated as “super-fuels” for the brain, giving a short-term boost to functions such as vigilance and memory. Some studies also indicated there may be positive long-term effects when these substances are consumed in moderation.
All in all, the brain exercises and the other components of brain training should be carried out together to get their full benefits.
In theory, all these mental exercises are thought to generally improve mental acuity in such areas as memory, concentration and reasoning. They are thought to reduce the effects of Alzheimer’s-related symptoms and slow down the mental effects of aging.
As attested to by MRI (magnetic resonance imaging), people who did their daily mental exercises have shown improved memorization skills.
Interdependent components
However, today’s medical practitioners believe that brain training does not depend wholly on mental exercises which were used to stimulate the brain and develop further its cognitive power.
Just like regular programs for regular individuals, brain training was found to be most effective when all of the five interdependent components are carried out in full.
These components are physical training, emotional balance, mental workouts (the actual brain exercises), nutrition and food supplements and healthy lifestyle.
Physical Training
Like the rest of the body, your brain is affected by physical exercise. Basically, brain stimulation is the secret in keeping your brain vital and supple.
The simple reason is that neurons need more oxygen than any other body part to function well. Study results have shown that physical exercise provides enough blood flow to meet that need. It also provides glucose and other nutritional needs for the neurons.
Among other things, it had also been proven that exercise increases cognitive brain functions, enhances learning, boosts memory and keeps away neurodegenerative diseases. (Exercise stimulates growth hormones that helps revitalize neurons.)
Nutrition and diets
Again, based on research data on brain nutrition, restricted-calorie diets can increase the life expectancy of your central nervous system. Researchers believe that restricting intakes of calorie triggers some mechanism that allows neurons to live longer.
Recent studies indicate that the Mediterranean diet (lots of fruits and vegetables, olive oil, moderate dairy and red meat, eggs and wine) tops the others as the most ideal so far. The same goes with antioxidant-rich food such as spinach and green cabbage as well as blueberries and raspberries.
Other brain foods include those rich in selenium and folic acid like whole wheat and lima beans. Flax, nuts, and foods with nutrients such as omega-3 fatty acids (in most cold-water fish) are also very good.
Emotional balance and healthy lifestyle
Emotional balance is usually attained if a person has a healthy outlook in life. A good sense of humor and a healthy sense of curiosity and open-mindedness on everything around make for a good start in a person’s emotional balance.
Even at an advanced age, a person should always keep a normal healthy lifestyle. Everything in moderation goes a long way to maintain one’s health.
Super fuels
Certain substances such as caffeine (in coffee and tea) have been scientifically validated as “super-fuels” for the brain, giving a short-term boost to functions such as vigilance and memory. Some studies also indicated there may be positive long-term effects when these substances are consumed in moderation.
All in all, the brain exercises and the other components of brain training should be carried out together to get their full benefits.
Monday, August 2, 2010
Training your brain, which is also called cognitive training are performed to increase the function and processes of the brain.
With brain training, different exercises are performed to increase listening, reading, writing, visual and auditory skills. Aside from improving brain processes, it could also considered by a growing number of health professionals as a great way for cognitive therapy.
There are studies showing the benefits of brain training for the older generation. It could delay the onset of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease, which is one of the major causes of dementia cases. Health experts recommend that upon reaching the age of 60, it is best to take a few minutes each day for brain training to avoid memory loss.
There are “brain gymnasiums” which help baby boomers and elderly in training their minds especially since aging affects brain functions. In these gymnasiums, there are brain games that allow them to develop flexibility, their memory, spatial recall and their problem solving skills.
There are also studies showing how cognitive brain training could help children suffering from ADHD. When a child is diagnosed with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), parents can have medications for their kids. However, there are studies showing that children who gets medication may also develop a calm behaviour, but showed no improvement in their relationships with peers or grades.
Cognitive brain training as a therapy for ADHD sufferers, could actually increase focus and short term memory, according to a research performed by Rosemary Tannock of University of Toronto and Susan Gathercole of the University of Durham in England.
Brain training as cognitive therapy, like in ADHD cases, could be done using computer programs. Actually, using computer software is more cost-efficient and easiest for one-on-one instruction. By using a software, the users would immediately receive positive reinforcement through rewards or praises which helps in improving their self-esteem and confidence.
Cognitive therapy through games can also help those who are recovering from stroke and brain-related diseases. In a research at the University of Queensland’s Queensland Brain Institute (QBI), they discovered that if a neuron or a nerve cell does not receive electrical and chemical stimuli, it would wither and die.
This is why it is essential in recovering from diseases that affect the neuron’s activity to keep the brain cells working.
Brain training research also showed that it could contribute in increasing a person’s intellect, since it would help in creating new associations, finishing challenges, comprehension and ability to acquire new information and knowledge. In other studies, brain games even showed that it could help people become more safe drivers since it could increase focus, react quickly to situations, and accurate understanding of reality.
And the benefits of brain training are not just affecting short-term memory, etc., its effects are life-lasting. According to Elizabeth A.L. Stine-Morrow from the Beckman Institute at the University of Illinois, their research actually showed that brain training effects were maintained over five years among the elderly who participated in their study.
This showed that the cognitive skills learned through brain training could actually deliver long-term effects which could significantly affect our mental health over the years to come.
With brain training, different exercises are performed to increase listening, reading, writing, visual and auditory skills. Aside from improving brain processes, it could also considered by a growing number of health professionals as a great way for cognitive therapy.
There are studies showing the benefits of brain training for the older generation. It could delay the onset of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease, which is one of the major causes of dementia cases. Health experts recommend that upon reaching the age of 60, it is best to take a few minutes each day for brain training to avoid memory loss.
There are “brain gymnasiums” which help baby boomers and elderly in training their minds especially since aging affects brain functions. In these gymnasiums, there are brain games that allow them to develop flexibility, their memory, spatial recall and their problem solving skills.
There are also studies showing how cognitive brain training could help children suffering from ADHD. When a child is diagnosed with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), parents can have medications for their kids. However, there are studies showing that children who gets medication may also develop a calm behaviour, but showed no improvement in their relationships with peers or grades.
Cognitive brain training as a therapy for ADHD sufferers, could actually increase focus and short term memory, according to a research performed by Rosemary Tannock of University of Toronto and Susan Gathercole of the University of Durham in England.
Brain training as cognitive therapy, like in ADHD cases, could be done using computer programs. Actually, using computer software is more cost-efficient and easiest for one-on-one instruction. By using a software, the users would immediately receive positive reinforcement through rewards or praises which helps in improving their self-esteem and confidence.
Cognitive therapy through games can also help those who are recovering from stroke and brain-related diseases. In a research at the University of Queensland’s Queensland Brain Institute (QBI), they discovered that if a neuron or a nerve cell does not receive electrical and chemical stimuli, it would wither and die.
This is why it is essential in recovering from diseases that affect the neuron’s activity to keep the brain cells working.
Brain training research also showed that it could contribute in increasing a person’s intellect, since it would help in creating new associations, finishing challenges, comprehension and ability to acquire new information and knowledge. In other studies, brain games even showed that it could help people become more safe drivers since it could increase focus, react quickly to situations, and accurate understanding of reality.
And the benefits of brain training are not just affecting short-term memory, etc., its effects are life-lasting. According to Elizabeth A.L. Stine-Morrow from the Beckman Institute at the University of Illinois, their research actually showed that brain training effects were maintained over five years among the elderly who participated in their study.
This showed that the cognitive skills learned through brain training could actually deliver long-term effects which could significantly affect our mental health over the years to come.
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