We all know the importance of keeping our bodies physically fit and healthy. Our bodies are amazing – each day new cells replace dying cells and our bodies are in constant regeneration. We can make the decision daily to help our body renew itself. A walk a half hour a day makes our body as well as our mind healthier.
Our brains hunger for novelty. Most of us go through our adult lives engaged in a series of remarkably fixed routines. These routines provide security, efficiency and comfort but they provide little brain exercise. So along with daily physical exercise, let’s exercise our different brain areas and vary the order in which we do things.
Wake up and smell vanilla. Instead of waking up to the same smell of freshly brewed coffee, try something different – vanilla, peppermint or rosemary. Linking a new aroma with your morning routine will activate neural pathways.
Go through your morning rituals – such as combing your hair, brushing your teeth, styling your hair, applying makeup, getting dressed, eating breakfast – using your non dominant hand.
Shower with your eyes closed. Locate the taps, soap, water temperature and flow, using your tactile senses.
Eat in the dark or in silence or with the wrong hand.
Drive to work using a different route than you are accustomed to traveling.
“People say that what we’re all seeking is a meaning for life. I don’t think that’s what we’re really seeking. I think that what we’re seeking is an experience of being alive…” -Joseph Campbell
To all the fathers’ out there, HAPPY FATHERS DAY!
CC DeGraff, Executive Director