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I recently (read finally) gave in to the temptation to just suck it up and buy a subscription to Scientific American Magazine and I have not regretted it at all. I've been learning about every corner of science and technology, including what scientists are currently researching. We really are doing incredible stuff -- it gives me such hope......and if I may reclaim my hick-ness for a moment, boy howdy, does this stuff challenge my brain.
Which brings me to today's post. Last night I read the article "Saving New Brain Cells" by Tracey J. Shors, and learned quite a lot. Read the whole article here. Below are some excerpts.
"Fresh neurons arise in the adult brain every day. New research suggests that the cells ultimately help with learning complex tasks--and the more they are challenged, the more they flourish."
"Thousands of new cells ar generated in the adult brain every day, particularly in the hippocampus, a structure involved in learning and memory. Within a couple of weeks, most of those newborn neruons will die, unless the animal [or human] is challenged to learn something new. Learning--especially that involving a great deal of effort--can keep these new neurons alive. Although the neurons do not seem to be necessary for most types of learning, they may play a role in predicting the future based on past experience. Enhancing neurogenesis might therefor help slow cognitive decline and keep healthy brains fit." [emphasis mine]
So if you want to keep new neurons alive and keep more and more neurons (thus enhancing your ability to learn things), then challenge the heck out of yourself every day. Do math or word puzzles, learn new physical responses with video games, take a class in a topic that makes you think in ways you don't usually. The key is: spend time thinking about things that take a great deal of effort to think about. You will keep your brain buffed up for sure.
