In a world that is increasingly stressful and chaotic, the need to sustain brain health is not optional, but essential. Brain health is critical to bodily health and the capacity to handle change with confidence. Not only that, neuroscience now provides ample evidence that brain capacity can be expanded to reduce or, in some cases, eliminate altogether chronic limitations in emotional, mental and even physical responses. *** 
      A healthy brain is one that is well nourished.  The circulation of blood to the whole brain is good, the electrical charges flow freely, and there is the ability to adapt to change through the flexible adjustment of flows of information from one part of the brain to another. A healthy brain services the whole of one’s life. The brain is precious and should be treated as such.
      For optimal brain health to be established the brain’s function must be supported and/or exercised in SIX ways. Check these for guidance on where you might strengthen your own brain’s health, no matter what your age.

Physically
•    Certain nutrients, such as Vitamin B group, Omega 3 fatty acids, magnesium, and antioxidants, are essential to brain and nervous system functioning. And, of course, certain substances impair it: drugs, alcohol, and the body’s own adrenalin are damaging.
•    The brain needs oxygen. Fresh air and exercise increase the circulation of oxygen. Breathing exercises are helpful.
•    The brain needs rest and recuperation. Good sleeping routines that inform the body that is now time to sleep are important, and sleep disorders should always be attended to. Power naps can be used to redress problems caused by sleep deprivation.

Mentally
     The brain’s capacity to continue to grow and expand throughout life is now well known. Your brain does not need to deteriorate with ageing.  Problem solving and learning of new skills is essential for a healthy brain.
     The mental functions of the right and left hemispheres of the brain require equal attention, particularly as there is a natural tendency towards imbalance. Brain gym exercises are a valuable beginning but skill development is the next step.
•    Right brain orientated individuals need activities that help them to set goals in daily management, and to achieve good interpersonal communication and social competence.
•    Left brain orientated individuals should explore self-expressive activities and those that increase their intuitive capacity.

Emotionally
     The capacity to handle stressful emotions is a key capacity for brain health and the body itself. Biochemical substances of adrenalin and cortisol are, in excess and unprocessed, poisons that weaken the body over time. You need to use effective techniques that release the fear, anxiety or anger so that these substances can be better metabolised by the body. Our e-book Finding inner peace in every day life will assist in ameliorating the pressures you experience from others. It is available to readers who register from the Shop.
     The healthy brain requires emotional nourishment as much as it needs protection from stress.  Make sure your daily life includes activities that stimulate pleasure, emotional comfort, laughter, wonder as well as relaxation. Learn "feel-good" strategies.

Energetically
      You might believe that a healthy brain would automatically ensure a healthy nervous system. But this is not entirely true because the spinal column is also involved in the distribution of information to the body. Disturbances in the spinal column affect the ability of a healthy brain to service the needs of the body. While chiropractic or osteopathic work is useful for physical misalignment, acupuncture and energy healing work such as Reiki that is specifically targeted to repair of energy flows is also important. Flower essences and homeopathics can be useful for certain types of nervous conditions.

Spiritually
     Ultimately our brains are in the service of our evolving consciousness. The person who believes in and cares for their own being, finds meaning in life, is able to contribute to a wider purpose, and operates from love-in-action rather than fear and self-absorption has a brain that serves his or her spiritual aspect. But it is equally true that the search for personal growth in itself assists in the development of brain health.
 

*** We recommend Norman Doidge's book, The brain that changes itself, for a fascinating and easy to read overview of research on this subject.