Rob Williams
MSW, MBA, LGSW
Psychotherapy
Individual, Group, & Couples
202.330.5390
1555 Connecticut AV NW Suite 401
Washington
DC
20036
4920 Niagara Road
College Park MD 20740
www.aida-therapy.com
Send me your questions!
rob@aida-therapy.com
Visit on the
Web:
www.aida-therapy.com
A sharp mind and strong memory depend on the vitality of your brain's network of interconnecting neurons, and especially on junctions between these neurons called synapses. Since many of the brain changes that accompany aging and mental disorders are associated with deterioration or loss of synapses, learning ways to strengthen and protect these important connections may help you delay or avoid cognitive decline.
“What does that mean?” Lets look more closely:
Stress is a major cause of synapse dysfunction. Research shows that prolonged exposure to stress can interfere with the function of neurotransmitters. Research presented at the 2006 American Psychological Association convention suggests that repeated stress remodels the brain and causes neurons in the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex to shrink. Stress can also lead to depression, which is associated with memory difficulties.
Following these tips may help you keep your mind active and alert by protecting and strengthening your synapses:
1. Reduce stress: Make time for leisure activities. Learn relaxation techniques such as meditation. Cut down on unnecessary responsibilities and avoid over-scheduling.
2. Stimulate your brain: Avoid routine. Enjoy new sensory experiences. Challenge your mind and body with new situations.
3. Exercise: A brisk walk or other cardiovascular workout oxygenates the brain and promotes brain growth factors.
4. Challenge your mind: Tackle puzzles, games and demanding intellectual tasks. Make an effort to learn new information through classes or reading
5. Stay healthy: Eat a nutritious diet, get adequate sleep, avoid smoking, and if you use alcohol, drink in moderation.
Ultimately, if you get plenty of exercise, eat a well-balanced diet full of fruits and vegetables, spend quality time with loved ones and regularly challenge your brain, your mind should maintain its capabilities.
How can this be done?
Daily meditation and mindful awareness.
Research findings demonstrate that a short program in mindfulness
meditation produces demonstrable effects on brain function. These findings
suggest that meditation may change brain function in positive ways.
►As
little as 15 to 30 minutes of mindfulness activity per day has been shown to change
brain function and improve mood.
I invite you to attend my 8 week Living Mindfully course to experience for yourself how daily mindfulness can help you to:
- Cope more effectively with both short and long-term stressful situations
- Increased ability to relax
- Improved self-esteem
- Reduced pain levels and enhanced ability to cope with pain that doesn’t go away
- Greater energy and enthusiasm for life
or call 202-330-5390
Best Regards ,
Rob Williams, MSW, MBA, LGSW
Getting Help and Support from the Author: If you know of someone in need of help regarding a mental health issue, please give me a call. I’m here to help. 202.330.5390 or rob@aida-therapy.com
Rob Williams, MSW, MBA, LGSW
1555 Connecticut AV NW, Suite 401, Washington,
DC
20036
4920 Niagara Road, College Park, MD 20740
202.330.5390
Copyright 2007 Rob Williams. All rights reserved.
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