Our Plastic Brain

Brain researchers refer to the brain as "plastic," which means it is pliable, moldable, malleable, limber, formative, adaptable, elastic, flexible, shapeable, supple, and continuously teachable! We are continually capable of learning new things; we can improve performance, get rid of bad habits, and increase intelligence throughout life. Following are some exercises to strengthen various aspects of brain function.

VISUAL: Do lazy 8's for the eyes. Keeping your head straight, slowly "draw" a horizontal 8 in the air with your thumb and follow it with your eyes. Repeat with the other thumb and then both thumbs together. While performing this exercise, state some intention that you want to achieve or a challenge that you want to meet. Go up the center of the body and out to each side.

AUDITORY: Do the lazy 8 pattern with your head resting on your shoulder. Let your head follow your eyes. This can help anchor your hearing with body balance and memory. "Unroll" the outside of your ears down to your earlobes. Start at the top, and repeat 3 times for each ear. This exercise can enhance memory and clear thinking.

KINESTHETIC: Slap one knee and then the other with the opposite hand in time to music.