A Discussion on Activities That Increase Brain Resiliency

Dr. Curtis Cripe, NTL Group director of research and development, emphasizes the importance of exercise and a healthy diet when caring for the body. The principle is similar when strengthening the resiliency of the brain.

Contrary to popular belief, the human brain can change and adapt remarkably well. Its resilience to both physical damage and emotional stress is astounding, especially if the brain is in excellent condition. Mental and physical activity play a role in preventing or slowing the onset of damage from degenerative mental illnesses.

Dr. Curtis Cripe explains that keeping the brain in ideal condition typically gives people the idea of hitting the books or doing intellectually stimulating activities. This is not wrong.

In the same way athletes keep their bodies in top form through regular exercise, people can keep the brain in shape through mentally intensive activities such as learning a new language or taking up a mentally stimulating hobby. These activities challenge the brain, encouraging the formation of new connections and the constant reinforcement of older ones. Think of it as a kind of cerebral fitness program.

Physical fitness and general health habits themselves benefit the brain as well. For example, eating a balanced diet delivers nutrients that keep the brain nourished, whereas keeping the body active improves cardiovascular health, promotes better circulation, and helps prevent strokes. Moreover, it has been found that aerobic exercises encourage new connections within the brain.

Exercise is also a fantastic way to manage and combat excessive stress, which has been found to have adverse effects on the brain. The familiar runner's high after an intense cardio workout has an antidepressant effect on the brain, which in turn is associated with a decrease in stress hormones, Dr. Curtis Cripe adds.

Dr. Curtis Cripe head of research and development at NTL Group, expounds on other topics related to his expertise and work on his blogs. Find some of his posts page.