Neuroplasticity, in the news a lot!

If we want to continue to have great brain health there are some very simple things we can do. Some of the things that affect positive neuroplasticity (the capacity of the brain to change with experience) are physical activity. Seems like a no brainer, no pun intended, but even light exercise such as walking promotes cognitive function. Wonder how you can fit more walking into your daily routine? Take the stairs at work, park at the outer edge of the parking lot when shopping, or walk to the office!

In addition, learning something new that is interesting and requires your focus for long periods of time can have amazing effects. Taking a class that requires homework or learning a language could have you focusing for quite a while. However, it is good to get up from your desk every twenties minutes or so. It keeps one from getting stiff and gives your brain a little rest, ready to tackle those verb tenses when you sit back down.

Another way to improve brain health is simply diet. Incorporating more fruits and vegetables into your diet insures that you get antioxidants. Eating more of these fiber rich foods can affect neuroplasticty in a positive way. Instead of reaching for the chips or candy bars at work, pack some fruit before leaving home. Your waistline and your brain will be healthier and happier.

Halfway through January!

 I thought I would check in with my readers and see how it is going with the New Year's Resolutions. I would love to hear from anyone who has some ideas on how to make their resolutions stick. I, for one have not had much luck. I resolved to do less complaining but I am beginning to wonder if to complain is just human nature. When I really look at my life I have it pretty good. I live in a lovely neighborhood, I'm healthy, and I have friends. When there is something that we complain about constantly it's either time to change it or just accept it.

Maybe the key to our resolutions is to give ourselves a break. There is no point in beating ourselves up for slipping. That never accomplished anything. If we resolved to exercise everyday but we miss a day or two, there is always tomorrow, right?

 "To err is human, to forgive is divine." Why not apply that to ourselves? When we feel ourselves slipping in our resolves, we can look around and take pleasure in having friends, family, and the chance to start a new day, tomorrow!

We have many chances to get it right!

Have you made some New Year's Resolutions and already feeling like you aren't sticking to them? Don't get discouraged, it takes time for new routines to stick. Maybe you resolved to have a better diet and eat more meals at home. If you find yourself sliding off that band wagon try this idea when you do eat out.

Have you noticed that restaurant portions are usually gargantuan? If you ask for a to go container when your server brings your food you won't  be tempted to eat everything on the plate. You will have a lunch for the next day, making dining out both economical and better for the waistline.

Another way to save calories when eating out is to order a couple of selections from the appetizer menu. Often one can have a delicious soup and salad that is gratifying and healthy without breaking the  budget. If the restaurant serves whole grain bread then you are getting healthy carbs as well.

Most importantly don't feel guilty about the choices you make when trying out a new diet plan. It doesn't do any good to beat yourself up. There is always tomorrow and a chance to get it
right… Happy 2014 and best  of luck in your New Year's resolutions!