The Brain as a Muscle
July 10, 2008
In the latest edition of the Harvard Business Review (May 2008 pg.51-54) there is a fascinating interview with a brain expert, John J. Medina. The highlights of his interview are set out below:
1. ‘The brain is like a muscle. The more activity you do, the more experience you have, the larger and more complex the brain becomes.’
2. The brain remains quite plastic until we die. We are lifelong learners. Hint you have to keep learning, improving amd acquiring new skills and knowledge (like the ability to Think quickly!).
3. Unlike a DVD player for example our brain is not like a recording device — this means that we have imperfect memories. But we can improve this ability through repetition, practice and remembering the context in which we remembered the information.
4. Aerobic exercise in particular is wonderful for body and brain health (50% less chance of having Alzheimer’s).
5. Long term stress can lead to a reduction in math’s, processing of language and poorer memories.
6. Research is uncovering new insights about the brain at an astonishing rate (hint–we do not need to hype it).
So business people beware the Brain Age is upon you.
Ken Hudson
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