Want a Youthful Brain? Go Back to School

It's back to school time again...for YOU!

Neurologists agree that when it comes to your brain, you must use it or lose it. And crosswords and Sudoku just don't cut it anymore.

To retain your memory, verbal skills, and reasoning and processing skills, you must exercise your brain -- just like you exercise your body. Think of it as brain training! Multiple studies have shown that embracing challenging intellectual activities builds new neural pathways and is associated with a lower risk of cognitive decline and dementia later in life.

It's never too late to build extra cognitive reserve through education. I went back to school at age 59 and am still at it today -- and my thinking and problem solving skills have returned to the speed of my 21-year college self.

Now that the kids and grandkids are back in school, it's your turn! Need ideas? What were you obsessed with in childhood that you never pursued? What do you regret not ever trying to learn or do? Now is the time. You're not getting any younger.

And if you're intimidated to try something new, remember that learning new things always catapults you out of your comfort zone. Approach it with a beginner's mind. Open up to your innate curiosity and explore the possibilities!

Top picks for cognitive vitality?

• learn the skills needed for a new career
• study a new language
• learn to play an instrument
• write a book
• learn a new art or craft
• take a writing or public speaking class
• take a dancing class (yes, this is VERY brain challenging)

But Where?

• Sign-up for an adult education course at your local recreation center or YMCA.
• Enroll in a class at your local two or four-year college -- audit or be brave and earn credits towards that degree you've always wanted.

While you can't beat the collective energy created from a room full of people learning together, you don't have to attend in-person. Don't want to get off the couch? Enroll in an online class.

• Get personalized online course recommendations at Class Central -- hundreds of options in every imaginable interest area.
• Explore certificate and free-to-audit courses from schools like Yale and Stanford at Coursera.

Your brain is designed to take on new challenges and embark on uncharted territory. Challenge yourself today to learn something new, something tough. You'll not only keep your brain firing at youthful speed, you'll be giving yourself a healthy self-esteem boost as well.

DISCLAIMER: This information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended nor implied to supplement or replace professional medical treatment, advice, and/or diagnosis. This information is to be used at your own risk based on your own judgement. See complete disclaimer.