I AM GETTING DUMBER BECAUSE MY BRAIN CELLS ARE DYING

It is true that brain cells die as we age. Brain cells die and new cells are born throughout our lives. According to Ilchi Lee research for many years people have assumed that, barring excessive drinking during college, brain cells cash in their chips at a higher rate as we get into the retirement years. But as it turns out, that is not true either. It appears that we lose brain cells at a consistent rate throughout life, owing to causes that range from stress and nutritional deficiencies to environmental toxins. Also, some neuroscientists now believe that brain cell death may be a part of the brain’s learning process. The loss of some cells paves the way for new connections to develop as we learn, part of the sculpting of the brain that occurs when the brain remains active and constantly learning.

Years, brain scientists were certain that the brain could not make new nerve cells to replace lost ones. But in the mid-1990s, researchers began to see evidence that indeed the brain can produce new nerve cells in some areas of the brain related to memory—a process called neuro-genesis. This phenomenon is particularly responsive to regular physical exercise, meaning that working out is not just good for your heart, bones, and muscles, but good for your mind as well. Studies based on the work of Columbia University neurologist Scott Small and Salk Institute neurobiologist Fred Gage suggest that regular exercise delivers more oxygen-rich blood to the brain, as well as a chemical called brain-derived neurotrophicjactor, or BDNF. These factors and others appear to improve memory, learning, and other brain functions.

Perhaps the most exciting discovery is that, like the rest of the body, brain vitality is a “use it or lose it” proposition. A recent study at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine shows that the more stimulating and intellectually challenging we make our lives, the better are our odds of keeping our aging brains vital, sharp, and agile. Just as with muscles, it appears that with lack of use our brains atrophy, failing to create new neural connections and replace dying brain cells.

Older people who follow the traditional path of retirement, sitting on the porch in a rocker and doing little or nothing, are inviting dementia and decline in brain function. By comparison, an enriched environment, as author and brain scientist Marion C. Diamond calls it—one rilled with play, discovery, learning, and challenge—keeps the brain active and constantly producing new connective pathways. This quality, known as neuroplastic-ity, suggests that in the right environment our brains can evolve and change in wondrous wavs throughout our lives.

So much for the idea that old dogs can’t learn new tricks. Not only can they, but they should. Designing vour life so that every day you are learning something new or looking at the world in a new wav not only enhances brain health and mental activity but brings greater delight and satisfaction to living. What’s good for your brain is also good for vour soul.

Read all about Brain Respiration and Dahn Hak.

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