Ask the Expert
Brain Fitness: Why is the brain getting so much more attention lately?

For years, we have been encouraged to stay physically healthy as much as possible. Now, we are receiving similar recommendations about brain health and there is a lot you can do to engage your brain on a daily basis.

Research is showing more and more that the brain is continuously changing and improving itself. Science is unlocking many of the mysteries of the brain. Although we do not have all the answers yet, research is showing that physical brain change occurs every time we learn something new. This ability for continuous physical, chemical and functional brain change is known as "brain plasticity" or "neuroplasticity".

In our day-to-day lives, we often rely on our memories. However, the ability to remember may change after undergoing brain tumour treatment. Brain Fitness, may help enhance your memory skills, concentration, organize information or help you compensate for memory impairments in your daily life.

Whether you may have the effects of "chemo brain" or may have difficulties with concentration and recall due to a benign brain tumour, there are some brain fitness tips that may help in coping with memory or cognitive changes:

• Exercise your brain: Try crossword puzzles, number games, brain teasers, visual illusions take up a new hobby or master a new skill.
• Stay organized: Use calendars or planners to keep on track, make lists or use a chart board or wipe board in your kitchen – develop a system of reminders.
• "Neurobics": Use your brain in non-routine ways (ie. If you are right handed, try brushing your teeth with your left hand every morning).
• Understanding what influences your memory problems: Schedule difficult tasks when you feel your best.
• Stress-relief techniques: Visualizations, meditation, yoga or pilates.
• Stay organized: Use calendars or planners to keep on track.
• Food For Thought: Brains work best when you eat well-balanced meals.
• Use humour to have a good laugh: Read a new joke or watch a comedy.

For more tips, information and resources on brain fitness, visit our website at www.braintumour.ca and go to "Get Info". Click on the Resource Links page to view the "Brain Fitness" section.

Janic Gorayeb is the Health Information Specialist at Brain Tumour Foundation of Canada and has a degree in Sociology and a second degree in Gerontology. Janic recently attended Memory Training courses in Prague, Czech Republic hosted by the Czech Memory Training Centre.