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Brain Agility Program Begins January 14, 2010
The YMCA is opening registration for its Brain Agility class to begin January 14th. This class is receiving outstanding reviews from previous program users. All participants completing the course evaluation form said they recommend the course to others, states Celeste Silva, Director of the YMCA.
Until recently common knowledge was that as we age our brains lose neurons, cells critical to cognitive functioning. However, we now know that, in the absence of any disease or injury, we keep most of the neurons we had at age 20 well into our later life. What does happen is that as the brain ages the interconnections between neurons decrease, leading to cognitive decline. But the story does not end there. We also now know that at any age the neurons can form new interconnections leading to improved cognitive functioning. This ability of the brain is called brain plasticity.
Mental exercise increases blood flow to the brain, an important factor facilitating brain plasticity. Recently developed brain imaging techniques show us quite clearly that when we engage in a mental activity, blood flow increases to those areas of the brain involved with the cognitive functions required by that activity. And this blood flow together with the mental activity can promote new interconnections related to those specific areas and cognitive functions. This helps explain why it is important to exercise a full range of cognitive functions such as memory, attention, logical reasoning, word fluency, and others.
The YMCA in Oroville is offering this Seven-Week Brain Agility Program which can help people maintain and improve cognitive functioning. This program was developed by Peter Moulton, Ph.D., a psychologist in Oregon. The exercises in the class are based on current research which indicates the benefits of doing them. In addition to the exercises, the seven-week program provides presentations on how the brain functions, how it ages, and how cognitive functioning can be improved through nutrition, physical exercise, stress reduction, and other lifestyle changes. Over 90% of those completing the program have indicated improved memory and feelings of being mentally sharper. All have indicated they would recommend the program to others.
The next Brain Agility course begins January 14th. What a great way to start the New Year! Space is limited in this popular class so you will want to register quickly. For more information about YMCA programs, events and building/pool rentals, call 533-9622; visit them on the corner of Oak and Robinson Streets; or check out their website at orovilleymca.org.
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