Let me explain this in terms that you and I can understand. When we get exposed to a new image, be it a picture, word or new concept, the brain will establish a new pathway for that image. When we get re-exposed this pathway is reinforced. Nothing new - we all know that repetition is the mother of memory. This is why we repeat whatever it is that we are trying to learn (mental or physical) until it becomes ingrained into our brain. From a brain standpoint, more and more pathways are created so that not only solid memory superhighway is created but massive tributaries so that even if the main highway is closed down, there are lots of back roads to get you to the destination.
This is interesting because this is also how addiction works and is so difficult to overcome. Once a neuronal pathway is established there are many many paths and many many new nerves created to go down that line. We also have learned that once a pathway is ingrained in the brain, we are more inclined to travel down that path, whether it is the path of a harmful addiction, a self-defeating behavior or a positive good habit.
In a an excellent article entitled The Battle in Our Brains By Catherine Keddington Arveseth, she explains:
"...In this information age when messages, images, and information are coming at us almost faster than we can receive them, our brains are creating new neural pathways to accommodate the input. The first time we see an image on a screen (we’re not talking about pornography here, although it does apply) – like a blog page, a news feed, texts, or Facebook – our brain creates a new neural pathway to process that image. It is the same with new sounds or any stimuli to the senses, but let’s use the visual image for this discussion.
Input always travels the path of least resistance. So the second time we see the new image, it will travel the same route. And before long, the new neural pathway has been stimulated enough to “desire” of itself continued activation. A habit is born.
After that, when the brain is not currently occupied, we long for that image. That is why we constantly check our phones or email. That is why, when we have a free moment, we click onto a favorite blog, check Facebook, and tweets, or any other source of input we frequent. Without realizing it, we have begun to crave these places of input, hunger for them, to the point where they can surreptitiously dominate our time."
Because we live in a world of constant and fast paced stimulation to the brain, we begin to crave for constant input and information. Add to this toxicity and poor nutrition (many of these toxic chemicals are known as excitotoxins), then we can begin to understand why our children can't focus and our adults are literally losing their minds.
She goes on, "Recent studies have also shown that when our minds are over-stimulated, we begin to make decisions without considering the consequences. Much of the time, these quick decisions are not the best ones for us. An abundance of “information” prompts reactionary responses and elevates feelings of anxiety." Many of the games and electronic entertainment condition us to make lightening fast responses and decisions. As a result, we are distract from much needed pondering time – time when our minds can reinforce more intuitive and spiritual pathways.
So this may all be fine and interesting, but let me give you something concrete that you can do.
1) Putting the Good things In
Popular health guru, Jack LaLanne put it succinctly: If it comes from God, eat it. If if comes from Man, don't. Apples - Yes. Doritos - No. In addition, take Vitamin D-3 - 5,000 IU daily. If you don't feel energetic and healthy take 10,000 IU daily. Fish oil (so necessary for proper brain function) should be taken about 1,000 mg daily. Eat fish as part of a healthy diet. Take a whole foods vitamin mineral supplement daily, such as Earth's Nutrition or Bountiful Blend from Western Botanicals. Pomegranate juice is one of the highest antioxidant there is and greatly benefits the brain, memory and your ability to think. Drink 8 oz daily.
2) Getting the Bad Things Out
The liver is the main organ for cleansing toxins from the blood stream. Our Liver Gallbladder Formula is a good place to start. You may also consider fresh cilantro - which is referred to "the poor man chelation therapy" for getting out toxic heavy metals from the body. Sweating is a great way to remove toxicity from our bodies through the skin - sweating in sauna or from a good workout is "good medicine". Also do not overlook removing toxins from the bowel with Colon Cleanse and through the kidneys with our Kidney Bladder Formula.
3) Programming
Our programming within the brain can be improved in large part by taking following the recommendations as listed above. For Alzheimer Disease, prevention research has proven that a daily crossword puzzle is very helpful to keep the mind sharp and active. In addition, minimizing television and computers and particularly electronic games. These all condition the brain for rapid fire thinking and promote quick response decision making, which as we've discussed earlier are often not the best.
One way to change the brain from one that is constantly racing and stuck in a rapid fire mode is by reading the scriptures. When you expose your brain repeatedly to images or sounds(if you are listening) of symbolic and deep intent, it will training your brain to ponder, contemplate, and discuss with others the intent and deeper means that can be found therein. As you find your mind contemplating the scriptural message, your mind will begin to slow and steady rather than being so jerky and disjointed. One method that many find effective is studying with a notepad handy. As thoughts or impressions arise, jot them down. These notes can be reviewed, then patterns, themes and trends can emerge. Your notes are not to be a commentary of what you think a particular verse is saying, but rather feelings and thoughts that come to you as it pertains to your life during your study time.
While a study of scriptural text may be effective for the adult mind, most children are not likely to have the maturity or discipline to undergo such an effort. One activity that may be of benefit is listening to classical music through headphones. Music that is interesting but is not reliant on a driving or heavy beat (like much of the popular music of the day) can allow the mind to focus and contemplate. Enjoying favorite compositions repeatedly allows the mind to unravel the layers of music and discover the nuances beyond the melody. And of course, avoidance of the super stimulating media is important to calm the hyperactive and alert mind.
We truly are engaged in a battle for our minds. By taking supplements that support the brain, working to release toxins that are being held within the body and engaging in activities that support and reinforce a calmer mental climate, we can experience better mental health for ourselves and those we love.
Blessings,
Dr. Kyle Christensen
Western Botanicals, Inc. February 2012
We truly are engaged in a battle for our minds. By taking supplements that support the brain, working to release toxins that are being held within the body and engaging in activities that support and reinforce a calmer mental climate, we can experience better mental health for ourselves and those we love.
Blessings,
Dr. Kyle Christensen
Western Botanicals, Inc. February 2012
