Sunday Brain Workout

Improve your brain health in 5 minutes or less

“I’m too busy,” is no excuse. Everyone can find 5 extra minutes.

Use your non-dominant hand

Mix it up a little, for your brain’s sake. Performing everyday tasks in different ways than you're used to can give your brain a ‘jump start’ and spur a cascade of brain reactions that may permanently improve your brain structure and function. Exploring new avenues is not only fun, but also may promote neuroplasticity and neurogenesis: Your brain cells (neurons) and connections between cells have the capability to change (neuroplasticity) throughout life. What’s more, even as an adult, you can grow new brain cells (neurogenesis).

In 2024, Italian neuroscientists recruited more than forty right handed volunteers. The researchers measured brain waves (electroencephalogram, EEG) of volunteers while they performed basic tasks with dominant and non dominant hands. The scientists discovered: by switching up hand usage, even though the tasks were identical, brain waves were worlds apart. Different brain networks (connections between far flung brain regions), with various levels of integration, were recruited depending on whether the left or right hand was engaged. 

What you can do in 5 minutes or less: Brush your teeth and comb your hair with your non-dominant hand (your left hand if you're a righty).

Want to learn more about adult neurogenesis, check out https://brain2mind.substack.com/p/can-grown-ups-grow-new-neurons 

For another 18 brain workouts, check out https://brain2mind.substack.com/p/19-brain-workouts