“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
Great ideas Marc! I always encourage people to paint the first layers of an intuitive painting with the non dominant hand! It makes them less stressed about the result and it s also .. great fun!
I’ve tried this a few times. It’s surprising how much we do in autopilot.
Another thing I focus on is the order I put clothes on. Try putting on socks before underwear. Put a different leg into your pant legs first. How do put on your shirt? Which shoe do you put on first? Do you put your left shoe on the same way as you do your right? Which hand do you open doors with?
Have you ever picked up your coffee with your off hand?