I have begun reading Brain Rules: 12 Principles for Surviving and Thriving at Work, Home, and School, by John Medina. I have made it to chapter 8 but thought I should start writing down my thoughts on the various chapters. I am also participating in a Brain Rules discussion group that originated on Plurk.

Brain Rules is a book that looks at 12 Rules, areas that scientist study about the brain. The book takes a look at what research says about the brain and also suggests areas for further research. A running theme throughout the book is the implications for business and school. While reading this I frequently reflect on my own learning, my kids, former classrooms and my current office environment.

Chapter 1: Exercise

Exercise affects the brain in positive ways. This seems obvious to me if you take care of your body you take care of your mind. What surprised me was the research to back this up.

… A lifetime of exercise can result in a sometimes astonishing elevation in cognitive performance, compared with those that are sedentary. Pg 14

…Such exercise [aerobic 30 min 2-3 times a week] lowers your odds of getting the disease [Alzheimer’s] by more then 60 %. Pg 16

…add a 20 min walk each day, and you cut your risk of having a stroke – one of the leading causes of mental disability in the elderly – by 57 percent. Pg 16

The reason, aerobic exercise increases blood flow to the brain, this gives it the glucose it needs, the brain uses about 20 % of all the body’s energy. It also provides oxygen and waste removal which helps eliminate toxic build up. A well fed brain works better, faster and can repair itself.

Personally I exercise at the gym 3 times a week and try to walk, weather and sunlight permitting, the other days. I frequently find myself taking a walk around school if I have trouble concentrating or switching gears. I do notice that lack of exercise does affect my mood and performance.

I know that schools around here have removed recess time and even PE so that more math and English can be added to the curriculum. Maybe this research will be the push to get it back into the curriculum. In fact around here they even talk about extending the school day for more classroom time. This would prevent kids from participating in after school sports. We talk about exercise and kids to reduce obesity maybe we should also mention increase cognitive activity as an incentive as well.

Please share your thoughts on Chapter 1.