Exercise and learning

In a recent article, Gretchen Reynolds of the New York Times summarized some important research. A new study confirms that children think better if they move more. The trend for many schools to reduce the time allowed for recess or cut PT is counterproductive. Play that includes running, chasing and jumping improved children’s ability to think.

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Barbara Jean Conti
Questions to reflect on to feel happier

If you find yourself feeling less than upbeat, thinking of something else can help move you to a better mental or emotional spot. However, at least for me – without a specific focus area, it can be difficult to stop ruminating on whatever is bothering you.

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Barbara Jean Conti
Healthy aging

A recent visit with an elderly relative led me to think about how the choices we make in our younger years play out when we’re older. In this case, a lack of exercise and general activity resulted in a need for physical therapy and a walker this summer. Eating poorly contributed to a loss of strength and some mental confusion. Although my relative really wanted to stay in her home, she couldn’t. Her house was not suitable for aging in place. Also, her small town did not have the level of visiting care services that she needed.

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Barbara Jean Conti
Tapas (the yoga concept, not the food)

In previous posts, I’ve mentioned that both yoga and Pilates are useful practices in conjunction with receiving the Rolf Method of Structural Integration. However, to experience thebenefits of either yoga or Pilates, one has to actually do the practice. Despite knowing that, on Saturday morning I was trying to decide whether going to yoga class would improve my day. I ended up going, had a good class and (not surprisingly) felt much better afterwards both physically and mentally.

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Barbara Jean Conti
Reading “Lean In”

When book club decided to read Lean In by Sheryl Sandberg, I was not that excited. However, I have actually found the book to be very interesting. She discusses research about workplace and home issues that affect everyone, especially women. She has simple and effective suggestions to change old patterns of behavior that hold us back. I would say the advice could apply not only to women but to introverts of both genders.

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Barbara Jean Conti