5 ways to boost your brain

You're always using both hemispheres of the brain. however, depending on whether you're left brain or right brain dominated this will have an effect on the way in which you think.

The left hemisphere is Yang (masculine energy) and controls the right side of the body, verbal thinking, speech and language. If you’re a left brain-er (like my husband, Mark) you’re more likely to think in words and language.

You’ll be logical, rational, analytical, structured, organised, think in abstract terms, and identify patterns and sequencing. You’re likely to be good at math, music and/or languages, reading and writing. It's all in the details.

Careers include; accountants, engineers, lawyers, scientists or working in IT.

If this sounds like you, then there are a number of ways to enhance your creative side:

• Take art classes or another creative hobbie

• Write short stories

• Read non-fiction books or story-telling

• Learn about other cultures

• Explore different meditation styles (you'll likely enjoy Mantra based meditations.)

The right hemisphere is Yin (feminine energy) and controls non-verbal thinking and the left side of the body. As a right brain-er you'll think in images and symbols and activities to do with creativity, intuition, feelings and the arts. Focusing on rhythm and 'the bigger picture'.

Careers include; artists counsellors, psychologists, sociologists, graphic design, childcare workers and healthcare practitioners.

If this sounds more like you, then there are a number of ways to enhance your analytical side:

• Do crosswords, Sudoku or other board games

• Tinker or learn a musical instrument

• Take up a second language

• Listen to songs

• Explore different meditation styles (you'll likely enjoy guided imagery or visualisations)

We are all characteristics of both sides. However, once you've identified how it is that you tend to operate in your world, you can schedule time and activities to boost both.

This'll help to reduce fatigue (your brain needs to rest and recharge too!), increased focus, concentration and memory skills and other intellectual functioning, as well as mental and emotional balance.

As always, balance is the key; to work, rest and play (movement and exercise is also important) and to keeping your learning - fun!

Sara

*It's not about being perfect, it's about having a go.*