THE 411: PREVENT SUMMER BRAIN DRAIN
Summer’s on its way and you’re ready! Before you pull out the swimsuit and suntan lotion, keep in mind the ‘Summer Brain Drain.’ Summer Brain Drain is that feeling in the fall when it takes a while to get back into the groove of classes and maybe even having to relearn information. According to a study by Dr. Harris Cooper, professor of psychology at the University of Missouri-Columbia, students lose one to three months worth of learning over the summer when their minds are not intellectually stimulated on a regular basis. Here a few tips to keep your brain in full
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1. MyBrain.com – Get on the Net. Although it’s not the most mind-stimulating activity, every little bit counts. Try checking out different Web sites that might offer new information that would be interesting to you.
2. Dust off an old novel – Remember that book you always wanted to read but never had the time? Here’s your chance to read a few pages every night and even finish it.
3. Write a novel – So maybe you don’t have the time to write a novel but how about keeping a journal or sending a postcard to a friend. Just write something!
4. Parlez-vous Français? – Me neither, but summer’s a great time to learn. With three months on your hands why not try to learn a little French or any other langue for that matter.
5. Texas Count ‘Em – Play games that you like that keep your mind thinking like poker and Blackjack. Games that have numbers and counting involved tend to be the most effective. |
Michael Grady, Ph.D., professor of educational studies in Saint Louis University’s College of Public Service says it best, “Challenging your brain is a lot like lifting weights to build muscles. If you don’t use it, you lose it.” Have a safe and smart summer!