Many boomers are concerned about loosing their mental faculties. What activities are you involved in that will help to keep your brain agile and sharp?
While crossword puzzles, reading, and board games can be interesting, I’d like to challenge you to consider stretching yourself to a whole new level, through music. If you’re looking for the ultimate way to stimulate your brain, learn to play a musical instrument. Neuroscientists are beginning to show that playing a musical instrument can be compared to a full-body workout. Studying music is like learning a new language. It takes daily practice, repetition and a lot of patience, but the rewards are amazingly gratifying.
I was in my late 50s when I began taking piano lessons with Kristijan. I started from scratch and didn’t have any unrealistic expectations. I just had a personal desire to infuse extra beauty and pleasure into my life. I don’t have a natural gift for music, but I welcomed the massive learning curve: reading the notes, translating the notes from the page to the keys, getting my fingers to cooperate on the keyboard, learning the scales, coordinating the damper pedal, comprehending music theory, and eventually playing the piece the way it was intended. Slow, steady progress. Measure by measure, line by line. It may take weeks, but what an exceptional feeling of accomplishment when you can play your piece with confidence!
For me, playing the piano has many fringe benefits. When sitting in front of the keys, I must become detached from other things that are going on in my life. In this way, playing is a form of therapy—a reprieve from daily responsibilities. It also helps to create harmony in my life. Learning my favorite jazz and blues pieces, as well as classical selections by the masters, makes me feel joyful and grateful.
Can you imagine your brain waking up from a long snooze and being forced to jump through hoops and perform like an Olympic gymnast? That’s my brain on piano. Research has demonstrated that learning to play a musical instrument stimulates the brain, improves memory and abstract reasoning. If you already play, consider learning another instrument. Be challenged and entertained. Improve your mental faculties through playing music.
Consider This
In order to get the best results out of the learning experience, it’s imperative that you find the ideal music instructor. I think the reason I experienced success in learning to play the piano is because my teacher was amazing. He was laid back and encouraging, but held high expectations.
Four Steps to Nourish, Transform and Flourish
• This week set a loving intention to investigate your options for playing a musical instrument. Reach out to friends and music studios, and research virtual offerings.
• Begin by acknowledging that it’s never too late to start playing the instrument of your choice.
• How will daily practice keep your brain agile and sharp, and elevate you to a whole new level?
• Close your eyes and visualize how this lifestyle change can prepare you for your amazing second half.
Need help?
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In love, peace and health--
Your feminine glow guide,
T. Kari Mitchell, M.Ed.
Motivational Speaker
Certified Holistic Health Coach
Lifestyle120.com
When your spirit is nourished, your inner light produces an outer glow reflecting your beauty and truth.