Posted by jerrympls on May 22, 2005, at 1:19:10
In reply to Re: ECT failure? » jerrympls, posted by 4WD on May 21, 2005, at 21:52:50
> > > After being a nurse and helping other people, it's very theraputic to think I might help someone here even if it's just to add support. I wouldn't even consider recommending a med combo. I leave that to the med experts. Right Ed, and SLS, Chemist, to name a few. Fondly, Phillipa
> >
> > hey! I want to be a med expert! (heheeh)
> >
> > Actually I studied biological psychology in college. Perhaps I should post more. ;-)
> >
> > Jerry
> >
>
> Ah ha! Then tell me, can I change the size of my hippocampus by thinking about it i.e. visualization?
>
> Marsha
> >
>
>Short answer: Yes. Recent studies have shown that "an old dog CAN learn new tricks..." - not that I am calling you a dog :-) . I recently read a Journal study that found proof that adults DO continue to make new connections in the brain - growing neurons/axons - new communication pathways = increase size. Visualization is a powerful powerful tool. I learned it in my music studies. I learned that I could "practice" my music performances in my head and that doing so would translate to my kinesthetic "memory" = meaning, visualizing myself playing a music passage over and over - visualizing my body in balance, the music notes, etc. was practically the same as if I were doing it physically. I didn't learn this technique overnight, but I did learn it. This also translates easily to meditation and other forms of deep relaxation. The journal article went on to explain that by using techniques like these, the brain is exercised to stay fit and grow/expand and ward off dementia. Even by doing things like crosswords, playing cards, etc would help and does help.
I wish I could find the source so you knew I wasn't making this up - but trust me. I've used visualization techniques to get me through depression. It's exercise for the brain - and it can be and is it comparable to a physical workout that keeps muscles strong, lean and fit.
So, yes.
Jerry :-)
poster:jerrympls
thread:495223
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20050521/msgs/501046.html