We need to pay just as much attention to our learning hygiene as we do to our physical hygiene. We keep our bodies clean (most of the time), and some of us work to keep in shape (sort of). Similar effort needs to be spent keeping our brain and body in condition to learn. You can’t learn anything if basic physiologic needs are unmet or compromised.
Boot camp for your brain
Most people need six to eight hours of sleep daily to effectively function. The right amount of sleep for your body is not optional. Aside from being pretty goofy, people who lack sufficient sleep demonstrate clearly defined phenomena including:
- Daytime drowsiness
- Decreased ability to function
- Heightened sensitivity to pain
- Inability to concentrate
- Slowed reaction times
- Perceptual distortions
- Irritability
- Anxiety
This is far from an all-inclusive list. The lesson here is, since you know you need sleep, plan it. Protect your sleep time as much as you treasure your play time. Develop smart sleep habits.
Hooray for exercise!
Physical activity is a great stress reliever, and dealing with stress allows us to direct more valuable energy to learning. Physiologic and psychological stresses confront us all. Someone coughs in our face, and we need to fight off disease. Our boss is a mini dictator. All of our instructors think their class is the most important item in the universe. And don’t get us started on the family issues. Sound familiar?
Daily exercise moderates the effects of prolonged stress, makes you feel better, increases your energy and ability to cope, and, most importantly for us, dramatically increases your ability to concentrate and learn!
Don’t forget: Thirty to forty-five minutes of exercise a day earns colossal dividends.
You want to select types of exercise that appeal to you and that strengthen, increase flexibility, and enhance cardiovascular functioning. Running, biking, and swimming are obvious choices. Less intuitive options include yoga (one of the best!) and brisk walking. Your school or work may have a fitness center where you can use equipment and receive guidance at a reduced rate.
One easy and convenient method to boost your activity is to add steps to your day:
- Take the stairs instead of the elevator
- Park in the parking spot furthest from the entrance rather than close by
- Go talk to someone at work instead of calling or e-mailing, as it helps build relationships
- Walk during work breaks
- Walk, don’t drive, whenever possible
- Wear a pedometer to measure your progress
Editor’s note: This excerpt is adapted from our new book, Stressed Out About Pharmacology, which is set to release next month. Every Wednesday until its release, we will feature a new section.
December 21st, 2010 at 4:36 pm
I want to thank you for the time you have made in composing this post. I am hoping the same top-grade article from you in the upcoming as well. In fact your creative writing abilities has inspired me to get my own blog now. Truly the blogging is spreading its wings rapidly. Your write up is a fine example of it.
December 21st, 2010 at 7:39 pm
Extraordinary post.
December 23rd, 2010 at 10:57 am
An astonishing article, I just given this onto a colleague who was doing a little analysis on this. And he in fact purchased me lunch because I discovered it for him..
. So let me rephrase that: Thankx for the treat! But yeah Thnx for spending the time to discuss this, I feel strongly about it and love learning more on this topic. If possible, as you gain expertise, would you mind updating your blog with more information? It is extremely helpful for me. Two thumb up for this post!
December 24th, 2010 at 12:44 am
It’s unusual for me to discover something on the web that is as entertaining and fascinating as what you’ve got here. Your page is lovely, your graphics are great, and what’s more, you use source that are relevant to what you’re talking about. You are definitely one in a million, great job!
December 24th, 2010 at 1:00 pm
I would like to thnkx for the time you have made in composing this post. I am hoping the same top-quality blogpost from you in the upcoming as well. In fact your creative writing abilities has inspired me to get my own blog now. Really the blogging is spreading its wings rapidly. Your write up is a good example of it.
December 25th, 2010 at 12:42 am
It’s unusual for me to discover something on the internet that’s as entertaining and intriguing as what you’ve got here. Your page is sweet, your graphics are outstanding, and what’s more, you use source that are relevant to what you are talking about. You are certainly one in a million, great job!
December 25th, 2010 at 1:18 pm
Wow, a helpful article buddy. Thankx for sharing! Unfortunately I’m having problem with ur RSS feed. Don’t know why Fail to subscribe. Is there anyone else experiencing same rss issue? Anyone who can assist please reply. Thanks in advance
December 29th, 2010 at 6:50 am
You’re not the average blog writer, man. You certainly have something important to contribute to the net. Such a good blog. I’ll revisit again for more.
January 4th, 2011 at 2:46 pm
There are times that i dont read more than two lines but i think you have a unique blog. Cheers !
January 5th, 2011 at 4:04 am
I believe you have produced some truly interesting points. Not as well many people would actually think about it the direction you just did. I am truly impressed that there is so much about this subject that has been uncovered and you did it so nicely, with so considerably class. Topnotch one, man! Truly wonderful things right here. Wishing you Happy New Year 2011!
January 5th, 2011 at 11:18 am
This is my first time i visit here. I found so many useful stuff in your website especially its discussion. From the a lot of comments on your articles, I guess Im not the only one receiving the many satisfaction right here! keep up a good job.
January 5th, 2011 at 11:43 am
This is my first time i visit here. I found so many useful stuff in your website especially its discussion. From the a lot of comments on your articles, I guess Im not the only one receiving the many satisfaction right here! keep up a good job.
January 5th, 2011 at 11:21 pm
Great blogger, Thnkx for publishing the prestigious material. I found it useful. Kind regards !!
January 6th, 2011 at 12:38 am
You are not the average blog author, man. You certainly have something powerful to add to the net. Such a great blog. I’ll revisit again for more. Wishing you Happy New Year 2011!
January 7th, 2011 at 1:15 am
Hello, did you know your webpage was linked to from the Digg homepage?
January 7th, 2011 at 5:35 am
There is no one good food as acai berry for weight lose.
January 7th, 2011 at 5:57 am
P90X Workout schedule is really very helpful for toned your body and muscle building.
January 8th, 2011 at 4:44 am
I was a daily smoker for 25+ years. I have been using my ecig since mid-December 2008. By January I was back in the gym and execising with ease, my sense of smell returned, and I felt like a new person. Since then, my treadmill time improves by the week and I am thinking about participating in my first marathon – EVER!! This would not be possible – if I hadn’t taken a chance on this new technology. The product I purchased was of good quality and with basic care – has lasted into my 6th month and saved me (estimating) $500, easily – so far – since I no longer purchase cigarettes.
January 10th, 2011 at 9:23 am
The reverse phone look up is the most vital way to trace the unwanted calls and the people across the world have been very focused about this technique
January 11th, 2011 at 7:54 am
Happy New Year! Thank you so much for this! I havent been this moved by a post for quite some time! You have got it, whatever that means in blogging. Well, You’re certainly somebody that has something to say that people should hear. Keep up the good work. Keep on inspiring the people!