Only a small percentage of brainpower is used, but there is more available

October 13th is National Train Your Brain Day. This yearly recognition is held as a way of encouraging people to expand and exercise their brain and use more of its capacity. Many scientists believe that since only a small percentage of the brain is used, there is room for expanded learning and knowledge within everyone.

Training your mind at Cummings

“There are many different ways to train your mind and improve your cognitive skills,” said Annette Vézina, Wellness Centre Supervisor at the Cummings Centre. “Brains continue to develop throughout our lives. The functional restructuring of brain cells means that it is never too late to learn new information, change thought processes and boost brain power.”

The Cummings Centre recognizes the importance of training the mind and, as a result, offers various ‘brain training’ courses and workshops designed to stimulate the brain and help participants get the most out of that vital organ.

Cummings Centre member Judi Fish found brain training at Cummings Centre of great benefit, registering once again for a multi-part workshop. “I feel that by exercising my brain it helps with my cognition and memory,” said Fish. “By participating in this course I keep a healthy brain by exercising my brain muscles just like I exercise my body muscles. It is also a fun creative way to learn.”

Brain-related courses

Ongoing brain-related courses at the Cummings Centre include The Brain Workout, each Wednesday through October 23 and Meditation for Brain Health, Tuesdays through December 17.

A Body and Brain Workshop, combining physical movement with a mental focus or hand-eye coordination task, will take place on Tuesday November 26 between 2 – 3:30 pm at the Centre. Cost is $10 for the session.

In addition, Cummings Centre members can access an online self-study interactive course entitled Pillars of a Healthy Brain. Learn how brain-healthy activities such as cognitive stimulation, social engagement, nutrition, sleep and self-care, physical activity, stress management and mindfulness can help you to maximize your cognitive reserve. The online course costs $60.

The Cummings Centre’s mission is to empower and enhance the quality of life of adults age 50 and over by providing dynamic and innovative programs, social services, and volunteer opportunities in a vibrant, respectful, inclusive and compassionate environment. Building on its Jewish heritage, Cummings embraces people from all ethnic and socio-economic backgrounds.

As the hub of Montreal’s 50+ community, the Centre touches the lives of 10,000 people on an annual basis. In addition to its main campus at 5700 Westbury Avenue in Montreal, programs are offered at several off-site locations including the West Island, Cote Saint-Luc, St.Laurent, Westmount, Chomedey and Florida.

For more information, please contact us by phone at 514-343-3510, online at www.cummingscentre.org or in person at 5700 Westbury Avenue.