Author: Kathy Marshack

Would you like to decrease memory loss? No doubt you would. Losing memory is sadly a product of aging, but studies show that there are two simple things you can do to lessen your odds of memory loss.

The Mayo Clinic released a study about how combining computer use and moderate exercise can lessen memory loss in older individuals. The key is to combine these two activities because you’re exercising both the mind and the body. Focusing on the 70 to 93 age group, the study showed that those who were not physically active and not active on the computer, 21.1% were cognitively normal while 37.6% showed signs of mild cognitive impairment. On the other hand, those who are moderately active and used the computer, 36% were normal and 18.3% had signs of mild cognitive impairment.

So, if you are interested in keeping your brain healthy, get active mentally and physically. It is important to note that being mentally active is not limited to computer use. Any activity that is mentally stimulating is beneficial for the brain. Choose physical and mental activities that you enjoy.

Take care of your brain. It is a valuable asset! For more information on the mind and body connection, visit Holistic Health.

In January, I wrote a blog discussing the dangers associated with playing sports like football and soccer. Dr. Daniel Amen, a well-known physician and psychiatrist, has been speaking out about these dangers for years. What is the reason? Head injuries related to contact sports can cause dementia, depression, memory loss, and encephalopathy.

This topic has been recently exposed in the NFL. There are now 2,000 players suing the NLF stating that they were not aware of the dangers and that they were deliberately hidden from them by the NFL. Ray Easterling, who played for the Atlanta Falcon’s, committed suicide in April after years of suffering from dementia. His widow, Mary Ann, is holding the NFL responsible stating that they could have done more to protect her husband’s health. This lawsuit is intended to change how the NFL handles this vital information. Those suing hope that it will help those who are in need of medical attention and make the game safer in the future. For more on this breaking news read 2,000 Players Unit in Suing NFL Over Head Injuries.

I also encourage you to view this interview with Dr. Daniel Amen – especially if you have kids playing sports. He speaks about concessions and their long-term effects on the brain.

Creativity is often linked to artistic ability, but that is not necessarily the case. If you are an entrepreneur, you have shown yourself to be a creative person regardless of any artistic talent. In fact, creativity can be an important key in keeping your business successful and your enthusiasm for your work running strong.

Creativity can be used to improve or improvise a variety of situations. Instead of being stuck with one single method of approaching a situation, being creative allows you to look at many options. By opening your mind to different options, you are opening your horizons and may be surprised with the end result. It may be a way that you have never looked at a problem before.

If you have an good idea, sometimes you just need to run with it. It may or may not work, but allowing your creative juices to flow will only enhance your entrepreneurial abilities. This may be a new way of thinking for you, but with practice and time you can improve your creativity skills. Think of it like a muscle. A muscle has to be trained over time and be used regularly to be of use. Creativity is a never ending process, so do not get discouraged if a situation does not have the intended result. A failed creative thought or idea may not work for a particular situation, but it may for another one down the line.

So, think outside the box. Challenge yourself. You’ll be pleasantly surprised.

Would you like assistance in unleashing your creativity? Consider setting up an appointment with a business coach. If you live in the Portland, Oregon/Vancouver, Washington area, please contact my office for an in depth consultation.

Even though the month of April will be ending very soon, I wanted to remind all of you that April is Autism Awareness Month. The Autism Society has been celebrating this since the 1970’s. Some of the latest statistics are staggering. With an increase of 10% in the last 40 years, 1 in 88 American children are being diagnosed with a form of autism. Studies also find that more boys are being diagnosed than girls, a ratio of 5 to 1.

Even though there is still much to uncover about this puzzling neurodevelopmental disorder there is also much that has been accomplished. For instance, while it is still unclear as to what causes autism, great strides have been made in regards to treating autism. One that I have found to be particularly interesting was the use of electronics like iPads.

We also have seen many “heroes” who have made it their aim to do what they can to make a difference. I recently wrote about Joseph Sheppard who has been diagnosed with a high functioning form of autism called Asperger Syndrome. He is working to give people with ASD a better future. This is just one example of the many. There are doctors, teachers, parents, and many others who are using their circumstances to make a difference.

As another Autism Awareness comes and goes, think about all the people who are working hard for this disorder. If you know any of them personally, take a moment to thank them for their hard work. If your circumstances allow, look into how you can make a difference. Every little bit helps!

There is a misconception that drug addiction affects mostly young people in our society, but that is not the case. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration reports that drug addiction is escalating in the older community. The number of older people using illegal drugs in a year doubled between 2002 and 2007. (Read Depression, Anxiety Ups Addiction Among Older Americans)

What are the some of the common reasons why older people are turning to drugs and alcohol? For some, it may be due to depression or anxiety. Depression or anxiety could stem from the many changes that occur during this time period. Retirement, economic struggles, health problems or the realization that old age in setting in can impact your outlook. Whatever the reason may be, drugs and alcohol are not the answer.

Addiction leads to many negative consequences. First off, it will never solve the problem, it will only aggravate it. It will also affect your physical health and emotional health. Relationships with family and friends are often strained and sometimes ruined.

If you find yourself struggling with addiction, speak to a doctor immediately. You will also want to see a therapist who deals with substance abuse. Identifying the root cause of your addiction will help lead you to recovery.

For more information visit Alcohol Recovery or contact my office to set up an appointment.

Are you an entrepreneur? Have you ever experience “burnout?” The entrepreneurial lifestyle is a demanding one. Of course, there are many rewards, but if not kept in check, this lifestyle can lead you down a very unhealthy path, emotionally and physically.

Since entrepreneurs are driven to succeed, it is easy to push through without stopping to evaluate if you’re on the path to self-destruction. Regardless of how you feel at this moment, if you are an entrepreneur, I encourage you to stop and honestly evaluate yourself. Take note of the signs that you may be burned out.

Signs of Burnout:

• You are usually creative, but instead you feel like you have hit a wall
• Difficulty concentrating
• Lack of enthusiasm or drive for your work
• A cranky, negative attitude that won’t disappear
• Hypertension
• Trouble sleeping or insomnia
• Chronic headaches or stomach problems
• Family and friends voicing concerns for your well-being

If you see yourself in this list, then it is time to take a time out. It may be as simple as taking a few hours out of your work week for a hobby or time with your family. How about scheduling in a long weekend or a vacation? Whatever you need to do, do it immediately. Success is wonderful, but not a the expense of your mental or physical health. If taking a break does not relieve your symptoms, then you may need to get the assistance of a mental health care professional. There could be deeper issues that need to be addressed. Doing so will be worth your while.

For more information, visit Entrepreneurial Life and Managing Stress.