Tactical Tip # 11: Brain Breakfast

Studies say eating a good breakfast makes for a better day, but reading the comics also gives a boost.  A habit I learned from my Dad, I rely on Blondie, Zits, Mutts and Peanuts to dial my brain to the sunny side of the street.  As Charles Schultz said, "Life is like a 10 - speed bicycle.  Most of us have gears we never use."  Being in a good frame of mind helps us navigate bumps in the road.

For those of us worried about about mid-life brains, here a reminder of how to stress LESS.

L = LAUGH - in addition to the comics, consider joining the Laughter Yoga movement.  The cardio, mental & social benefits of laughing clears our brains, too. 

E = EXPAND - break out of mental ruts by learning something new, teaching others, and considering contrary points of view.  Its like internal travel.

S = SWEAT - Rigorous exercise keeps our brains sharp - and you may even find an answer to that nagging problem when you stop ruminating and start moving.

S = SOCIALIZE - don't give up on finding the best in people.  There are cognitive benefits to interacting with others.  Women's friendships can be considered our secret weapons against getting brittle.

Say "nuts' to irritations - decide to be your best self, starting with the comics.