Now We're Getting Somewhere

What Parkinson's Teaches Us About The Brain

This is a fantastic new discovery. Rigorous exercise (pushing beyond comfort) can prevent Parkinson's. Some might say "duh"; we have known in our hearts for years that exercise is good for us. This new research makes it all the more real. It expands what we intuitively know (exercise is good for both the mind and the body) and entices us to take true care of ourselves. In addition, it shows us the power of rigor and effort (above comfort and simple movement).

One of the most dreaded and feared health conditions can be averted with persistent and determined discipline. Of course, we don't know as fact that Alzheimer's and other neurodegenerative conditions can also be prevented through aggressive and persistent attention to living a healthy lifestyle but then again, we already know that exercise and social interaction are preventative factors for our worst fear. Yes, the mechanisms are far from clear. However, brilliant minds will uncover this in time. The bottom line is we do not need to understand mechanism; we only really need to know, understand and then ongoingly act in line with our wisdom.

Herein lies the challenge: Can we honor ourselves enough to care for our bodies and minds in ways that will give us health, happiness, and longevity? The challenge is being able to do for ourselves what we know we should do.