17-Mar-2011

Student Counsel

Keep the Brain Cells Young

Life offers so many opportunities to learn. The most successful and happy among us never stop their quest to understand and view the world in a new way. In Zen teachings, it’s called Beginner’s Mind—a state of being that allows you to stay fresh and young. There are many ways to stay active and alert, so keep a few things in mind as you go about your day.

First, think of something you do every day, like washing your hair or taking out the trash. Is there a new way you can do these simple tasks? Learn about natural, home hair care (like trying a scalp massage or a homemade yogurt hair conditioning treatment). When you drop the trash at the curb, stop to chat with a neighbor and find out something you didn’t know about her. Look for ways to learn something new about the culture you live in and the people you see every day. Stay a “forever” student and keep the old brain cells firing for years to come!

Recommended Read: Zen Mind, Beginner's Mind by Shunryu Suzuki