Memories...-Tara pierce H

For many years, a memory has been thought of as a book on the shelf in a vast library; filed neatly away with its own DDC# to be easily accessed, as a whole, when needed. We now know that each memory is a complex construction beginning with perception. With each experience, experts believe that the hippocampus and the frontal cortex analyze the various sensory inputs and decide if they are worth remembering. Each detail, such as the shape of the book, the color, the smell, the sound it makes as you flip through the pages and how you felt as you read the closing line, is connected to the others through electrical and chemical messengers called neurotransmitters. The resulting memory forms a web-like pattern of cells scattered throughout the brain. Each web is built and rebuilt and is more likely to be retained as long term memory if the information is repeated or used. That is why studying before a test is such a benefit to our final score.

When our memory becomes less effective, especially as we get older, it is not always because of a structural or organic problem but simply as a result of lack of use. Studies of nursing home populations show that when patients are given rewards and challenges they are able to make significant improvements in memory. Other risk factors for memory loss include obesity, major stress in life, anxiety and anger, all of which will eventually wreak havoc on the brain. Life can easily and often throw your lifestyle for a loop. Don't forget to take a minute each day to listen to what you need to regain that balance.

In addition to mental stimulation, what you eat and drink and the quality of your sleep plays a powerful part in restoring good health and mental clarity. Regular physical exercise will increase blood circulation and get more oxygen and nutrients to all parts of the brain as well as Dr. Christopher's Memory Plus Formula. It is a great way to cleanse, re-build and increase circulation to the brain.

Tara Pierce is a Certified Herbalist and Master Herbalist Student at The School of Natural Healing.

Coconut Rice Pudding

1 14oz can whole coconut milk
1/2 cup brown rice, pre-soaked
2 Tbls raw honey or agave
1/8 tsp salt
1 tsp vanilla

12-24 hours before you want to make the pudding, rinse and place rice in a glass bowl and cover with warm water. Add 1 Tbls apple cider vinegar to the soaking water and let sit for at least 12 hours. Change your soaking water once during the soaking time.

Rinse and drain your rice and place in a medium sauce pan. Pour the coconut milk into a 4 cup measuring cup and add enough water to make 4 cups liquid. Add to the rice. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring often, then reduce heat to medium low. Cook for 22-25 minutes or until rice is tender but mixture is still loose. (It will thicken as it cools) Remove from heat and add honey, salt and vanilla. Top with cinnamon or toasted coconut flakes. Serve warm or chilled.

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