Recently, I’ve been having a hard time remembering people’s names. I find myself saying, “That person, um…” but just can’t remember the actual name. When this happens more and more, I tend to think, “I’m getting old, so it can’t be helped,” but I’ve heard that this way of thinking is good, so I keep saying “um…” forever.
My mother had dementia. Watching my mother gradually lose her memory has given me a real sense of how the brain deteriorates, so I want to be mindful of this on a daily basis. Then the other day I read an article that said, “They say that muscles can get stronger if you train them even after you’re 90, and the same goes for the brain.” You can get stronger if you train them even after you’re 90.
This is because the brain has a characteristic called “plasticity.” Brain plasticity is the ability to change its structure and function in response to new experiences and learning. When you try something new, your brain creates new neural circuits to accommodate it. And with repeated use, these circuits become thicker and stronger.
When you think about it that way, the problem lies in using your own standards to decide that “I’m just getting old.” At the monthly Shinkiko retreat seminar, yoga master Mr.Tatsumura teaches methods of activating the brain by performing different movements with each hand.
For example, you could make a fox with your right hand while making a rabbit with your left hand, alternating between these movements. It’s difficult at first, but this is precisely the kind of training that creates new neural circuits in the brain.
I always tell people, “When you receive the energy of Shinkiko and your Ki rises, you will find it easier to feel at ease in your mind.” The function of the brain is also deeply connected to the state of Ki. When you are affected by negative Ki, you become more convinced that “I can’t do it anymore” or “I’m too old,” and you lose the motivation to try new things.
Furthermore, by keeping negative energy at bay, you will be able to try things that you previously thought were difficult. You will feel less reluctant to take on challenges and be able to take on new things without fear of failure. From now on, with the support of the energy of Shinkiko, you can try new things with peace of mind. The brain continues to grow no matter how old you are. Make good use of Shinkiko and live a life of continuous growth.