Spark – The Revolutionary New Science of Exercise and the Brain – Released in January of 2008, the book Spark was a catalyst for massive change in my own personal life. Being a perpetual student of neurology, and more specifically neuroplasticity, I am always on the lookout for new resources to share with my patients to help them on their quest for optimal health. Dr. John Ratey does a superb job in this book outlining the physical changes that occur in our brains as a result of the various types of physical activity/exercise we perform; and for those that don’t exercise, it will give you incredible motivation to start the journey!
Many of us exercise because we feel we “have to”, or to burn calories, lose weight, build muscle and look better. While these are good reasons, they typically do not sustain the motivation we need for lifelong health. Dr. Ratey helps us to understand the countless chemical compounds that are produced. As a result of various types of exercise (such as insulin-like growth factor – IGF1. Vascular endothelial growth factor – VEGF, brain-derived neurotrophic factor – BDNF). And what these compounds do to improve our ability to handle blood sugar. Repair blood vessels and establish connections within our nervous system.
The way we move our bodies, and understanding the impact this has on our brains. Is critical for battling many behavioral, psychological, biochemical, and physical conditions. Dr. Ratey outlines 7 specific conditions including anxiety, depression, and ADHD among others; which can benefit tremendously with appropriate and adequate physical activity.
There is an abundance of evidence supporting neurogenesis (new brain cell growth). As a result of physical activity, and this is exploring within the pages of this book as well.
When you are done with this book you will feel that losing weight and looking better is merely a pleasant side effect of exercise, and not necessarily the most important effect. I can speak from personal experience that this book will significantly. Change the way you view exercise as it has added a tremendous amount of new life to my quest for optimal health –. And it has been nice to lose a few pounds and look better in the process!!
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DR. MICHAEL S. TRAYFORD
Dr. Michael S. Trayford is a Board Certified Chiropractic Neurologist and Neurofeedback Specialist with over 20 years of experience in the practice of advanced functional neurology. He is one of the most highly sought-after brain rehabilitation specialists because of the life-changing outcomes his patients consistently experience. After over a decade in private practice and working alongside other pioneers in the field, Dr. Trayford developed his multimodal intensive brain training and rehabilitation program built around the science of Neuroplasticity – the ability of the brain to learn and grow dependent upon the stimulation it receives from its environment. He later founded APEX Brain Centers to combine his ground-breaking rehabilitation approach with a unique patient and caretaker-centered care model. Under Dr. Trayford’s leadership, APEX Brain Centers has successfully treated thousands of patients and earned the reputation of a world-renowned brain training and rehabilitation practice. Since its inception, Dr. Trayford has been a leader of the Brain Training revolution treating patients worldwide. In addition, he is a published journal contributor and international lecturer. His experience with various patients of all ages and neurological conditions has given him a unique perspective on brain health and human performance. He is also well-versed in collaborating with other health care professionals, making him an invaluable asset to any care team. Dr. Trayford was awarded the Functional Neurologist of the Year distinction by the International Association of Functional Neurology and Rehabilitation, where he is a proud member and conference lecturer. Currently, he serves on the Advisory Council for the Dementia Society of America and the Board of Directors for the International Society for Neuroregulation and Research. He is also a servant leader who has dedicated his adult life to serving multiple communities through Rotary International and other notable causes. When he’s not treating patients, Dr. Trayford usually reads or researches anything related to the brain, human performance, and leadership. He also loves spending time outdoors with his wife Denise, their two daughters, and dogs in the beautiful mountains of western North Carolina. https://www.linkedin.com/in/drmichaeltrayford/
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