Season 3 – Episode 4
Season 3 – Episode 4 is an interview with Barb Rabicki.
In this episode of the Inspiration 2 Grow podcast, we discuss the intricacies of maintaining a healthy, vibrant mind through the wisdom shared by Barb Rakicki in our latest podcast episode: “Mind Matters: Unlocking Brain Longevity.”
Whether you’re a young adult or stepping gracefully into your later years, understanding the importance of brain health and implementing strategies for longevity is crucial. Let’s explore the fascinating world of brain longevity, uncover practical tips for enhancing brain health, and learn how to keep our minds sharp as we age.
00:08 | Introduction to Brain Longevity
In our recent podcast episode, we had the pleasure of hosting Barb Rakicki, a certified arborist, landscape designer, and a brain longevity specialist accredited by the Alzheimer’s Research and Prevention Foundation. Barb combines her love for nature with her expertise in yoga, meditation, and forest bathing to teach the Brain Longevity Program, which aims at slowing the progression of Alzheimer’s disease through healthy lifestyle practices.
11:01 | The Four Pillars of Brain Longevity
Barb enlightens us on the four pillars essential to brain longevity, which are diet and supplements, stress management, exercise, and spiritual fitness. These pillars serve as the foundation for maintaining brain health and are intertwined with practices that reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia.
Diet and Supplements: A plant-based diet rich in vitamins B, D, and E, polyphenols, healthy fats, and omega fatty acids is recommended for brain health. Emphasizing whole foods over processed ones, Barb shares that what’s good for the heart is also good for the brain.
Stress Management: Chronic stress has detrimental effects on brain health, including increased inflammation and damage to brain cells. Barb advocates for incorporating relaxation practices such as yoga and meditation into daily routines to manage stress effectively.
Exercise: Physical activity is crucial for brain health, with recommendations including at least 150 minutes of low-intensity activity or 75 minutes of vigorous exercise weekly. Barb suggests finding enjoyable and sustainable exercise routines to ensure consistency.
Spiritual Fitness: Spirituality, whether through organized religion or personal journeys, is linked to reduced anxiety, depression, and loneliness. Community engagement and finding purpose in life are highlighted as integral components of spiritual fitness.
22:32 | Enhancing Brain Health with Sleep and Brain Aerobics
The Importance of Sleep: Quality sleep is paramount for clearing metabolic waste from the brain, supporting cognitive function, and preventing cognitive decline. Barb emphasizes the critical role of REM sleep in maintaining brain health.
Brain Aerobics: Activities that engage multiple senses and challenge the brain, like playing musical instruments or creative arts, are vital for promoting cognitive health. Barb encourages incorporating brain aerobics into our routine to foster neural plasticity.
RELATED: How Your Brain Benefits from Working Out
28:39 | Workshop on Brain Longevity
Barb will be hosting a three-part workshop series at Lakeshore Recreation, focusing on the four pillars of brain longevity. The sessions aim to equip participants with knowledge and tools for enhancing their brain health. Seats are limited so enroll today. Members and non-members welcome. Please register in person or call us at 519.832.9027.
Details on Barb Rabicki’s Brain Longevity Workshop:
Location –> Lakeshore Recreation in Port Elgin
Dates –> 3-part series on April 10, 17, 24
Times –> 7 – 8:30 pm each evening
Cost –> Members of Lakeshore $45; Non-members $55
https://www.lakeshorerecreation.com/
Connect with Barb
Email: wildbynatureforestsanctuary@gmail.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wildbynatureforestsanctuary
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/wildbynatureforestsanctuary/
