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Change your mind

Retrain your brain

Adult learners exercise more, eat more healthily and smoke less, possibly because they have learned about the benefits of a better lifestyle – the many courses on offer range from aquaerobics to wholefood cookery, wardrobe analysis to confidence building. Research shows that learning has very positive effects on both physical and mental health. People who carry on learning through life are better at solving problems, less prone to depression and enjoy a sense of purpose.

Adult learning is big news. Around 74% of people in the UK are already learning, whether informally – by reading books or magazines, doing pub quizzes, or accessing the internet – or on more formal courses offered through colleges and learning centres.

What to learn

Think about why you want to learn. Feeling unfit, or bored, and want to give your mind and body a good stretch? Returning to work, bringing up children, or looking for a career change? Learning isn't just about qualifications. Think scuba diving, singing, storytelling. Thousands of subjects are available, at all levels, and some courses are free. Learndirect gives free advice on how to get started.

Also look out for taster courses at libraries, museums, sports centres or galleries. Local newspapers are good sources of information, or visit your nearest library or local adult education centre; particularly look out for courses listed under headings like Personal Development or Health and Wellbeing. The weblinks and books listed in Find out more provide further pointers.

Tone your mind

Retraining the brain isn't just about learning. Meditation and visualisation can encourage more positive thinking, help you overcome bad habits and even aid you in goals like losing weight. Holistic exercise methods like t'ai chi, yoga, Pilates or Alexander technique not only relax and tone your body, but shape up your mind, too.

For further reading and weblinks on retraining your brain go to Help and info.

Treat mind and body as one
Think effortless exercise
Find real happiness
Love your body
Eat intuitively
Age fantastically
Retrain your brain

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