Every day brings a new study about the brain. Not too long ago the “big news” was that we had a window of opportunity to hard wire the developing brain only between the ages of zero and three. Today the really big news is that our brains never stop growing and developing. One of the greatest influences on the development of the brain from birth to death is how we move our bodies. Anne Green Gilbert has known this for decades as she taught dance to generations of students. Her groundbreaking work is internationally renowned.
Developed by Anne Green Gilbert, the BrainDance is a series of exercises based on eight fundamental movement patterns that we move through in the first year of life. Research has shown that these patterns are crucial to the wiring of our central nervous system. As babies, we did these movements on our tummies on the floor. However, cycling through these patterns sitting or standing has been found to be beneficial. This "dance" is an excellent full body and brain warm-up for children and adults in all settings. The BrainDance can be done at the beginning of class; before tests, performances, and presentations; and during computer work and TV watching for brain reorganization, oxygenation, and recuperation.
excerpt from www.creativedance.org
In my house we use BrainDance to wake up every morning. It changes my outlook before I get out of bed, and helps with those mornings when my children can’t find the right side of the bed to get up from. The video is a fabulous gift for new parents, or anyone who wants to improve their day and develop their mind.
To find out more about BrainDance, Anne Green Gilbert, and her Creative Dance Studio, go to www.creativedance.org.
Yours in a Good Mood,
Dr. Susan Kleiner