When we do something that requires focus, the nucleus basalis, the deeply-nestled region of the brain that governs attention, secretes acetylcholine – this is the trigger for the hippocampus to “fix” the memories being formed. (In cases of even mild cognitive impairment, the nucleus basalis doesn’t secrete any acetylcholine.)

When we do something that also challenges and rewards us, the brain releases dopamine, too. Acetylcholine and dopamine together stimulate new neural growth and brain plasticity.

So, if we focus our attention on a task that tests and challenges us in a positive way, and makes us feel good when we master it, we’re stimulating highly effective and powerful plasticity. That’s why multi-tasking, stress, and ‘auto-pilot’ activities are terrible for personal improvement and brain exercise.

With well-designed brain training software we can enjoy enormous benefits — increased focus, memory, well-being, and even higher intelligence.

My company uses a training protocol designed by Susanne Jaeggi and Martin Buschkuehl for their study on Improving Fluid Intelligence by Training Working Memory (PNAS April 2008). I was so impressed by their work that I contacted them and turned the protocol into a commercial software program.

Mind Sparke Brain Fitness Pro

Martin Walker
http://www.mindsparke.com