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  • Essay / The Mind-Body Connection in Learning - 607

    Introduction Generally speaking, in learning processes, the connection between mind and body frames is easy to overlook, but some connections are vital for humans to live healthy lives. These connections must be understood because the mind-body connection allows us to function, particularly when it comes to learning. These two systems are not independent of each other when it comes to learning, they work together to help us pay attention, solve complex problems, and remember everything we have been taught. The mind-body connection is linked to how we learn.DiscussionNeuroscientists, educators, nutritionists, psychiatrists, geneticists, and yogis examine the mind-body connection to understand how we learn (Weiss, 2001). Learning is the activity or process of acquiring knowledge or skills by studying, practicing, being taught, or experiencing something. The learning process cannot take place without the body functioning at an optimal level to support the mind's learning efforts. The learning environment can be very stressful and adult life can be distracting. Understanding the mind-body connection in learning can help achieve all learning-related goals. Activities that require the body to move, a person's diet, their emotional health, and their spiritual health all influence learning. Ratey (2001) states: “It has become clear that we can actually change our brains. By changing the external environment of our environment or the internal environment of our body, we take better advantage of our strengths and modify our weaknesses.” Learning can only take place after the learned information has been processed. Processing activities may include speaking, writing, playing games, creating something (Jensen, 2005). The movement of the ma...... middle of paper ...... mental exercises are necessary to facilitate learning. Doing puzzles, meditating and praying promotes relaxation which is beneficial mentally and physically. Conclusion The mind-body connection will forever be linked to how we learn. Exploring both systems provides all the information needed to support this. To keep your brain active, the body must stay healthy and active. Movement through exercise, proper nutrition and mental exercises facilitates the learning process. Works Cited Jensen, E. (2005). Teaching with the Brain in Mind: 2nd Edition, Alexandria, VA: Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development. Kotz, D. (2010). Exercise your body and your brain. US News & World Report, 147(7), 36. Ratey, J. (2001). A User's Guide to the Brain. New York, NY: Pantheon. Weiss, R. (2001). The mind-body connection in learning. T+D, 55(9), 60.