Tag: Paint

Use your Hands to Stimulate your Brain

As children we tend to be very creative and to not worry about what anyone around is thinks. Sadly, as we become adults though we tend to become more reserved in our efforts. We dont make time to draw or to paint for the most part and we definitely dont want others to criticize our work when we do. Therefore we end up creating what we think society will approve of rather than what we really want to.

When you use your hands to stimulate the brain, you will be able to draw and to paint freely. You will be able to let go of such reservations and feelings of uncertainty. Even if you dont like what your end project looks like, it is your very own creation. This type of creativity allows the brain to work in ways that you may have sheltered for a very long time.

It is amazing how little adults allow themselves to explore such freedoms. If you have children in the home you can spend the afternoon with them and stimulate your brain by working with your hands. There are many fun substances you can use for this. Play Doh is one that most of us are familiar with. There are also sticks of clay and even a newer one called Moon Sand.

You can use this same concept at the office too. Doodling on the side of your paper while you are deep in thought is a good start. The idea is to keep your hands moving at all times. If you cant think of something to write down on your proposal then doodle for a few minutes. As new information comes to your mind you can go back to writing it all down. Make a conscious effort during this process to keep your brain stimulated.

There may be an activity that you want to take up that involves your hands moving. For example knitting, sewing, or weaving. You can complete great products with your hands this way as well as offer your brain the additional stimulation that it can benefit from. Consider taking a pottery class where you can learn to shape and to make new items.

If you arent sure what types of activities you would like, consider spending some time at the local craft store. Certainly something there will capture your attention. It can be fun to learn a new skill too. Dont worry if you arent good at it right away though. Instead focus your attention on the fact that you are doing what you can to stimulate your brain activity.

Many people report that using their hands to stimulate the brain is a great way to release tension for them. They feel more relaxed after engaging in such activities. At the same time they feel that they have a clearer understanding of their thought process. Such activities simply seem to clear the mind to give a person the chance to view things in a new perspective.

You may need to explore a variety of ways to use your hands to stimulate your brain. Find those activities that you are enjoying and then make them a part of your daily routine. The overall benefits for your mental well being are more than you want to pass up. Some people will tell you in that frame of mind they were able to come up with some of the best ideas they have ever experienced.

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Arthritis Patients: Do You Need Surgery?

If you have recently been diagnosed with arthritis or if you suspect you have it, thoughts of surgery may automatically pop into your head. Yes, some patients must undergo surgery, but it is actually very rare. Despite the common belief, it is possible to treat and manage the symptoms of arthritis, such as joint paint, swelling, and difficulty moving, without surgery.

When is surgery considered an option?

Unbearable Pain. When the pain is so severe that over-the-counter pain relievers and prescription pain relievers do not work, surgery may be the last resort. Overtime, our bodies get use to the pain relievers we ingest. Overtime the Tylenol that once provided with you with relief, may no longer do so. If and when that point arrives, speak to your doctor about prescribed medications. He or she will likely want to try those first before opting for surgery.

Joint damage. The elderly and those who let their arthritis go untreated are susceptible to joint damage. This includes deformities. For example, a patient with severe rheumatoid arthritis may have bent out of shape fingers. This not only looks different, but it is excruciating in terms of pain. Surgery can be used to correct these deformities and other severe joint damage.

What type of procedures may be performed?

Arthroscopy. This is a minimally invasive surgery and a great alternative to open surgery. A small incision is made in the skin. Then, a thin viewing instrument, known as an arthroscope is inserted. Its destination? The painful joint. Many surgeons use this procedure to diagnose a problem and decide on a course of treatment. It can also be used to perform small surgeries. It has many benefits, including less pain, lower costs, and less hospitalization. So, if you need surgery, offer an arthroscopy as a suggestion.

Arthrodesis. This surgery is very rare, as there is a high risk of complications. And, it results in a permanent disability. So, why is it even offered? It is the only hope of pain relief for some individuals. These individuals have a diseased joint that cannot be fixed any other way. Pain and swelling are common and unmanageable. Arthrodesis involves fusing two bones into a joint. This prevents joint movement. For many, this is a last and only resort.

Joint replacement. Joint replacement surgeries are common with the shoulders, knees, and hips. With joint replacement surgeries, the ends of nearby bones are replaced. This results in new joint surfaces. It will take time and physical therapy, but most patients experience a reduction and pain and an increase in mobility. For the fingers and toes, joint replacement is less common. Typically, surgeons opt for the fusion of smaller joints, as opposed to total replacement.

What are the alternatives to arthritis related surgery?

It depends. For starters, how severe is your arthritis? When were you diagnosed? The earlier osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis are diagnosed, the easier it is to treat without surgery. Exercise is vital. Yes, it is difficult to move your joints, so exercise may seem like it is out of the question, but it is not. Start with low impact exercises or opt for water exercises or physical therapy. The more a joint is moved, the less stiffness you experience. This can later reduce the chance of deformities.

As for the pain, remember that surgery is only used as a last resort. First, try over-the-counter pain pills and cream or ask for stronger prescription medications. Heat also helps many. Soak in a warm bath daily or use a heating pad. Although there is little scientific proof to back these claims, many arthritis patients report long-term relief with continued use of natural remedies and supplements, including cayenne pepper, pineapples, ASU, and ginger.

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