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ClassNotes2008Jan17 21 - 21 Jan 2008 - Main.MattDavisRatner
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1-17-08 - Thursday | | | Although I really have no idea whether TV inhibits the formation of useful memories (I'd be interested in seeing some statistical evidence on the topic), I can, from first-hand experience, support Eben's suggestion to meditate as a means of relaxing. I always thought meditation was either hippie BS or something for exotic eastern religions; however, last semester when I was having trouble dealing with stress, a close friend suggested I try breathing exercises as a form of meditation. It only took me a few days to get the hang of it, and despite my skepticism, I had to admit that it was a great way to clear my mind and relax after a long day of class and studying. I don't really know whether it helps or hurts my memory, but I can understand how it has persisted as a form of relaxation for thousands of years, despite the invention TV, a far flashier and more scintillating form of leisure. I think, in the end, my positive experience meditating stems from Daniel and Adam's earlier comments that it is much more a question of what you do with the medium, than what exactly the medium is.
-- GideonHart - 19 Jan 2008 | |
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In response to Michael Brown’s question about memory:
Of course, some capabilities in forming memories are genetic and biological, but that is not to take away from the importance of what you can do. You may not be able to ever "master" knowledge retention. You can improve your memory. Through an actively learning mind you create new neural synaptic connections allowing for easier access to where your memories are “stored” in the distributed network that is your brain. The more paths that are related to the relevant information, the greater the probability you will be able to access that information in the future.
Stressing active participation in what you do will improve your memory (the effect of active participation is at least partially due to the heightened attention focused on the activity), but the best “scientific” advice I can give to improve your memory is to get proper sleep because that is when your brain consolidates much of the day’s happenings.
I am more than happy to discuss the neural aspects of memory, as this is what I studied before I came here, so feel free to let me know if you would like to discuss this in more depth.
-- MattDavisRatner - 21 Jan 2008 | | |
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