As we enter our retirement years, many of us are dealing with aches and pains. To counter, we begin physical therapy, mild exercise, and general movement. Movement keeps our joints supple and activates endorphins to keep spirits light. We are encouraged to socialize, eat a healthy diet, and get plenty of sleep. The one thing we often forget – or at least slack off – is continuing to challenge our brains.
Suggestions abound when it comes to maintaining a healthy brain in retirement. Strategies may include activities such as puzzles, brain games, and brain teasers. Reading books, magazines, news feeds and newspapers are typical choices. Engaging in creative endeavors, hobbies, and learning new skills such as playing an instrument or painting may entice some.
Recently one of my girlfriends mentioned she is “reading maps.” The ability to follow a road map is becoming a lost art in and of itself with the advent of GPS systems that tell us when and where to turn, the distance we are going, and how long it should take to get “there.” Delving into her map exercise, I learned that what she is really doing is learning about countries.
Karen purchased a large world map book. Each week, she opens the book at random pages and begins studying the country she finds there. Since she is in an atlas, she first looks for the capitol city. She finds the terrain, population and other information provided. Then she begins to research that country. She learns about their commerce, industry, and agriculture. She reads about their major religions, politics, and health care systems. She finds interesting facts and figures regarding demographics. She delights in determining as much as she can about the country of the week. In effect, she travels to the country without leaving her home. Her exploration has delighted her.
Yet, Karen takes it a step further. Not only does she read about the country, but she also compiles notes on the information she finds. She compares one country to the next, especially when considering bordering countries.
I love this creative way of learning about differing countries and cultures. As a foodie, I would then develop a meal or a gathering with the selected country as a theme. When inviting guests, I would challenge them to bring one little-known fact about the themed country. This would serve as an interesting conversation starter. If people have traveled to the country de jour, they may bring pictures or artifacts to use as table decorations.
I like road trips, so Karen’s idea inspired me to consider studying USA states or cities. Of course, one could use this model to study anything. When in conversation, many of us nod and move on. But why not jot a note to learn more about the topic? Studying a topic of interest will heighten our awareness and maybe help reconsider our perspective, all while expanding our brain power, enriching our lives along the way.
We are retired. That doesn’t mean we stop learning and growing. Virtual travel is one of many ways to keep our brains active. And it gives us something to talk about and helps keep us interesting!
Silver Sage Sisters 