Books for healing. Literally.

What genre of book do you most enjoy reading?

Now, what if I was to tell you to read something completely different?

Or perhaps you don’t read books.

(Well, you should!)

I don’t say that to be snobby. According to neuroscience, trying new things and exposing yourself to new experiences can forge new neuro-pathways. It's exercise for your brain.

This rapidly emerging science has shone incredible clarity on how our brains work. Brain fitness is as important as improving fitness for any other part of our physical being.

A good gym workout helps muscles. A good hike helps cardio and joints.

Work your biceps, they become bigger and you'll lift more weight.

Exercise the hippocampus and cortex region of the brain, you can improve your memory.

This is especially true when we embracing things we previously didn’t like.

Some studies are suggesting that new experiences and skills can ward off serious late-life deficiencies such as dementia.

Do you like edge-of-seat thrill rides? Political espionage? Then try reading literary fiction, romance or character dramas. You'll struggle with the lack of pace, or remembering the characters and what makes them tick. It's not what brings you that instant dopamine-hit. But stick it out and you'll be doing your brain a favour.

And you might even learn to like it. You might learn to open up an appreciation for 'show not tell' storytelling and character arc.

I met a classical musician who, for this very reason, was learning to like rap music. Now that's commitment!