By Michael J. Gelb and Kelly Howell
New World Library, $14.95, 230 pages

Who would have thought that simply standing with our bare feet touching the earth, daily for half an hour, could have such a healing power over our bodies and minds? Or that it is ok to be silly and “luxuriate in nonsense” not unlike the talented Dr. Seuss who said “I like nonsense, it wakes up the brain cells.” Did you ever notice the pure joy exhibited by a child at play? Draw on that experience. Begin life anew. The book Brain Power, akin to a mini Wikipedia of knowledge, draws from many sources and experts (in the fields of medicine, gerontology and science) and organizes it into one concise, entertaining volume. While most of the advice may seem like common knowledge, such as extolling the benefits of olive oil and some may make you wish you would never grow old (referring to sex as “harmonizing” with your lover); this is an overall informative text. The Brain Sync audio, which is downloaded online, is a great bonus to expound on the meditation theme introduced in the final chapters. Even the lazy can benefit from this audio as one M.D. says “you don’t have to learn how to meditate; this technology literally meditates you.” While my favorite chapter title is undoubtedly “Rest Peacefully to Delay Resting in Peace”, take the message of this book to heart. The path to successful aging is a partnership with one’s mind and it is never too late to begin.

Reviewed by Kathleen Godwin

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