So- I have to assume that everyone read my FASCINATING introductory blog that was recently posted (If you haven’t, shame on you- go read it now and then come back). I’ve already started my takeover of our online blog presence! Which is why I’m switching up the Friday Props form and writing it from my perspective. No mysterious ghost writer here! 

It’s kind of a big deal to write these... It caused me a little anxiety about what I would do. So I listened to some Podcasts and got an idea. 

As you (now) know, I’m in my Senior year of Nursing and I just started reading a book for my Palliative Care course- it’s called “Brain in a Jar” by Vermont author Nancy Bercaw. It’s an absolutely fascinating book about her personal experience and history of her family and Alzheimer's Disease. 

Then I was driving down I-89 and heard a news story about the NFL and the new documentary ‘League of Denial’ about brain injury and the long term effects of football on a player’s health. 

My world seems to be imbued with brains! Which got me thinking...The brain. it’s a pretty amazing thing. 

Therefore, Friday Props #70 is about BRAINS. 

So a little bit about brains: You need one to be alive. 

Ha... but seriously. The quick and dirty anatomy of the brain 

Even after injury, our brains have an amazing ability to rewire themselves, thanks to plasticity. Even if it doesn’t get 100% fixed, humans just manage to make things work and do incredible things. Listen to my FAVORITE Radiolab Podcast about Ultrarunners. What’s that? People who run LONGER than a marathon. 

In The Running 

Our brains are so unique and special that we want to copy them, duh. In the area of technology and robotics- one of the most advanced robots in the world- claimed to be “the most sentient” is located right here in good ole’ Vermont. Her name is Bina48. First of all- Go Vermont! Second of all- The concept behind this robot is a open source mechanism to back up your mind. YOU could back yourself up and be included in the LifeNaut project.  Listen to find out more and hear about Bina48 in (another) Radiolab Podcast. 

Everyone Has Solar 

Here’s a photo of Bina48 as a teaser. 

 Now here’s the real question: How can you make sure to keep your brain in the best shape? 

 Here are general suggestions for general health you (probably) already know: wear a helmet, eat a balanced diet, SLEEP, exercise. 

 You can exercise your brain on this cool new site! I tested it out and had a lot of fun (procrastinating!).   The advertisement says that it is “like a workout for your brain”. Anyway, I need to get back to using my brain for work purposes (but I can still listen to these Podcasts! Multitasking for the win!). 

 Everyone enjoy Friday and the door is open for suggested recommendation for Props in the future.

- Newbie (Jeanelle)