Attention deficit hyper- activity disorder (ADHD) affects 3 to 5 percent of school-age children...
gluten inflames a child’s digestive sys- tem, brain inflammation likely occurs, as well. Look for gluten-free pasta, bread, crackers and cookies made from rice, quinoa, flaxseed and non-GMO (genetically modified) corn.
Pair fats with food. Healthy brain function requires a proper ratio of anti-inflammatory omega-3 fats to the more common inflammatory omega-6 fats (found in canola, soybean and corn oils). Encourage balance by eating omega-3 foods at mealtime, when the gallbladder releases bile into the diges- tive system, allowing better omega-3 absorption.
Avoid processed foods. High-fructose corn syrup and artificial colors such as Yellow 5, Blue 1 and Red 40 are linked to increased hyperactivity in children. Choose whole, real foods like whole grains and organic meats, vegetables and fruits. Use maple syrup rather than white sugar to sweeten foods—it’s full-flavored, so a little goes a long way.
Behavior Specialist Margit Crane, educator, GiftedWith-
ADD.com, Seattle, Washington.
Lead by example. Parents have more power to handle their child’s ADHD than they think. Model the desired be- haviors—if children are not allowed to eat in the living room, the rule should apply to the whole family. Maintaining consistent rules is vital.
Set boundaries. Many parents and teachers believe that boundaries for ADHD-laden kids, that are often sensi- tive by nature, may be harsh or limit- ing. But these children actually thrive with boundaries. Rather than offer kids unlimited choices, give them two or three options. This helps a child feel safe. Regard a troubled child as scared, rather than angry—this will enable parents and caregivers to speak to them with compassion.
Work with teachers. Some children with ADHD may have trouble fitting into traditional schools. When speak- ing with teachers, use collaborative words such as “partnership” to obtain healthy cooperation. Teachers have an entire class to attend to, not just this child; address them with respect
and understanding, and everyone will ultimately benefit.
Jenna Blumenfeld is the senior food editor at New Hope Natural Media, in Boulder, Colorado.
Copyrighted 2014. Penton Media.114554:1214BN.
Brain Gym for Higher Learning by Kari Murlowski
B
rain Gym is a safe and natural way to ease ADD, ADHD, anxiety, autism, depression and stress. The program consists of 26 safe, simple movements
known as Brain Gym activities. These activities are specifically designed to integrate the hemispheres of the brain to draw out innate abilities and grow new brain pathways for greater clarity and ease in learning. The 26 activities work together to assist in recalling movements which occurred naturally during the first years of life when learning to coordinate eyes, ears, hands, and whole body. Combined with a program for “learning through movement” developed
by educator and reading specialist, Paul E. Dennison, and his wife and colleague, Gail E. Dennison, the activities stimulate the flow of information between the brain and body, freeing the innate ability to learn and function at peak efficiency. When combined with a goal and a five-step balance process, moving with intention leads to optimal learning.
Learn anything faster and more easily Be more focused and organized Start and finish projects/assignments with ease Overcome learning challenges Improve attention, concentration and study skills
Discover how to move the body to switch the brain “on” for optimal learning and functioning and see improvements in areas such as concentra- tion; focus; organizational skills; memory with reading, writing, math, test taking; physical coordination; relationships; and improved self-responsibility. The Brain Gym educational model:
Promotes play and the joy of learning Draws out and honors innate intelligence Builds awareness regarding the value of movement in daily life Emphasizes the ability to notice and respond to movement-based needs Encourages self-responsibility Leaves each participant appreciated and valued Empowers each participant to better take charge of their own learning Encourages creativity and self-expression
Blocks in learning occur when information cannot freely flow between
the many nerve cells and functional centers located throughout the brain and body. Brain Gym works by promoting efficient communication between these centers, facilitating optimal achievement of mental potential.
Kari Murlowski is a Licensed Brain Gym Instructor/Consultant at The Integration Station, LLC, 4517 Allendale Dr., White Bear Township. For more information, visit
BrainGymTraining.com, email
Kari@TheIntegrationStation.com or call 763-785-4600. See ad, page 8.
natural awakenings March 2015 21
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