Seeing is believing! Running neurons!

Running neurons!!! The image is from "Molecular Cell Biology", Lodish et al, 5th edition https://www.amazon.com/Molecular-Biology-Matsudaira-published-Hardcover/dp/B008BWZC5C

When I got into an awesome relationship, we both managed to quit smoking:-) For me nicotine gum really did it:-) It both reduces the craving and replaces the habit. My molecular biologist fiancee said that smoking is addictive because it alleviates a biological stress response. You know what else reduces the stress response? It's talking to someone whom you love and expressing your pain (whatever that may be) in words. There have been studies that showed that parents who talk extensively to their children give the greatest gift that they can to the kid-- improved cognitive abilities. A shared pain is half the pain. 

So now that I fixed my smoking thing, the next step is to get into the habit of running! I think I will mentally visualize the image above, it's so motivating:-)! I went running with my fiancee for a few times, but we're in different shape and he had to wait for me:-( But seriously, we both quit smoking after the few times we ran and I feel so much better! Actually, we also walked instead of taking the bus, from home to work (it takes like an hour). We walked a lot! I feel so much sharper mentally, it's a stark contrast. There's a course on Coursera called Positive Psychiatry that has an entire week dedicated to physical exercise https://www.coursera.org/learn/positive-psychiatry/ Did you know exercise is an evidence based treatment for depression? The minimal recommended time to spend on physical activity every week is 2.5 hours!

While I'm talking about this stuff, can I just recommend a great course on medical research from Coursera, "Understanding Medical Research: Your Facebook Friend is Wrong",  https://www.coursera.org/learn/medical-research? It's truly wonderful!