Got Brain? Books To Improve Your Brain

Even if you are agnostic, you will want to read this book. Dr. Andrew Newberg has studied to healing impact of prayer on the brain for years. His past research includes watching how the brains of monks change while mediating. In this book, he takes his research to another level as he enlists people who do not pray or meditate and puts them into a program where he monitors the changes in their brain and their health. He includes several meditations that he has studied. I found this book practical and awe-inspiring. Also very interesting, Dr. Newberg cites research that supports the ideas in The Secret and even discusses that book in this book.

This is Dr. Amen’s first published book on brain research. A pioneer in the use of MRI to study the impact of life-style and thought changes on the brain, this book lays the foundation for living a better life. It is a must-read for anyone interested in the evolution of scientists’ understanding of our brain. He also gives practical advice based on his research.

Dr. Amen builds on his research for the last twenty years with his new book just released this year. Again, this is a combination of fascinating research and a prescription for living your best possible life. He expands his recommendations to include diet and supplements in this. Fascinating and a great handbook.

Dr. Brizendine is another doctor using neuroscience through studying MRI scans to understand what happens to the brain — in this case, the female brain, during the different ages and hormonal changes of females. Her insights have drawn criticism; however, there is much to be gleaned from this book. I've given it to friends who have teenage girls in their home and they have written me long thank-you notes. I found it useful to understand my own hormonal changes as I age. Great read for women and also men that love women.

Dr. Dossey has been on the forefront of understanding the power of the mind/body connection for health. His latest book is admittedly a bit woo-woo, but he backs up his findings with solid research. How much do we know before we know it? According to Dr. Dossey: quite a bit. Now if we could all just listen a little better.