As more and more people are living longer than they once did, research keeps growing on how to keep us fit in every area. One of the major fields of study focuses on how to keep our brains functioning as healthily as possible. Of specific concern is how to keep our memory working optimally.
One of the persons who have been championing the cause for brain health is Dr. Daniel Amen, psychiatrist and brain disorder specialist. Using SPEC scans to see how the brain is truly functioning has led to breakthroughs in how nutrition, supplements, exercise, and meditation can significantly impact brain function. Dr. Amen has a passion to ensure that our brains function at peak performance for as long as possible.
In his new release, Stones of Remembrance, Dr. Amen focuses on the significance of memory. He writes:
“Memory enables us to bring the joys, dreams, and lessons of yesterday into today. As we recall God’s faithfulness, we remain centered and growing, and we move forward with a sense of purpose. Memory allows us to keep our loved ones close, even when they are far away. It assures us that our personal history and experiences matter – that we have something valuable to teach generations to come.”
From this foundation and biblical base that God designed our brains to remember, the author reminds us that throughout the Bible we are encouraged and commanded to remember. When we remember His Word and stay in touch with His promises, we are more likely to stay on course. We know how key that is to us spiritually, but Dr. Amen goes on to point out how vital it also is to our brain health.
“But it’s not just our spiritual well-being that benefits from remembering. Participating in regular spiritual practices such as Scripture meditation, memorization, and prayer also contributes to a healthier mind and body by reducing stress, increasing brain capacity, and even guarding against memory loss… The stronger your brain becomes, the stronger your memory becomes. And the stronger your memory becomes, the stronger you become.”
This small book is divided into three parts that focuses on how to make the memorization process more meaningful and intuitive. The first part of the book focuses on the Twelve Spiritual Disciplines for Improving Your Memory. Part two includes scriptures that have been organized by theme that can be helpful when you need biblical advice, support, or inspiration. The third part of the book highlights 12 verses that every Christian should know. They capture the essence of the Christian life.
Some of you may have heard Dr. Amen on TV or read one or two of his many books. He will soon release another book, Memory Rescue that focuses more on the physical and emotional impact of brain health on memory. This new book, Stones of Remembrance, looks specifically at the spiritual aspect of memory and brain health and gives specific tools to utilize to strengthen and bring healing to our brains.
At the conclusion of the book Dr. Amen includes several appendices you won’t want to miss: Tips for Memorizing Scripture; Healthy Snacks for Boosting Your Memory; and, Easy Exercises to Help Improve Your Memory.
I have had the opportunity to participate in several teaching workshops presented by Dr. Amen as a part of my clinical counselor continuing education and learned so many things we can do personally to impact our brains and overall health. It was a delight to be able to review his new book.
To comply with new regulations introduced by the Federal Trade Commission, Tyndale House Publishers provided me with a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my review.
Oh, goodness, Pam! I love Dr. Amen’s work! I have followed him quite extensively and someday would like to get my daughter into his clinic. I’m a little (okay, a lot :-)) jealous you have been at his seminars and conferences!
Thank you for this description and review of this book. I think I need to get this one ♥
Blessings and smiles,
Lori
Glad we both have been blessed by his work. My husband went to his clinic in Reston, VA, a few years ago for a SPEC scan and evaluation related to sleep disorder issues.
Sorry to tempt you to jealousy😂 What I love about his work is the wholistic approach to issues that other doctors ONLY approach with medications.
It’s a short book…only 116 pages. I have ordered the other new one coming out tomorrow (Memory Rescue). Does that make me a fan??
Love and hugs,
Pam
This sounds like a fascinating book. I notice with my 93-year-old mom that she remembers days from her teens and 20s so vividly but can’t remember common words or people’s names. The mind is so interesting!
It is and only 116 pages!! The brain is fascinating and there is so much we do not yet know. My oldest grandson is in premed as a college junior and this is the area he plans to specialize in. He has done much reading and created a theory he has been trying with Alzheimer’s patients while studying in Chile this semester.
It sounds like a wonderful book. My father had Alzheimer’s so everything remotely connected to memory loss or techniques to exercise your brain has a special interest for me. Thank you for joining The Really Crafty Link Party this week.
It is…and only 116 pages! I’m sure the time with your dad was difficult many times. Blessings on your weekend ahead!💕
Wow, I didn’t know Dr. Amen was a Christian. I had listened to him on a podcast and seen him on tv, but didn’t realize he was a believer. I am excited to find out more about this book!
Glad to let you know he is a believer. This book is just 116 pages in length and deals only with the spiritual aspects related to memory improvement/tips. Memory Rescue will be released the same day and looks at the emotional and physical aspects related to memory and likely will be a bigger volume much as his other books are.💕
Very interesting, Pam. I guess memorizing scripture proves to be useful in more than a few ways! Thanks for the review. Sounds like an interesting topic. 🙂
-Rachel (your link up neighbor at Glimpses)
Yes, it does! Dr. Amen would know….he does the research😊 It is indeed!
My dad would have loved this book. He was the smartest man I knew and he lived to 95 years old. He learned things just because or because there was someone in the family who was interested in the topic. I have worked on scripture memorization this past year. I am successful when I stick with it. Good to be your neighbor at Barbie’s today.
Thanks, Mary! I confess this is a book I really need to use to memorize again. I have not really done much for a number of years. There are scriptures I know (most of the ones in the list of 12 Dr. Amen says everyone should know), but I usually don’t have the “address” of where it is found….just the verse. Need to use all his tips in this little 116 page goodie!😊
This is very interesting about memory and how remembering focuses our thoughts. I remember wondering why God retells the story of the Israelites leaving Egypt so many times to them. It sounds like it was to remind them of his faithfulness and to help them stay the course.
I have been memorizing Scriptures since I was a child, but somehow got out of the habit years ago when life became busier. Now I’ve lost some of those books and chapters that I’d been storing in my memory. It’s time to get started refreshing those verses in my memory and learning some new ones. Thanks for the nudge. This sounds like a great book to help.
The Word of God is everything to all people, it is sad that so many don’t see how powerful and wonderful His Word is. I will be looking for this book, very interested in learning more. Thanks for the review! Visiting from Good Morning Monday, sharing and pinning! Many Thanks! 8)
I agree, Debra. It is something that even believers too often neglect. I think the book is released Nov. 14, but can be pre-ordered.
Hi Pam! It never ceases to amaze me that the Bible instructs in every age, and in every capacity of life.
As I get older, I realize how important it is to flexible in mind and body too. It’s fascinating that this doctor can do scans to see just how much of our brains we are using, and what is working well in us. I love that, it’s like a little peek into the miracle that is our body.
May God keep us all working and thinking at the best level we can, serving him and each other with joy!
Blessings,
Ceil
Hi Ceil!
I know several people who have had SPECT scans and his recommendations regarding supplements, exercise, meditation, and sometimes medication have made very positive changes to their lives.
Have a blessed week!
Pam