I love how neurology today is continuing to scientifically and physically show us what we’ve intuitively and experientially known already for so long. Here’s another delightful finding on running and human life. Click here for the article, and read on for my take on it. This one comes to us from New York Magazine's Science of Us.

Neurogenesis is the generation, or creation of new neurons. As recently as 15 years ago we still believed that a person starts out with a certain number of “brain cells” and that’s all one got—use them, lose them, burn them, fry them; if you run out then you’re done. Now we’re seeing that specific activity can actually grow new neurons. Yes, we can grow them ourselves! Through “vigorous aerobic exercise” we can trigger neurogenesis. In fact, that’s the only activity we know about so far that does so. 

Now consider this: We quite literally have the power to create new neurons, stronger more developed brains, by choosing to do an action. Theoretically, we can actually use our wills to promote evolution in our species. “Evolution” and “human species” and generations too much for you right now? Well, there's still really good news. The research shows that there are even immediate and short-term benefits to going for a 30-minute jog just once. One time.

So, go for a run. If it’s not or can't be running for you, find yourself another vigorous aerobic activity—swimming laps, tennis, dance, water aerobics, cycling, wheelchair basketball, jumping rope, triathlon, farming land, hiking/backpacking—and happy growing! 

Thank you science. Long live mystery! Take good care.

Take a few minutes and experience this moving expression by legendary Patti Smith at last year's (2016) Noble Prize ceremony.

May this piece remind you of the humanity in you that's also in everyone else--that which connects us all. Take good care of that in you, and you will take good care of humanity.

​Happy New year.

As it turns out, "following your heart," so to speak, is critical to success, creativity, productivity, and gratification in one's life. Find it.

Click here to find a useful list-icle and links to more information, namely a TED Talk on the work of Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi in operationally defining "flow."

It's never too late to reverse the script--to change how we act, what we do, the thoughts we believe--to approach our selves, others and our lives in a different way. You might like the results.

As soft in heart as he is on the eyes, BJ Miller explores with us parts of his own personal and professional journey encountering death and loss. Grief is a powerful human experience and an usher toward a threshold through which our lives change; transformation. Thank you, BJ for your courage, confidence and service.