I just read a statement: Get a “brain boost.” I thought, “That’s interesting.” I decided that that is something I could use. Yes, my brain does need boosting. That’s for sure!
Some people try to get a boost from a cup of coffee, a coke, a piece of chocolate cake or just a plain old chocolate. At least these are ways we go about trying to boost ourselves physically. But a “brain boost!” what’s that?
This intrigued me enough to continue reading the article. Here are some of the things it said:
Get a “brain boost” by learning a second language. In 2004 the BBC News told of a study conducted by the University of London of some of their bilingual students. Their findings were that these students had evidence of advanced learning and their brains were more stimulated. There have been other studies indicating that by learning a second language a person can delay dementia with the possibility of keeping their brains functioning better for a longer period of time.
I think what this article is trying to tell us is something like this:
With all of the information we have today about exercising our bodies, scientists are finding there are many advantages to “exercising our brains” as well. Many of us are content to let our TV’s, radios, CD’s and IPod’s do the programming for us.
There is an old computer saying, “Garbage in, garbage out.” If we look at the brain as our computer and the decisions we make on what we put into it as our operating system, we need to decide not to put so much “garbage in.”
Anyway, give it some thought. I have decided to do a better job with my brain. I definitely need a “brain boost” … just in case.
Learn a New Language with Pimseur Method.com. Available on CDs and Downloads.

1. Comment by fern
15/Sep/2010 at 12:52 am
I’m engaged in architectural design. My native language is Polish but I continue to learn English since very early age. One day I realized while making some conceptual sketches that it’s much easier for me to look for design solutions when I put the problem into English words.
Any ideas why it is so? Anyone experienced a similar fenomenon with any other language?
I suppose it’s because that particular (English) language uses words that work more like lego bricks – they are more general and wider in range, more universal – thus closer to the right hemisphere of the brain which is responsible for spacial and abstract thinking.
I think that might be the reason why learning a new language can boost the person’s thinking – it just equips the brain with new paths of thinking and a fresh point of view.
Get rid of the routine: learn a new language!
2. Comment by Bill
16/Sep/2010 at 2:02 pm
Great point! I’ve found that intellectual exercise also boosts creativity and innovation. When you involve your brain in intense mental activity, it creates new “neuro-pathways.” This stimulates out-of-the-box, creative thinking. So, learning a language could help you solve problems and create the next million-dollar product!
3. Comment by Shirah
23/Sep/2010 at 8:22 am
I’ve also heard that learning a musical instrument keeps the brain nimble. Brain cells die off. You need to keep generating them so that your brain capacity is kept up. Learning languages is a great way to boost the brain!
4. Comment by Rachel
24/Sep/2010 at 6:46 am
I have tried other Spanish language courses and have found them wanting. I have heard that Pimsleur makes it easier to learn. As a 67 year old, I could use a brain boost and language learning may be just what I need.
5. Comment by Eddie
5/Oct/2010 at 10:19 am
Yea, learning things like a language or guitar cuts new grooves in your brain. Well, sort of metaphorically.
I wanna win these cd’s!
6. Comment by Ulrike Reisiger
14/Oct/2010 at 2:43 pm
I’ve tried several different japanese and italian courses…but Pimsleur is unbeatable.