The Health Benefits of Crossing Your Arms and Legs: Enhancing Brain Function

The human brain is a wondrous and enigmatic organ that governs our every move and thought. It plays a vital role in our overall health and well-being, both physically and mentally. In recent years, brain-training programs like Lumosity have gained popularity as a means to promote mental fitness. However, there is a simple and often overlooked action that can have actual health benefits and positively impact how our brains function: crossing our arms and legs.

For many years, it was believed that humans only used 10% of their brain’s capacity. This idea stemmed from the fact that only 10% of the brain is comprised of neurons, the nerve cells responsible for directing our behaviors and thoughts. However, recent research has shed new light on this notion. It has been discovered that glial cells, which make up approximately 90% of our brains, have a substantial influence on our neurons. Therefore, we do utilize more than just 10% of our brain’s capacity.

The human brain is divided into two hemispheres: the right brain and the left brain. The right brain is associated with creativity and emotion, governing the left side of the body. On the other hand, the left brain focuses on logic and details, controlling the right side of the body. In the center, runs the midline of the central nervous system (CNS).

Research has shown that crossing our arms and legs can activate and synchronize both hemispheres of the brain, as well as both sides of the body. According to Seth M., who wrote on the subject for ExpandedConsciousness.com, “When you move your extremities across this midline, the opposite-sided brain will start to help regulate its movement, meaning both brain hemispheres are now activated and functioning simultaneously.” This ambidexterity achieved through crossing our arms and legs can lead to optimal brain function.

Not only does crossing our arms and legs enhance brain function, but it also has other notable benefits. It can reduce stress levels and promote clear thinking and learning. By engaging both hemispheres of the brain, we achieve a state of “super learning” where we can think with both logic and emotion simultaneously.

Humans are creatures of habit, often engaging in repetitive behaviors and thought patterns. These routines limit our brain’s ability to function in new and different ways. This is one of the reasons why it was believed that we only use 10% of our brains. However, when we challenge ourselves to use our brains in unfamiliar ways, we activate dormant neurons and pathways, consequently altering our habits. This can have psychological and physiological benefits, which is why engaging in activities like painting, writing, cooking, running, rock climbing, and yoga has become so popular. These activities force us to see the world from a different perspective and break free from our comfort zones.

Yoga, in particular, has gained immense popularity in recent times as a means to enhance brain function and overall well-being. The practice of yoga involves physical postures called asanas, which require flexibility, balance, and focus. Mindfulness and concentration are central to the practice of yoga, as it requires being fully present in the moment. By regulating our breathing and reducing the stress response, the mind, body, and breath interact to produce profound impacts on our health.

One yoga pose, in particular, exemplifies the benefits of crossing the CNS – the Eagle Pose or Garudasana. This challenging pose requires balance, focus, flexibility, and the crossing of arms and legs. Performing this pose can take practice but can ultimately have excellent effects on both the body and mind.

It is important to note that crossing our arms and legs can have health benefits regardless of the way we do it. Simply engaging in this action can increase our ambidexterity and boost brain function. It doesn’t require mastery in yoga or any specific skill.

Next time you find yourself feeling bored in a meeting or waiting for a bus, try crossing your arms and legs. It may seem like a small action, but it can have positive effects on your overall health and well-being. Just remember to maintain a serene facial expression, as impatience can send the wrong message to both others and your brain.

In conclusion, the human brain is a remarkable organ that governs our existence. Crossing our arms and legs can activate and synchronize both hemispheres of the brain, promoting optimal brain function. It can also reduce stress levels, enhance learning, and open up new pathways in the brain. The simple act of crossing our arms and legs is a powerful tool to improve our overall health and well-being. So the next time you have an opportunity, give it a try and reap the benefits.