Writing is good for you

Yesterday, I made the point that writing is good for civilization. It is also good for you.

It’s a simple equation as far as I am concerned. Writing helps exercise the brain, and the brain, just like other parts of the body, needs such exercise.

While exercise taken in the form of healthy living and work that is also physically demanding is the best form of exercise for the rest of the body, physical exertion in the form of dedicated periods of exercise still serve the purpose. In the same way, one does not have to write for other people to see in order to gain the benefits of writing.

NaNoWriMo represents an opportunity to begin a mental exercise regimen that will benefit your brain for the rest of your life. No one has to see what you write–the process for proving you’ve written is not set up that way–and you can still benefit from the amazing network of writers who also participate even if you keep everything you write secret.

Yet, even then, even with the pressure, frustration, and tight schedule NaNoWriMo represents, your brain will benefit, and so will you. Think about it. Even better, write about it. It’ll be good for you.

DLH