EngAGE Social Services Coordinator Nancy Goodhart has declared July “Move the Mouse Month.” She says, “By putting the mouse on the other side of the keyboard, and using the other hand, we are creating new pathways to learning. And the challenge is fun! It feels good to learn something new.”
“This mouse move was prompted because of the pain in my right arm. I did not know that it was aggravated by constant finger movement on the mouse. Perhaps we could all give our over-used arms and underused brains some attention!”
Fortunately, Nancy reports that her arm already feels better.
Below is some supporting information from Resources for Science Learning at The Franklin Institute about how the brain can change when we change our habitual behaviors. And the example they used? Moving the mouse!
A Brain Exercise You Can Do Right Now
This is an exercise that can strengthen neural connections and even create new ones.
Switch the hand you are using to control the computer mouse. Use the hand you normally do NOT use.
What do you notice?
Is it harder to be precise and accurate with your motions?
Do you feel like you did when you were first learning to tie your shoelaces?
If you are feeling uncomfortable and awkward don’t worry — your brain is learning a new skill.
Try other neural building and strengthening exercises with everyday movements. Use your opposite hand to brush your teeth, dial the phone or operate the TV remote.
Click here to read more.
