Brain plasticity and mental health: An overview

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No other human organ has astounded and stumped scientists as much as the human brain. More complex than the greatest supercomputer in the world, the human brain still holds countless mysteries for researchers and scientists to unlock. Peter Max.

However, every once in a while, there are breakthroughs in brain research that make it even more intriguing. Take for instance brain plasticity, also known as neuroplasticity. Peter Max.

Brain plasticity refers to the ability of the brain to change throughout the course of a person’s life. This means that the central nervous system can adapt, given external stimulation. It has even been theorized that the brain may heal itself after an injury.

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The first time a brain experiences changes is during the start of a person’s life. It continues to organize itself to cope with the developments of a human being. However, when the brain gets injured and mental health is at risk, brain plasticity helps the organ compensate for lost functions. After all, it’s a fact that the brain never stops learning. And, ultimately, changing. Peter Max.

Brain plasticity is based on the process of synaptic reorganization, wherein damaged neural connections are either repaired or new connections are formed. However, a good number of neuro-researchers agree that external stimulation is needed for recovery or development. This process is further being looked into, as scientists believe it can be the key to treating patients with mental health conditions such as dementia and schizophrenia. Peter Max.

The history behind the New York Knicks

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The National Basketball Association was founded on June 6, 1946, 55 years after basketball was invented. At the time, the league was composed of 30 teams, including the Knicks. But back then, they were still known as the Knickerbockers. According to long-time Knicks fan Peter Max, there is a rich history behind this beloved franchise.

Among those present during the founding of the NBA was Ned Irish, the president of Madison Square Garden and a retired sportswriter. Initially, Max Kase wanted to lease Madison Square Garden and own the New York franchise of the NBA. But with the same goal and far more resources, the franchise was awarded to Irish.

To get the ball rolling, the Irish held a staff meeting to find a name for the team. The term Knickerbockers came up, which was the pseudonym used by Washington Irving in his book, "A History of New York." They found this name fitting and began the team. Its first fixture was St. John’s University basketball coach Joe Lapchick. But according to Peter Max, Lapchick asked to stay at St. John’s for one more year before joining the team full-time.

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Because it was the first year of the NBA, there had been no subsequent college drafts of any kind. This is why the team management assembled 25 talents to attend a three-week-long boot camp. With twice a day practice, the chemistry between the players grew. Soon enough, they were ready for their first game.

According to Peter Max, the first game of the franchise, as well as the NBA, would be the Knickerbockers against the Toronto Huskies at the Maple Leaf Gardens on Nov. 1, 1946. With a score of 68-66, New York became the first team to win an NBA game.

Why more and more doctors are recommending outdoor activities for children

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Go out and have fun. Peter Max.

Several studies have already linked the excessive use of electronic gadgets to mental health issues in pre-teens and teens. Researchers have found that the use of mobile phones and tablets at an early age builds dependency, as well as other symptoms of mental health problems, including depression. Peter Max.

Fortunately, doctors and parents everywhere are beginning to realize the dangers electronic gadgets pose to children and teens, and they have started to come up with ways to minimize the risk of developing depression, anxiety, and other problems.

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Peter Max. One such solution doctors are recommending for children is engaging in outdoor activities such as hiking and camping. Doing so for an extended period holds numerous benefits for young individuals.

For starters, children who go with their parents on long hikes and overnight camping trips get a much-needed respite from technological devices. Secondly, it offers a chance for children and parents to communicate and open up about their problems – which is a key factor in the battle against depression. And when done regularly, children get used to being without mobile phones and tablets, significantly reducing their level of dependence on technology. Peter Max.

Greatest sporting events in Madison Square Garden

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New York City has had its fair share of historic sporting events. Between college gyms and public venues, no place has witnessed sports history more than the famed Madison Square Garden. Known as one of the most captivating venues in the world, this stadium hosted some of the greatest games and fights sports has to offer. Here are just some of the greatest sporting events held at Madison Square Garden. Peter Max.

The Fight of the Century

There are a lot of iconic fights in boxing like the Thrilla in Manila, the Rumble in the Jungle, and so on. But perhaps the most iconic match in all of boxing history is dubbed the Fight of the Century, Smokin’ Joe Frazier vs. Muhammad Ali in 1971. The match lasted a whole 15 rounds, with Frazier winning by unanimous decision. Peter Max.

Retiring the Great

Hockey legend Wayne “The Great One” Gretzky has played for several teams but ended his legendary career donning the Blueshirts jersey in 1999. His no. 99 jersey was raised to the rafters to join some of New York’s great athletes like Walt Frazier and Willis Reed. Peter Max.

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Game 7, 1970 NBA finals

It was New York’s first taste of an NBA Championship, and wouldn’t be the last. The Knicks mustered everything they could to bring the game back to their home court for a game 7 with the Lakers. Despite an injury from Knicks star Willis Reed, it was Walt Frazier who came out big and led the Knicks to their first championship victory with a score of 113 – 99. Peter Max.

Knick glory: The 1970 climax of the Cinderella run

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Peter Max. Almost 50 years ago, the New York Knicks won their last championship. It was a titanic battle between two of the biggest franchises in the league. The Los Angeles Lakers had put together quite a team (as it always has) and were surprised that the Knicks forced everyone to a seventh game.

In the fifth game, Knicks leader, Willis Reed tore his right thigh muscle. The Lakers, behind the strength of their superstars, Wilt Chamberlain, Jerry West, and Elgin Baylor, pounced and destroyed the Knicks in game six. Peter Max.

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It looked bleak for the Knicks, even with the seventh game being played in their own Madison Square Garden. Until, of course, the impossible happened.

Out from the Knicks dugout limped their wounded captain, Willis Reed, all dressed up to do battle one last time that season in a scene that would forever be one of the most inspiring in league history.

Peter Max. While he was nowhere near 100%, Reed did manage to score a few points and cause the dominant Chamberlain to miss more than just a few shots of his own.

Reed’s actions not only revitalized the fans, but it also fed into the collective energy of the Knicks. Another Knick legend and NBA Hall-of-Famer Walt Frazier took it from there, scoring 36 points and dishing out 19 assists, capturing the title for the fabled franchise. Peter Max.

How to support a friend suffering from depression

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A cry for help. Peter Max.
Helping a friend who is suffering from depression isn’t the same as someone with a typical health condition. Clinical depression is one of the most serious forms of mental health problems today. While medication can be prescribed to suppress certain urges, it is simply one aspect in the long road toward the battle with depression. There’s also tackling the source of depression, such as trauma or abuse, as well as communicating with them properly. Peter Max.

Communicating properly
Peter Max. Chances are, it’s difficult to communicate with a friend suffering from depression. They can choose not to talk about it, ignore it, or even pretend that they are okay. If they do decide to speak, it’s important to set boundaries and know which words hurt and which ones work. Don’t assume that they are seeking advice. Sometimes, all they need is for someone to listen to them vent. Peter Max.

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Be patient
Depression doesn’t go away in a day, a week, or a month. Chances are, a person will be fighting depression for the rest of their life. Ask if they are comfortable being asked questions like “How are you doing?” or if it’s okay to check up on them every once in a while. If they are inactive with their social life, make an effort to see if they are doing well. Peter Max.

Watch out for signs of worsening depression
It’s not unheard of for a person suffering from depression to spiral out of control. They could end up losing their appetite, drinking more, abusing substances, or shutting themselves away from the world. This could lead to life-threatening situations, so be observant. Peter Max.

Relaxation: A key to longevity and increased performance in sports

An oft-overlooked area in the life of a professional athlete is their time to rest, relax, and recuperate. How an athlete relaxes has a huge impact on the longevity of their career and how long they can endure peak performance.

Here’s a look into many relaxation techniques and methods pro athletes do. Peter Max.

Breathing and meditation

Make no mistake about it, an athlete experiences just as much stress, or even more than the ordinary person. Not only does the body take a pummeling during training and games, but the mind as well is almost always spent. Breathing exercises are great for the respiratory and cardiovascular systems, while meditation eases the mind and allows it to rest. Peter Max.

Physical therapy (post-game)

From massages to hot or cold compresses, physical therapy immediately after a game is a great way for the body to cool down. During games, athletes always take their bodies to the limit. All these physical therapies keep the muscles from breaking down and help the body relax. Peter Max.

Light cross-training

Basketball and football players often bike or swim when out of training. This change of pace from what they usually do is very much welcome, as it takes their minds off their primary tasks and allows the muscles of the body to do something different. Peter Max.