Learning Other Languages Is a Health Booster
By Tom Herrin
For many people in the world, other languages may be perplexing. The struggle to understand what someone else is saying is often frustrating, to say the least. Attempting to learn another language may be the last thing on their minds. After all, if someone comes here, they should learn the local language, right? That is one way of looking at it, but not only will it not hurt people to learn another language, it may make them healthier. Learning is a unique process that human beings can generally do well if they will try. Learning to speak another language has much to offer in the way of health.
Language Learning May Improve Math Abilities
Lots of people struggle with math as much as they do other languages. They may have some things in common. For sure, anytime people stretch their mental abilities, it can be much like exercising the muscles. The more they are worked, the stronger they become. Different kinds of studies were conducted at both the University of Massachusetts and the University of Michigan regarding people who were studying languages. Studies at both institutions found that those who studied languages improved their abilities in math.
Learning Languages May Increase Self-Confidence
People tend to avoid things they fear. That is natural. Learning a new language is a great way to overcome fear and insecurity. When people learn a new language, it is a great accomplishment. It can provide a feeling of success. This new mastery, even if it is not actually total mastery, can help people to gain the self-confidence to take on more challenges. Armed with this new sense of value, they may be able to make better decisions. When they are more self-confident, most people don't tend to second-guess themselves as much.
Total Health Includes All of It
Most of us think about our health only in terms of our physical condition. We are a bigger package than that. Our mind is critically important and has a major role in all that we do. Anytime we are able to do something to stimulate it, we have won a victory. I took a language in high school and soon forgot it. I have been working on another recently. I can fumble through some of it if I direct the conversation. I still have a lot to learn but feel certain I am on their right track. I'm sure I'll be better for it.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in West Hollywood, Calif.