Fascinating but somewhat sad research shows that poverty adversely affects the brain’s memory area called the hippocampus. Children raised in poverty have a smaller hippocampus, which often limits their academic and career progress, locking them in poverty.

Research also shows that engaged and loving parenting can completely reverse the adverse effects of poverty on the hippocampus, brightening the child’s future. These beneficial effects occur through a change in gene expression. 

We all have the same 20,000 genes. Within this bounty that you and I share, nature creates variations in two ways – 

1. We have different versions of the same genes, and 
2. We differ in which genes are expressed. 

The choices you make strongly influence your genetic expression. So, your genes are like a menu at a restaurant. You get to choose the dishes you order.

A healthy diet, exercise, nurturing relationships, hope, meaning, connection, discipline, courage, commitment to kindness—all of these activate healthier genes.

Pick one or more ideas from above. Add your own ideas. 

Think of a few ways you can take better care of yourself today, to improve your health and choose which genes you want to be expressed. Now that’s empowering, isn’t it? 

Excerpted from the book, That Makes Sense: Resilience-insights to lift your day.