Strategies for your Brain

"Think like a man of action, act like a man of thought."
– Henri-Louis Bergson

On Friday, I took a continuing education class sponsored by the Institute for Brain Potential and presented by Michael Lara, M.D.   Further Information from Dr.Lara can be obtained from his website, www.drmikelara.com. The following information are for educational purposes only.

According to Dr. Lara the prefrontal cortex is responsible for effective cognitive functioning and beginning as early as the mid-20s, a variety of impaired neurotransmitter signaling are  a result of age-related changes. Cumulative effects of chronic stress, such as depression, increased levels of cortisol, increased production of free radicals and other forms of bio markers like “ inflammation” are associated, and contribute to these changes. And of course we’re all familiar with memory loss.

Mild forgetfulness (where did I leave my keys, can you help me find my cell phone) are generally part of normal aging and occur  around age 70. Mild Cognitive Impairment is characterized by more severe lapses in memory and occur roughly around age 60, while Alzheimer’s Dementia(loss of memory, thinking, and reasoning skills) is more severe.

Memory loss is generally affected by age-related sleep changes, and can be  a significant stressor because of decreased total nocturnal  sleep time, delayed onset of sleep, reduced slow wave sleep, etc. These changes affect hippocampal atrophy in the aging brain.

Dr. Lara indicated that the following are not intended for “patient” diagnosis, education or treatment. A few of his ideas are as follows: 1. The B vitamins can support neurotransmitter function, and researchers found that homo cysteine-lowering B vitamins slowed the rate of brain atrophy in mild cognitive impairment by as much as 53%. 2. Bacopa is an Ayurvedic herb used to promote learning and memory. 3. As body weight increases (the abdominal cavity), brain volume drops. And obesity is primarily a disease of inflammation. 4. Omega-3 fatty acids and the ratio of Omega: 6: 3 is associated with and can be an anti- inflammatory nutrient. The ratio of approximately 1 is recommended. 5. The Mediterranean Diet is associated with reducing the risk of negative metabolic syndrome, reducing the risk of age-related cognitive decline and lower mortality rates.

Dr. Lara also talked about the benefits of Resveratrol (alcohol or grape juice) as a potent antioxidant; Dark Cocoa, CoQ10, and Blueberries, reducing oxidative stress caused by damaged mitochondria. For wine drinkers, you’ll like this quote “a meal without wine is like a day without sunshine.” Dr. Lara also talked about nutrients  that supported brain metabolism such as: 1. Berberine 2. Caffeine 3. Cinnamon.

His strategies for protecting the aging brain include: 1.Caloric restriction 2. Intermittent fasting 3. Aerobic training 4. Resistance training. Dr. Lara also mentioned that one hour of exercise was negated by six hours of sitting.

For those of you that want additional information, I suggest that you go to his website, or to WWW.ibpceu.com for additional references such as DVDs, booklets, and/or recommended readings. I totally support incorporating diet, supplements, and exercise to increase brain volume, longevity and to slow down cognitive  impairment for our aging brains. The key, of course, is finding the right  answer/practitioner.

In any event, keep moving, laughing, smiling, loving, appreciating and bonding too.

Way Too Cool 50 Km

"Could we change our attitude, we should not only see life differently, but life itself would come to be different."
– Katherine Mansfield

On March 8, I ran the 25^th annual, Way Too Cool, 50 km trail run. I am pleased to report that I ran it faster than last year. A couple of possible explanations are in order for the faster time, even with the wet and muddy trail conditions. For the past six months or so, I began running the hills and not worrying about my Achilles. Running the hills likely increased my cardio (overloading my cardiovascular system), which contributed to additional endurance. I’m considering running with a heart rate monitor to more accurately measure my cardio rate. I’ll  keep you posted. Not thinking about injuring my Achilles eliminated negative self-thoughts, which likely helped also.

I’m pleased to report that Tony, after a long Way Too Cool absence, met his running goal too. Further, my 100 mile ride and tie partner and friend Jonathan Jordan again ran in the event also. Jonathan, last year, experienced cramping at about 20 miles. This year, he ran well and didn’t cramp.

At about 14- 15 miles or so, Jonathan and I were accompanied by my friend Madhu. Once we reached the recycling center (21 miles), Chris and Bill joined us. My wife Linda and Chris’s wife Michelle were there also. At Goat Hill, Randall joined Linda and Michelle to welcome us. Meanwhile, Jonathan continued to stay in front.

It was great seeing everyone on the trail and at the aid stations. It certainly makes running more enjoyable. We all hung around at the finish, ate pizza, drank Coke’s and took pictures.

Afterwards, Linda and I hosted a potluck and were joined by spouses (Farah, Diane etc.}. We ate, drank, and it was all good. Further, I did not require any ibuprofen or icing afterwards. On Sunday, Jonathan, Linda and I hung out and took the day off. It was all good.’

An article from February 15, 2014, Bottom Line had a list of 9 Things Happy People Don’t Do. According to Dr. Dan Baker, he said that happy people don’t blame others for their problems. He said that taking responsibility for problems can lead to feelings of shame, guilt and inadequacy, but if we blame other people it’s more likely to lead to unhappiness. Because then, according to him, our happiness is outside our control, and then we are victims. He said take responsibility for solving your problems to learn that you have the power to set things right.

Taking responsibility for your issues, allows the individual to evaluate the effectiveness of decision-making. Hopefully, if poor decisions are made, we can then make proper changes. And as Katherine Mansfield states, it may be as” simple” as changing one’s attitude.

In any event, use the space between your ears, and employ effective, and self-fulfilling behaviors. That means keep moving, smiling, laughing, loving, appreciating and bonding.

Bo's Warriors Chapter 1 Go Blue Go Part 5

Bo's Warriors       Chapter 1   Go Blue Go

Part 5 

Coach Schembechler took a group of highly athletic and competitive young men (recruited by Bump Elliott) and created a group goal of winning, by being in the best possible physical condition which dovetailed nicely with his players individual motives. The 1968 team with a previous 8 – 2 record had a high probability of success for that 1969 season. With the clarity of the team’s goal; the cohesiveness of the team; their commitment and participation to the goals were so dynamic that the outcome of success left little doubt. As a result, the foundation of Wolverine football success was set in stone for years to come.

Some may argue that Bo made the player’s successful or was it the players, recruited by Bump, which made Bo successful? You decide.  Bump Elliott was a football legend at the University of Michigan. This handsome Marine Lieutenant was likely one of the most well respected of the many Michigan living legends. He was well spoken, intelligent, and a caring individual with great interpersonal skills. He was impeccably dressed and knew his football from a player’s perspective, from being a student from the University Michigan and was at ease with himself, with his national recognition.  If there was ever a spokesman for the University of Michigan, it was this unpretentious man. What a terrific model.

Those he recruited, had nothing but good things to say about him. Thomas Darden told of Bump coming to his Sandusky, Ohio, home. He said this soft-spoken man has such a great presence that his mother fell in love with him right away. Bump referred to Thomas’s parents, as Mr. and Mrs. Darden. They said to Thomas “he’s not like the other coaches.” Thom thought that Bump was a kind man, someone you can trust. If he said something to you, you knew that he was telling the truth.” I liked Bump and he made me feel that I was part of the Michigan experience. I also wanted to play for him, but he was fired.”

In fact, Bump was responsible for my 6   teammates and I leasing our house, in my junior year. That house became the “Den of the Mellow Men.” Mike Oldham and Glenn Doughty brought Bump the house listing. He took care of it from there. When I moved to Iowa, I looked Bump up and continue to have contact with him.

Mike Keller said that Bump took a personal interest and always came up to him and asked him how he was doing in school. Mike said that Bump knew that in order to play, I had to be eligible .Bump was comfortable to be around, like an uncle. Mike was friends with Bruce, Pete Elliott’s son, and later as a senior became friends with Bruce’s brother Dave. Bump and Pete Elliott were family. Mike said that Bump first approached him before athletic director Don Canham did and asked him to run for the Board of Intercollegiate Athletics at the University of Michigan. He did run and won.

Frank Gusich told me that Bump made a strong impression with both him and his mother. He said Bump was a real gentleman, a real classy guy. And it didn’t hurt that Michigan had a good academic reputation.

Fritz described Bump as a gentleman, respectful of every individual, dapper, well spoken, perfect, and    like an Ivy Leaguer. He didn’t think that Bump would run that” slap and stomp “drill because it disrespected the individual.

 These Michigan Wolverines contributed greatly and personified the Michigan tradition. They were selected to illustrate a cross-section of young men from different backgrounds who bonded and became relentless, in goal achievement. These young men came together and in 1969, achieved on the football field   and later off the field as well.  Their exceptional ability has been demonstrated throughout their entire lives.

It is  my pleasure  to introduce you to the outstanding men of that 1969, Michigan football team:  Jim Betts, Jim Brandstatter, Tom Curtis, Thom Darden, Frank Gusich, Mike Keller, Reggie McKenzie, Fritz Seyferth and Coach Gary Moeller who learned about mental toughness first-hand from their legendary coach Bo Schembechler. These are their stories.

Bo's Warriors Chapter i Go Blue Go Part 4

Part 4            Bo's Warriors        Chapter 1       Go Blue Go

In fact, on one occasion, the offensive team was doing a punting drill. Bo said that he would give $10 to any defensive player that blocked the punt. As it happened, the punt got blocked and there goes offensive tackle Jim Brandstatter running down field to make the tackle. Bo becomes irate and runs down field after Brandstatter thinking he missed his block, which resulted in the blocked punt. He finally catches up to Jim and starts berating him. Quickly, one of the coaches, Jerry Hanlon, runs up to Bo telling him that Jim made his block. Do you think that Bo apologized for his mistake?   Instead, Bo said something to the effect “he needed it.”   Doesn’t that remark sound so much like Bo?      

Bo knew that expectancy of success has a positive incentive value. Further, that expectancy of failure can affect the achievement motive as well; such as the motive to avoid failure. He knew that leadership, bonding, social pressure, and wanting to please could be nurtured in a group setting. He also knew that the players would bond around Jim Brandstatter and that Jim could take the verbal abuse.

Coach Schembechler understood that purposive behavior /positive valence goals gave meaning to these young curious competitive minds. He knew that aversive stimulation or negative reinforcement worked too especially and more so back then. He also knew about intrinsic motivation (desire to practice in order to become a better football player) and extrinsic motivation (a team win over OSU and MSU red letter games), as powerful motivators. Schembechler made it clear to his troops “do it my way, or the Highway; do it right the first time.” His communications were clear, not ambiguous. He knew how to communicate with his guys.

 In essence, Coach Schembechler knew how to increase motivation, so that his players would put out maximum effort. He realized that expectation of success (winning regular and red letter games) and expectation of failure (had to be avoided). He also was cognizant that success has a positive incentive value (important for the team, important for the coaches, important for the University, important for the tradition) increased motivation and behaviors associated with achieving the goal. He also knew that achievement, competitiveness, were in the psychological DNA of the exceptional group of men that he was leading. He knew they would avoid failure at any cost. They knew the importance of winning this OSU game.

Another significant and an important part of Bo’s psychological genius was related to conditioning. Bo Schembechler had an understanding that being in top physical condition resulted in not only intellectual growth but development in mental toughness as well (it ain’t just toughness). These young warriors realized that if they could survive Bo’s practices during the spring and fall, the game on Saturday would likely be a break/reward and/or relief.

Coach Bo’s most significant contribution to success was his ability to get the most out of his young players by changing their thought process. He did that by challenging them, getting them to believe that the impossible was possible. In other words, these young men began to believe in Bo, in the team and in themselves. The team mindset changed, barriers and obstacles overcome and on the field performance reached new heights. They no longer sold themselves short because their concept of self was raised beyond what they originally thought.  As these young man began to fulfill their football potential, their confidence soared and now the sky became their limit. This team could and did achieve anything they set their collective minds to accomplishing.

Bo utilized the achievement model of motivation.  He knew that goals were related to involvement of the task (which the main goal is to improve and increase one’s skills through practice, drill and more drill). Achievement goals are also related to ego involvement with the goal to demonstrate superior ability or out achieving-outperforming others. And that these high achievers will gain such things as approval and acclaim within the group. In other words, he knew that mastery within the sport and high-performance was paramount for team success. Bo was a master social psychologist, teacher/sage/ mentor to this collection of physically and mentally exceptionally gifted young men.

Bo's Warriors Chapter 1 Go Blue Go

                                           Bo's Warriors           Chapter 1 Go Blue Go  
Part 3 Continued

Certainly, having the Ohio State playing date written in red letters on the blackboard was an incentive and was a clear group goal. No one had to say or even verbalize the importance of that Ohio State game. It was simply understood. The expectation was great and the consequences were clear and the outcome could only be provided by this group of young men/ the team.

Bo understood this concept of group/team cohesiveness. Bo himself had great teachers and he learned from the best like Woody. Bo also surrounded himself with smart coaching minds and valued their input. Serving in the U.S. military no doubt contributed to his understanding of the dynamics of groups. Some people compare psychologically a football team’s cohesiveness to being in a foxhole with a buddy, within your company during battle with the enemy. Woody was a great field general and understood historical battles and taught his protégé Bo well.

Bo also knew about human learning, human development, group dynamics and motivation. He realized that external and situational factors play a part and create motivations which otherwise might not exist. He knew about focusing. He knew about expectations and probability of reward/ reinforcement. Bo also was cognizant of the fact that reinforcement (feedback) didn’t always have to be positive. In fact he knew when to talk disparagingly to his young troops. He was smart enough to realize that negative or critical feedback also works and influences behavior. He knew who could take it and who couldn’t. Some like Brandstatter heard comments, from the coaches, such as “you’re the worst tackle in the history of intercollegiate sports; “and “We wasted a scholarship on you;”   Bo called Gusich “a candy ass.”   By the way, candy ass co-captain Gusich was called by his teammates “the toughest dude on the team. “ When Bo told Keller “cut your hair.” Keller responded “baldness runs in my family and I am keeping my hair as long as possible.”   Bo also said, according to Seyferth something to the effect that, “I have the 10 worst players in college football.”

 

 Coach Schembechler’s assistant coaches realized (on their own) that these young man required positive interactive reinforcement. The assistant coaches knew that Bo was going to break the men down (mental toughness), so that he could rebuild them to excel at the highest level.  Within this situation, of being in a highly competitive big time Division 1 program, football players were obedient and eagerly followed directions( of an authoritarian, no- nonsense disciplinarian, tough- love father figure), the head coach during that era . In spite of Bo being, on the field, critical, these assistant coaches also knew that Bo was gentler with his young players, one-on-one, behind closed doors. The assistant coaches also knew that Bo (warm and fuzzy as an assistant under Woody) somewhat imitated Woody, when Bo became the man and ran his program.

It was okay with Bo that the assistant coaches would be the good guys, gentle, personable, friendly warm, who made football fun with their creative drills. Gary Moeller, for one, had his defensive men doing  end zone drills, laughing-having a good time while Bo’s offense were doing their not so fun  drills.  According to Frank Gusich, Dick Hunter was a good guy, and even fed Hunter’s kids lunch during his junior and senior seasons. During a practice/scrimmage session, Fritz Seyferth was discouraged by Bo’s criticism. However, assistant coach Jerry Hanlon would come by and pat him on the back and say “you are doing this right.” Did that ever sooth the wound.

To Be Continued

Bo's Warriors Chapter 1 Go Blue Go

Part 2       Continued               Go Blue Go

And with team bonding, team unity also influences positively the kind/type of personality each player was is developing. These players became less self-centered, and more caring and giving. These young men became less full of themselves. They cared a lot about each other.  Membership in the group was paramount for security, achievement, competitiveness   and status. As” the team” became more and more of a positive attraction, it became more cohesive and turned toward a collective “we.” Forget about “I” or “me.” Even when Fritz Seyferth, a starting fullback (had a Rose Bowl scoring touchdown) began sharing duties with a sophomore, he didn’t complain or say “poor me.” Fritz worked hard for the team.  Reggie McKenzie told the story about Preston Henry during one spring practice. During that particular practice, Henry, a running back, had to practice offensive maneuvers for both the first and second string offense for some 130 plays or so. After practice, everyone ran sprints, even Preston Henry.” We all felt sorry for him. “Absolutely no one on the team would have been upset if Preston Henry was excused from running wind sprints.” It’s highly unusual (unheard of) for one player to run that many plays in one practice or scrimmage session.

With cohesiveness, this team was able to mobilize its energies in their support of the group goals, which were to prepare self physically (even if doing exhausting, unintelligible exercises i.e. .slap and stomp), so that on the field performance (a win) would be second to none. Solidarity was important and expressed by the final core players that didn’t quit or leave the team. There was a sign, on the wall, that attempted to reduce the number of players from quitting and keeping only the toughest. It read   “those that stay will become champions.” A player (Pru man) who left the team added “those that leave will become captains of industry, lawyers and doctors.” Roughly, 75 or so players stayed with the team. They may have complained about some of the tactics employed by Bo, but stayed. In fact, a player or two would be talked out of quitting the team-Reggie McKenzie for one. Reggie went through a spell thinking that Bo was unfairly on his back. He was told” McKenzie men do not quit.” From that point on, Reggie showed Bo his character. His self-talk was something like” I’m not going to let Bo beat me. “

These young men became strongly motivated to contribute to the team’s welfare and advance its objectives versus me / my individual goals. As a team they became more cohesive; the more the individual players wanted to become part of the team, the more they liked/bonded with each other. They roomed/lived  together, took the same classes , socialized , partied,  got fixed up on dates by teammates, worked  at the same off season jobs   ,pledged the same fraternities , boycotted the same classes  and became inspired together.  They had common interests and belonging was important as they identified with something much bigger/larger than themselves (University of Michigan’s gridiron history).  Bo told them during the racial unrest on the campus that, according to Brandstatter, “we are one race-Michigan football; you guys are not about race; no one from the outside is going to get between us; race is not an issue. “ Keller remembered “son of a bitch you’re not red, you’re not white, you’re not blue-you’re Michigan.” Even Bo supported the Mellow Men’s (seven black football players) stand on boycotting (shutting it down) the Economics building during a campus demonstration.

As desirability of membership and being part of the team Increased, the greater the value of expectations or outcomes became apparent. It was significant that their need state for achievement, affiliation, competitiveness, recognition and security were being realized through team membership.

To be continued

Bo's Warriors - Chapter 1 Go Blue Go

                                                                       Bo’s Warriors

     

 

 Chapter 1 Go Blue Go

 

This read, is about the young men who played the game of football. The vehicle, in this case, is” the game “and its consequence. Some, might view this book as a defense for football in spite of the recent legitimate criticisms made about the game. The impact (scientifically measurable) of football and one game, in particular, is the focus here.  The explosion has likely touched millions. In fact, what happened in the fall, between gridiron rivals the University of Michigan and Ohio State University in 1969, still has tremors.

On a Saturday, the 22nd in November, the University of Michigan hosted the Ohio State University Buckeyes in Ann Arbor in front of 103,588 fans. At the time, Woody Hayes coached the nation’s unbeaten (22 games), defending national champions and number one college football team. This team was called the greatest of all time and compared to none other than the Minnesota Vikings. This Buckeye juggernaut was the” Goliath “   and the Wolverines the “David.” Woody Hayes believed this team was one of his best, if not his best. You know what happened between David and Goliath.

Even though playing at home, the Wolverines were 17 point underdogs to the monsters of Ohio.  Michigan had two early season losses, but were on a roll and entered the game with a 7-2 record. This Michigan team were led by a young, first-year coach named Bo Schembechler. Coach Schembechler told his team that if they couldn’t remember Schembechler, just call me “Bo.” Prior, Coach Schembechler was a head coach of Miami of Ohio, referred to, and had the reputation of the “cradle of coaches.” He brought with him young, talented, energetic and intelligent football minds. Gary Moeller, Jim Young, Chuck Stabart, Jerry Hanlon, Rick Hunter were some examples. These coaches were also at one time high school head coaches which some believe contributed to their understanding of how to better communicate, teach and motivate athletically gifted young men. And in fact, most became college head coaches.

Bo, was called, by many, a psychological genius for his ability to understand, teach, motivate, and to create the importance of” team.” He employed” brain washing” and drilled the concept of team which resulted in forming and creating “team cohesiveness.” It was about the team, the team, and the team. These young men became psychologically part of a group to which they belonged (bonded teammates). For example, Mike Taylor, a defensive All American specialist, got on Reggie McKenzie an offensive All American stalwart for dogging it/not blocking him hard during practice drills. He said to Reggie “come on, their watching you; don’t go through the motions.”

  Within their team practices/drills, the teammates began to identify with each other, and developed unity; their goals became interdependent, and in the process they formed aspirations/ expectations which became rewarding. However, as the teammates began to identify highly with the group and its goals;   they gained camaraderie and satisfaction with the attainment of a goal (not making a mental mistake) or for that matter dissatisfaction with failure (making a mental mistake) to reach the goal. But even under certain circumstances, failure to meet a group goal increased group bonding (like an early-season loss to arch rival Michigan State). When the teammates easily accepted a common goal (i.e. executing and minimizing mistakes of the” I” formation) and supported the actions required to reach it (practice, practice, practice, drill, drill, drill), teammates felt great and thrilled about the contributions of their teammates (a solid block, a hard hit tackle, or a key interception) toward the meeting and completion of the many and various goals.

To be continued

Bo's Warriors -Introduction Part 5

Bo’s Warriors -   Introduction continued   (5)

 

In 1935, in Ann Arbor, the Big Ten championship in track and field was hosted by Michigan. Within 45 minutes(of competition), Jesse Owens tied the 100 yard world record; and set world records in the long jump, 220 yard sprint and the low hurdles. In the Summer Olympics of 1936, held in Berlin, Germany with all the Nazi propaganda, in front about of Adolph Hitler, Jesse Owens won gold medals in the 100 and 200 m dash, the long jump and the 4 x 100 relay. Do not forget that there was racial segregation and discrimination at that time, even for this celebrated Olympian.

In basketball, Bobby Knight played on the 1960 NCAA championship winning Buckeye squad. As a head coach, he led his NCAA Division I teams to 902 victories which is currently third on this prestigious list of basketball coaches. Coach Knight also was victorious in three NCAA championship games and won 11 Big Ten titles. Bobby coached the 1984, men’s Olympic basketball team to gold as well. Currently he is a media basketball analyst.

Jack William Nicholas was born in Columbus, Ohio, on January 21, 1940. I’m sure that “the Golden Bear” remembered that 1969 Ohio State game with Michigan. This golfing legend has won 18 career major championships and has a total of 73 PGA tour victories during the process. On a side note, Tiger is chasing him as far as career majors go. Even if the Golden bear falls to number two, that doesn’t take away anything from his contribution to the golfing world.

On the gridiron, some All-Americans from the Buckeyes defeat in Ann Arbor in 1969 include Jack Tatum(1968, 1970), also known as “the assassin”; Rex Kern, quarterback(twice finished in the top 5 for Heisman voting); Jim Otis, fullback(scored four touchdowns in that 1968 blowout against Michigan); safety Mike Sensibaugh 1970, defensive back who has the most career interceptions; middle guard Jim Stillwagon 1969, 1970, two-time All-American defensive lineman, who won both the Outland and the Lombardi trophy; Tim Anderson defensive back 1970; John Brockington, fullback, 1970; Jan White tight end, 1970.

Two other OSU football-All-American and Heisman winners include two time winner running back Archie Griffin 1974, 1975 and running back Eddie George, 1995. NFL Hall of Fame greats include: Howard “Hopalong” Cassidy, half back 1954-1955; Jim Parker, 1955-1956; wide receiver Cris Carter, 1986; Chris Spielman, 1986-1987 to name just a few from their impressive list.

Back to the Buckeyes and the Wolverines on the gridiron. These two colleges have played 108 football games between themselves. Michigan has been the overall winner 58 times with 6 ties. Ohio State University has 44 victories in the series. Michigan has attained 42 Big Ten championships compared to Ohio State’s 34. As far as national championships go, Michigan holds title 11-7. The Wolverines overall record is 903 wins, 315 losses and 36 ties for a .734 winning percentage. Ohio State University has 837 victories for a .716 winning percentage in their illustrious history. The Buckeyes have 7 Heisman Trophy winners and the Wolverines 3. The Buckeyes have 42 bowl appearances, while the Wolverines have 41. Yes, Michigan’s “Big House” seats over 111,000 compared to OSU’s “The Shoe” which seats over 102,000. And in 2010, the Wolverines averaged 111,823 in attendance, an NCAA record and has the largest crowd of 113,823 also an NCAA record. The regional and national rivalry between these two great universities is simply legendary.

Philanthropy

On a lighter side, the Phi Gamma Delta (FIJI) chapters at Michigan and Ohio State came up with a creative way to give back during “the rivalry.” This rivalry has been called the greatest in North American sports and the fraternity takes advantage in a positive way.

The Ohio State chapter has adopted the Stephanie Spielman (all American Chris’s wife) fund for breast cancer research, while the Michigan chapter donates to the American Cancer Society. They decided to run a relay. One chapter (visiting team) carries an official game ball from their football Stadium, to the home team Stadium. In essence, both chapters meet in Findlay, Ohio, and pass (visitors) the ball to the other (home team) chapter to carry and arrive before Saturday’s kickoff. The distance covered, between the two stadiums, is roughly 187 miles and takes the students over 30 hours to go from one Stadium to the other. Way to go fellow Greeks. As an alumni of Sigma Alpha Mu, I applaud your spirit and you’re giving back to society.

And now the story.

It Has Nothing To Do With Age or Gender with guest Martin Hoffman MD

Bo's Warriors-Part 4

                                            Introduction of “Bo’s Warriors” to be continued (4)

Michael Fred Phelps11, collected 22 Olympic medals, of which 18 are gold. He was a world record holder in the 100 m butterfly; 200 m butterfly and 400 m individual medley. Michael has attained more Olympic medals than anyone else, and has doubled the number of the individual second place record holder. He has also attained 71 international long course competition medals as well. There is still some mystery as to whether he will compete in the 2016 Summer Olympics. From 1900-2012, Michigan athletes have attained 149 Olympic medals, of which 72 are gold.

If you are a basketball junkie, you might remember Cazzie Russell’s exploits and his team’s battle with John Wooden’s UCLA Bruins in the NCAA championship game in 1965. In 1966, Russell was the college basketball player of the year and Michigan’s Crisler arena was referred to as “The House that Cazzie Built.” Mr. Russell was also the number one pick in the NBA draft.

Another Michigan All-American, 1970, Rudy Tomjanovich (Jersey was retired by Michigan) both played and coached in the NBA. This five time NBA All-Star coached the Houston Rocket’s to two consecutive NBA titles. He was also the head coach for the USA men’s gold medal basketball team in the 2000 Summer Olympics.

Michigan great Glenn Rice (Michigan’s leading career and single-season scorer) led the Wolverines to a national title in 1989. He won an NBA title in 2000 with the Los Angeles Lakers. In the NCAA tournament, Glenn was selected and received the tournament’s most outstanding player award. He was a fourth player selected in the NBA draft, and recently had his Jersey retired from the University Michigan.

More recently, in the 1990s, “The Fab Five” (Chris Webber, Juan Howard, Jalen Rose, Ray Jackson and Jimmy King) led the Wolverines to two consecutive NCAA championship games. Webber, Rose and Howard were All-Americans and these three had tremendous NBA careers. Currently, Webber and Rose are NBA TV analysts. In 2012-2013 Trey Burke (NCAA player of the year) and Tim Hardaway Jr. led the Wolverines to the championship game against Louisville. Both were drafted in the first round and play in the NBA.

When Wolverine football began in 1879, Rutherford B Hayes, was the 19^th Pres. of the United States. Pres. Hayes served one term. He was born in Delaware, Ohio; was a Congressman and a two-term Gov. of Ohio as well. He assumed the presidency, even though we lost the popular vote, with 20 contested electoral college votes. Several the issues of the day related to the end of reconstruction; the great railroad strike; the coinage of silver as it relates to gold; and the Monroe doctrine In reference to the Panama Canal. And, Michigan is playing football?

In 1925, 26, 27, Michigan’s Benny Oosterbaan was an All-American during those three years and also had his Jersey retired. Tom Harmon was an All-American halfback in 1939, and a Heisman winner in 1940. His Michigan number was also retired. Ron Kramer, was an All-American end in 1955 and 56, and also had his number retired. Our 38^th president, Gerald Ford played center and was an All-American too.

More recently, other Michigan All-Americans, NFL greats, and Super Bowl champions include Ty Law(1994) of the New England Patriots; Desmond Howard(1991) of the Green Bay Packers; Charles Woodson(1996, 1997) of the Green Bay Packers and Oakland Raiders and Jim Harbaugh(1986) who coached the San Francisco 49ers in the 2013 Super Bowl. And last but not least, Tom Brady three time winner(New England Patriots) of the Super Bowl.

The Ohio State University Buckeyes aren’t too shabby either. This great University, located in Columbus, Ohio, was founded in 1870 and currently ranked 56 among national universities in this country. The Scarlet and Gray has a third-largest University campus in the United States and the 18^th largest University research library in North America.

Ohio State is one of four universities(the others-University of Michigan, Stanford and University of California-Berkeley) to have won national championships in men’s basketball, men’s baseball and football. Not only that, Ohio State is one of two, the other being, Florida to win national championships in the same calendar year in men’s football and basketball

It Has Nothing To Do With Age and Gender with guest Meghan Arbogast

Bo's Warriors- Introduction

 

                                                              Introduction to be continued   Part 3

 

I am settled on a title for my manuscript - Bo’s Warriors. Today’s post continues the introduction to my upcoming soon-to-be published book.

Was Don Canham that smart or should it be apparent to anyone about Bo’s potential to teach and motivate young men in this macho sport of American football?

For those of you that do not know the story, Bo became the winning est coach in Michigan football history with a 194-48-5 record from 1969 through 1985, and at the time, retired as the winning est football head coach in the nation. Bo was also voted Big Ten coach of the year and national coach of the year by both the Football Coaches Association and the Football Writers Association. Bo was now elite and a football legend.

What about and what do we know about the football coaching genius Wayne Woodrow “Woody” Hayes?” Woody started his coaching career at Miami of Ohio. Other notables that started their career at this University included Paul Brown, Pro Football Hall Of Fame; Ara Parseghian, national college football champion Notre Dame 1966 in 1973 and College Football Hall of Fame 1980; Weeb Ewbank, Pro Football Hall of Fame 1978; Bill Mallory, Indiana Hall of Fame 1993 and Sid Gillman, Pro Football Hall of Fame 1983 and was ranked by ESPN, as one of the 20 greatest NFL coaches.

Woody, the legendary genius, was the head coach at Ohio State University from 1951 through 1978. During that time, Lieutenant Navy Commander Hayes won five national championships in 1954, 1957, 1961, 1968, and 1970. Woody’s teams won 13 Big Ten conference titles and he compiled a 205-61-10 coaching record.

According to Buckeye co-captain Gary Moeller, “Woody, hated the media.” He told us players “if anyone comes up to you and tells you how good you are blah blah blah punch them in the nose, unless it’s your parents.” The blemish on Woody’s resume was his interaction, with Clemson’s Charlie Bauman. Charlie intercepted an Ohio State pass (thrown by quarterback art Schlichter) sealing Ohio State’s loss. A physical altercation quickly followed when Woody assaulted this Clemson middle guard, in 1978, Gator Bowl. Woody Hayes, the legend was quickly dismissed, lost his coaching position, and never coached again. I don’t believe that coach Hayes ever apologized to Clemson’s Bauman. However, I wouldn’t expect that he would. Would you?

During the 10 year rivalry (war) between Ohio State and Michigan, either Bo Schembechler or Woody Hayes, either won or shared the Big Ten conference title between themselves. No other Big Ten school would win the conference title during their decade of battle. Not only that, both Michigan and Ohio State placed in national rankings every year during this rivalry. Clearly, the battles between Bo and Woody and Michigan and Ohio State reached national significance. Their battles became legendary, their teams dominated and their players became media and household names.

A number of you might be thinking what is so special about the University of Michigan? And why should we care about the game of football? And, more specifically, what difference does it make as to the final score on the football field between the Buckeyes and Wolverines? These are just a few the questions that you might be thinking at this time.

Did you know, the University of Michigan was founded in 1817? Doing the math, I come up with 197 years as of 2014. That makes my University older than Ohio State’s. Since its founding, the University of Michigan is considered one of the top universities of the world. It’s not only a multi ethnic public institution of higher learning, it also has reached unequaled achievement in research.

As far as sports are concerned at the University of Michigan, intercollegiate competition began in 1865-1866. Historically, this means going back to Abraham Lincoln, the civil war, and the freeing of African-Americans. For some reason, intercollegiate sports, and fighting for equal rights and economic interests between the North and South do not seem to be correlated. In reference to the recent movie “Lincoln,” I’m picturing rugged living, political shenanigans, manipulation, young men dying and the death of a great American. Sports do not come to mind, let alone football.

Michigan has more NCAA Division I national titles in both hockey, in men’s swimming and diving than any other University of Division I status. Their prize swimmer was Michael Phelps.

To be continued

It Has Nothing Do With Age Or Gender with Guest John Brain

Players Mental Toughness with Bo Schembechler-Part 2

                                                                 Introduction Continued

Don Canham  has an illustrious Michigan athletic and coaching history as well. Don obviously felt confident that he could weather out the storm he initiated. To ease some feathers, he offered Bump a position in the athletic department as Assistant Athletic Director.

Don Canham lettered in track at the University of Michigan from 1939-1941. In 1940, he held the NCAA title in high jump and was an All-American. From 1949-68, he was the track and field coach for the Wolverines. He led them to 12 Big Ten Conference Championships, of which seven(7) were indoor and five(5) were outdoor. His Michigan track team also set world records in both the 4 mile relay and the distance medley relay. Yes, he too was impressive as an athlete and as a track and field coach .

From 1968-88,Athletic Director Canham rebuilt and solidified Michigan’s dominance as a sports powerhouse. In fact, under his stewardship, Michigan’s Wolverines teams amassed 72 Big Ten championships. Behind his marketing and promotional leadership, the attendance for Michigan football reached unheard of heights. Since 1975, the average attendance for 186 home football games averaged more than 100,000. And from 1973 through 2004, Michigan, led the nation, in football attendance 30 out of 31 times. Throughout the land, the Michigan Stadium is known as the “Big House.” Canham, used his business skills as a marketer, promoter and fundraiser talents wisely. In fact, he was a first-ever to incorporate a direct mail advertising program to solicit attendees for football and other sports at the University Michigan. This genius won many awards as an athletic director; his counsel with sought by many; and his model was imitated throughout NCAA sports. This icon set the bar very high and redefined the position of athletic director.

Who was this 39-year-old man from Ohio named Bo? What did Don Canham, realize, at the time, that others did not? Was Don really a genius or was he just lucky? Maybe the planets were aligned since this was the Age of Aquarius. Well, Bo was born in Barberton, Ohio. Was there  significance in where he was born? Maybe, just maybe, being from a rural farmland area suggests that Bo knew about the world of hard, physical work first hand. What about the fact that he played football, tackle position, in high school and achieved all-state honors? Okay, he was a very good high school football player and played in one powerful football milieu within our country. Terrific football and other sports are played, at exceptional levels, in this state. So far we have a combination of a young man knowing about hard work, playing a team sport and excelling in the sport of football. Further, we know, that he attended college at Miami of Ohio, played offensive tackle in football and lettered in 1949 and 1950. Now we know, that he can learn, he can follow direction, he likes game of football, he is teachable, and he made a significant contribution to his teams.

Bo Schembechler was forming and curing the foundation for what was  to follow. This might interest you as the dots start to be connected. You might ask, and/or might be curious as to who coached, Bo in college? If you’re football fan, you certainly know the name Sid Gilman. Mr. Gilman was considered a football man ahead of his time as far as offense was concerned, and some will say, was the architect of today’s West Coast offense. You might be surprised to find out that his other coach was the one and only Woody Hayes. Really, you might say, this young man was playing for, and learning from the best of the best and he didn’t have to travel very far from home to do it. I’ll wager that Bo learned a lot from both of those men and his impressionable young mind was being shaped and sharpened, especially offensive football philosophy.

After college, Bo went into the service and learned more about discipline, giving direction, following direction, order, group cohesion and working together for a common cause. This young military man also coached as he was serving his country. Bo was developing even more insight into the social psychology of human behavior and group dynamics: thank you.

Bo, after service, enrolled at Ohio State to get a Masters degree  in education and became a graduate assistant under head football coach Woody Hayes. Bo, being intelligent, reconnected with his mentor. Bo spent the next five years with Woody learning more under this master coach. Bo Schembechler was paying his dues. In fact, while being a line position coach, he coached a young man named Gary Moeller who was a team Captain  on Woody’s undefeated 1963 team. Co-captain Gary later became Coach Gary Moeller.

Bo coached at a number of other colleges(Presbyterian, Bowling Green, and Northwestern) before becoming the head coach at Miami of Ohio. At Miami of Ohio University, he compiled a 40-17-3 record from 1963-1968. During his  coaching career as an assistant , coach Schembechler learned from and with another football legend by the name of Ara Parseghian. Mr. Parseghian reached fame and legendary status as the head coach at Notre Dame. By now, it must be clear, to you, that Bo was being trained by not only the best minds in football, he’s been given the opportunity to implement what he has learned. Up to this point, he’s moving rapidly up the coaching ladder with determined motivation. Can you predict at this point, how high he will climb and what he will become?

 

                                                              Introduction to be continued  

Players Mental Toughness with Bo Schembechler

The following few posts are from my next book “  Players Mental Toughness with  Bo Schembechler.”

 

                                                                               Introduction

 

Was it a tidal wave, a giant tsunami, a nuclear explosion or earthquake when announced, in 1968, by the media, that Glenn Edward “Bo” Schembechler was named as the head football coach at the University of Michigan by first year athletic director Don Canham. And that Chalmers W. “Bump” was not expelled from the University but was being transferred (booted) from head football coach to assistant athletic director. Was it true? I can’t believe what I just heard; it obviously must be a mistake. How could this have happened to the beloved Bump Elliott? This couldn’t possibly set well with Bump. I’ll wager that his team, his recruits and his Michigan friends were not happy or thrilled with this news.

And, all this was going on within the tumultuous uprisings of the 1960s. There was the pill; Detroit and Watts race riots; the Vietnam War; the Black Panthers; gay and lesbian rights; ban the bomb; and political assassinations  etc. going on campuses throughout the United States and especially at the University of Michigan. That infamous announcement in late December 1968, still resonates and has implications even today (Michigan football continues to set NCAA attendance records).

For those of you not cognizant, the well-respected Bump Elliot was a Michigan football legend. Bump first lettered in football, baseball and basketball at Big Ten rival Purdue University. He left Purdue, before graduating, to serve (called up in 1944) his country. Bump became a Marine Lieut.(saw duty in China) and after his service; instead of going back to Purdue to finish his studies, he enrolled at the University of Michigan, and joined his brother Pete in the Michigan football backfield. He was coached by Mr. Fritz Crisler. Only this time, this handsome Marine became nationally known as one of the “Mad Magicians” in the Wolverine backfield. He was a spark plug that propelled the Wolverines to a big nine title in 1947, and also to a Rose Bowl victory, January 1, 1948, over the USC Trojans 49-0. On top of that, he received individual honors as he was named All-American (1947) By the American Football Coaches Association. This Marine Lieut. excelled on the gridiron, just ask the Trojans.

11 years later, after initially coaching football at other colleges, coach Elliott was named the Wolverine football head coach in 1959 by athletic director, Fritz Crisler, his former head coach another Michigan football legend. And in 1964, the Mad Magician coached his Wolverine squad to a Big Ten title and to a Rose Bowl victory over Oregon University on January 1, 1965. His overall head coaching record (wins-losses-ties) at the University of Michigan was 51-42-3 for a .547 winning percentage. Do not lose sight of the fact or for that matter forget that Bump recruited such players as Jim Mandich, All-American end in 1969; Tom Curtis, All-American defensive back in 1969; Henry Hill, All-American guard 1970; Dan Dierdorf, All-American tackle 1970; Billy Taylor, All-American halfback, 1971; Reggie McKenzie, All-American guard 1971; Thom Darden, All-American defensive back 1971; Mike Taylor, All-American linebacker 1971; Mike Keller, All-American linebacker 1971; Jim Brandstatter, all Big Ten tackle 1971; Jim Betts, defensive back 1970; Frank  Gusich, defensive back 1971; Bruce Elliott, academic All-American and defensive back 1971 and numerous other notables.

 

 

After the 1968 football season, Coach Elliott was removed by A.D. Don Canham, in spite of  leading his  Wolverines to an 8- 2 record. However, in that final game of his last Michigan coaching assignment, 43 year old (born 1/30/25 in Detroit), Bump’s Wolverines were pitted against none other than Woody Hayes’ Ohio State Buckeyes. In that game, the halftime score was 14-14 with the outcome in doubt. However, at the games end, the final score left no suspense, as the numbers were Ohio State 50-Michigan 14. Before you ask, how did that happen, there’s more to the story? To make that embarrassment worse or to rub Michigan’s face in the mud, Coach Woody Hayes went for a two-point conversion on Ohio State’s last touchdown in the closing minutes of the game. When sportswriters wondered and asked “Woody, why did you go for two points on your last touchdown?” Woody’s reply was direct, clear and to the point, “because I couldn’t go for three.” That reply tells you and suggests all you need to know about head coach Woody Hayes’ competitive nature. Aside from Woody’s competitiveness spirit, someone said “Woody just poured gasoline on that rivalry.” And the match was lit and the flame became hotter and hotter.

During Coach Elliott’s reign, Michigan’s football attendance was poor by Michigan standards. In fact, their average attendance was roughly 67,000 which was substandard due to the size of their Stadium. Did Bump deserve to be fired by first year A.D. Don Canham? You be the judge. Just ask, how long or how much time could pass before Coach Elliott, who viewed his removal as a slap in the face, work under/or in concert with Don Canham? Well, how about from 1969-70, when Bump left being assistant A.D. after one year to become the athletic director at another Big Ten school, the University of Iowa, of course a Michigan rival.

Not only did A.D. Don Canham, not hesitate to remove All-American Bump  Elliott, as football coach, he made a second decision quickly and hired a young, fiery and spirited Bo Schembechler (an Ohioan, no less) to replace the Mad Magician. This quick decision, the story goes, that it took Canham just a 15 minute conversation between him and Bo Schembechler at a restaurant no less, to offer Bo the prestigious Michigan head coach position. You might not be surprised that it took Bo less than 15 minutes to accept the offer. Just how much can you eat (if not in an eating contest) and/or to discuss the business of the day within just 15 minutes? A fly on the wall could tell who did the majority of the talking. Who do you think did the majority of the talking? What exactly was Mr. Canham seeking from this unknown young man? How did Canham envision Michigan football?

 

To be continued.

It Has Nothing To Do With Age or Gender with guest Dennis Scott

It Has Nothing To Do With age or Gender with guest Dan Barger

Jed Smith 50 Km Orcas Island 50 K and Mental Toughness

"Great minds have purposes, little minds have wishes."
– Washington Irving

On Saturday, February 1, I ran the Jed Smith, 50 km race. My goal was to run it faster than last year. Chris Turney accompanied me and ran with me for the first two laps. At the end of the first two laps, I was on pace to break the US 50 Km race record for my age group. I felt good and was running strong. Then, starting the third loop, I was joined by Susan Smyth, who was running the 30 K. I started to feel a little tired and ran a slower third loop. My fourth loop was a little slower and I was more tired, starting loop five. Chris joined me again at that point.

As I was tiring, I began to think about shorter-term goals and re framing. For instance, I thought about the distance to be completed and said I “ only” have about 10 more miles; I “only” have about five more miles to go. The keyword here is “ only “ as I wanted to minimize, in my mind, that distance. Running with a friend (affiliative), also helped as we had a chance to talk about many different things. I also paid attention to my body(mindfulness) to determine  discomfort as well as to my breathing and running form.

Having a goal, employing mindfulness, re framing and meeting affiliative needs is very important and assisted me in running this 31 mile event faster this year than I did last. These concepts are significant parts of my definition of mental toughness that I incorporate when needed. My second book will apply my mental toughness  concept to those 1969 University of Michigan football players that beat the Ohio State Buckeyes on that memorable November.

This Jed Smith race was sponsored by  the Buffalo Chips running club. Chris introduced me to some of his  compatriots  that I invited to be guests on “It Has Nothing to Do with Age or Gender”  TV show. Look for these runners down the road.

Tony called from Washington State after he completed his very difficult 50 Km trail run. He said he ran the first 21 miles well and then tired, climbing the mountain. He finished and predicted his time accurately. I’m sure I’ll hear more of his story this week. Well done Tony. I told him that Chris and I went to Baskin-Robbins for our reward  and he told me that he was going for ice cream too.

From Tony: I decided to do something more adventures and went to Orcas Island to do a 50 K. Had to be the toughest 50 K I have ever done. All I can say is I finished and had a great time. Rain Shadow Running puts on a great party and great run to go with it.
For inspiration here is a report from one of the other runners Edward Lychik I think you will find his story quite remarkable.

http://edwardlychik.wordpress.com/2014/02/03/orcas-island-50k-grizzley-bears-great-people/

On Sunday. Linda and I hosted another Super Bowl party and watched the Seattle Seahawks blowout.

 Remember to keep moving, smiling, laughing, deep breathing and appreciating while you can.

Enjoying Sex,Jed Smith,Way too Cool and Tappering

"Man's mind, once stretched by a new idea, never regains its original dimensions."
– Oliver Wendell Holmes Jr

On January 25^th, Tony, Chris and I ran the first part of a Way too Cool training run at the Olmsted in Cool. The distance was roughly 8 miles, and we covered that distance quickly. I am pleased about how I am running and I know Tony is pleased about his running as well.

  On January 26, we started celebrating Randall’s 59^th birthday with a trail run. The plan was to run from Cronin ranch to the Salmon Falls Bridge about 8 1/2 miles. Randall, Madhu, Farah, Chris, Tony and I started our run there. Since Tony and I are tapering for our 50 K ( Jed Smith  for me) (Orcas Island 50K for Tony), we didn’t push, to the limit, during that run. Diane met us at the Salmon Falls Bridge after the run.  Madhu, who is not tapering, ran back to the Cronin ranch. His brother asked him to join him in a 100 K Quicksilver run in May. Madhu, said he hasn’t committed as of yet.

This evening, we are having a birthday dinner celebration and will be joined by additional friends.

On another note, an article in the October 22, 2013 edition of the Wall Street Journal identified some reasons for having sex. The University of Toronto researchers identified the following: 1. Self-Focused Approach (to pursue a positive outcome for yourself, such as personal pleasure, or to feel closer to your partner) 2. Self-Focused Avoidance (to evade a negative outcome for yourself, for example, wanting to not feel guilty about saying “no” to sex) 3. Partner-Focused Approach (to achieve a positive outcome with your partner, like greater closeness or to make the partner feel good) 4. Partner-Focused Avoidance (to avoid conflict with your partner and prevent him or her from feeling angry or disappointed)

108 heterosexual dating couples completed a survey, and the results were as follows. On  days when a  person’s motivation to have sex is more positively oriented, he or she felt more satisfied-both in  the relationship and sexually-and had a higher level of desire. Conversely, on days when someone was motivated to have sex by more negative goals, he or she felt less satisfied and less desire.

Further, a person’s sexual motivation affected his or her partner’s gratification. When someone had sex for positive reasons, the partner felt more desire and relationship satisfaction. When someone had sex or negative reasons, the partner felt less satisfied in the relationship and less sexually satisfied.

Consider, checking out with your partner, motivation for having sex employing the 4 typical motivations listed above. And, in doing so, evaluate how that relates to the findings of the sex survey also listed above. Hopefully, you are on track for more and better sex. If so, you’re likely to be happier.

In addition, keep moving, laughing, smiling, deep breathing, bonding, loving and employing appreciation.

It Has Nothing To Do With Age Or Gender with guest Jack Sholl

It Has Nothing To Do With Age or Gender with guest Mo Bartley

Seattle Seahawks ,University of Michigan and Chris Turney

“ Character is simply habit long enough continued.”-Plutarch

On January 16, Tony and I interviewed our friend and running partner Chris Turney on “It Has Nothing to Do with Age or Gender.” Chris told us about how his running started at an early age. His running continued In college, and certainly after his college years. His running comrades , at the time, were world-class runners like Dennis Rinde, Jim Howard and others. In the early 1980s, things changed for Chris. At that time, he was introduced to a sport called ride and tie. In fact, he was crewing for his friend Jim Howard’ s team.

Chris was excited and wanted to participate in the sport. However, at the time he did not know how to ride  a horse. Luckily, he had assistance along the way from Dave Poston, Jeff Windenhausen , Pat Browning and others . Chris credits his  ride and tie experience as contributing, to his running improvement. This 2:26 marathoner also ran 50 miles of trail in 5:51. Chris also has two sub 24-hour Western states 100 completions. For more, see our interview : http://youtu.be/51PV9tsKECA

 

This past Sunday, Tony, Linda, Nails and I ran the Olmsted loop. Tony then ran back to his home; Linda put Nails in the horse trailer to take him home ; and  I  ran the trails home. I made it back to my home in time to catch the Broncos beating the Patriots. Then, Linda and I went to Lon and  Cheryl’s(along with Chris, Michelle and Rich ) and watched  the 49ers lose to the Seahawks.

So instead of getting to watch Tom Brady New England Patriots’  (former University of Michigan quarterback )compete against Jim Harbaughs' San Francisco 49ers ( former University of Michigan quarterback) in this year’s Super Bowl, I am  disappointed to say, that I’ll watch two other teams compete.

My current project is a book that comprises  mental toughness, bonding and a college football rivalry between the 1969  Michigan Wolverines coached by Bo Schembechler against Woody Hayes, Ohio State Buckeyes. In my book, you’ll learn about Mike Keller an NFL player who  helped build the Seattle Seahawks expansion team. You will  also learn about ex-Seattle Seahawk coach Chuck Knox, who brought  Reggie McKenzie(Buffalo Bills, all Pro) with him to play in Seattle. With Reggie, this expansion team made it to the postseason  for the first time game.

Those former University of Michigan All-Americans are part of the Seattle Seahawk history. In fact, Reggie informed  me that he is rooting for the Seahawks and I am rooting for the Seahawks in this year’s Super Bowl too.

In the meantime, keep moving, laughing, smiling, deep breathing, bonding, and loving and expressing gratitude as I recommend it.

It Has Nothing Top Do With Age OR Gender

Running Without Pain

"Pain is a part of being alive, and we need to learn that. Pain does not last forever, nor is it necessarily unbeatable, and we need to be taught that."
– Harold Kushner

Last Thursday, on It Has Nothing to Do with Age or Gender, our TV guest was  none other than ultra runner Madhu Avasarala. Madhu, born in Bangalore, India migrated to this country in the early 1980s to complete a Masters degree in engineering at Howard University. At the time, he was running to stay in shape, and only ran 10 km road races. It was only when he completed his Masters and took a position  in the Bay Area, that he was introduced to ultra trail runs.

Upon returning to India for visiting his family, Madhu  created the first ultra run in Bangalore, India. This well read, lover of music is also a vegan. Being a vegan was part of his growing up in India, and he’s continued it since. Madhu , at an early age, was introduced to Americana through the movies. And once he arrived in the Washington DC area, he acclimated himself very well. To learn more about him and his lifestyle visit   http://youtu.be/wVPNMKeK3is  .

Sunday, Tony and I in preparation for our 50 km trail runs. Ran from my home to the quarry  trail, crossing Highway 49 twice, ran along the river, up  American River Canyon and returned back to my home. Tony was ahead of me and added additional trail totaling about 25 miles. I likely ran about 23 ± trail miles. About halfway, I met Linda, changed some of my clothes and got additional supplies. I told her  at that point that I was feeling great.

After my run, I was surprised about my energy level. I know that I’m running faster based on clock time than I have in a number of years. In thinking about my running efficiency, I believe some of the variables  that have contributed to my change include: I haven’t experienced Achilles issues; I’m now running the hills and not worrying about my Achilles; my expectations(positive feedback) have changed in a positive direction; and I’m increasing my weekly mileage to more than  50 miles per week.

If I really wanted to run a lot faster, I would do track work. For me, there too many trail hazards , so, I run in a more controlled manner. I am looking forward to my 50 km Jed Smith run and expect to run that faster than last year. I’ll keep you posted. In the meantime, keep moving, smiling, laughing, deep breathing, bonding, and pay attention to gratitude.

It has Nothing To Do With Age Or Gender with guest Madhu Avasarala

Alcohol and Drug Addiction Treatment

Ruin and recovery  are found within.” -Epictetus

 

In the  December 24, 2013 edition of the Wall Street Journal,  there was an article about dealing with alcohol and drug addiction. As we all know, heavy use of alcohol and drugs affects the pleasure or reward centers of the brain which can lead to drive dependence. In the Journal of Internal Medicine, drug testing at the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism found that other centers of the brain are chemically affected as well. It seems that anxiety and tension are also associated with heavy drug and alcohol abuse. Simply put, feelings of anxiety and tension produced by drug and alcohol abuse can only be eased by more consumption. So we not only have dependency issues, we also have anxiety and tension to compound the problem.

So it’s not surprising that many of the drug and alcohol treatment’s ; for example medication’s have  been unsuccessful. Currently,  the pharmaceuticals are coming up with new medications to affect these neurotransmitters. So this might mean better living through chemistry.

Of course with any medication treatment, it is recommended that counseling or therapy be added as well. I would suggest adding movement or exercise to anyone who has a drug and/or alcohol dependency problem. Yes, prescription medication has great benefits along with psychotherapy. But it  seems to me, the body and not just the mind should be treated likewise. My approach is that a sound mind can lead to a sound body and a  sound body can lead to a sound mind. And I talk the talk and walk the walk.

Yesterday, Tony, Carrie , Porter(the dog) and I ran down  Brown’s Bar and up Maine Bar  for about a 10 mile or so trail run. Whatever you do, do not forget to keep moving, smiling, laughing, deep breathing, bonding, and having gratitude in order to live happier and longer.

The Evolving Brain

"A person who has never made a mistake has never tried anything new."
– Albert Einstein

 

We all know that exercise is important for well-being. And , exercise and movement are necessary and   especially important in order for our brain to continue to evolve. It is clear that  neurotransmitters such as serotonin, norepinephrine   and brain  opiates are influenced by exercise and physical activity. With that being so, without exercise, we increase the likelihood of a mood disorder, and/or  cognitive decline. So in order to reduce anxiety, reduce depression, elevate mood, improve memory and enhance your life, keep moving. Moving could consist of cardiovascular training and/or resistance training. And if you add proper nutrition to this formula, you’ll be able to do the unbelievable. In other words, you will surprise yourself.

On New Year’s Day, I ran my fourth consecutive 10 mile trail(Resolution) run in Auburn. And on the previous Sunday, I ran close to 20 miles on the trail and then I rested  Monday and Tuesday. For  the past 10 years or so, I started tapering 10 days prior to an event decreasing mileage on consecutive days. This time I deviated from my past routine. I didn’t know how the new training might affect my run on New Year’s Day. I am happy to say that I ran faster during this race than prior. You have to remember that I’m in the 70-99 age group.

Also, I am pleased to report that Tony also ran faster on race day.

I’m grateful that I have a good training partner to run with-that being Tony. Often overlooked as far as workouts, training , and exercise go, are  the psychological and social benefits of having an accomplice. With a training or running partner, it elevates competition, camaraderie, friendship and having things in common. And so what happens during training runs are movement, laughing, smiling, deep breathing, bonding, and even gratitude which all contribute to well-being. The secret is easy, it’s about the doing and that’s what happens between your ears.

It Has Nothing To Do With Age Or Gender with guest Jonathan Jordan