The Brain Health Bulletin - March Edition
Welcome to the March edition of Holly’s monthly newsletter!
We’re excited to bring you the latest insights from Holly’s world—where brain health meets science and fun. This month is extra special as we celebrate Brain Awareness Week from March 10th to 16th, a global campaign dedicated to promoting the importance of brain health and research. It’s the perfect time to dive deeper into how we can all support our cognitive well-being.
Our goal is to keep you informed and entertained with valuable tips, research, and discoveries.
Have an interesting article, resource, or video on brain health? Send it our way! We’d love to feature great finds in future editions.
Did You Know?
In a world filled with laptops, smartphones, and endless apps, it’s easy to overlook one of the most effective tools for memory and learning: handwritten notes.
Research shows that taking notes by hand isn’t just old-school — it’s scientifically proven to strengthen memory, improve focus, and deepen understanding. When we write by hand, our brains process information differently than when we type. It forces us to slow down, think critically about what we’re hearing or reading, and prioritize key details. This extra level of engagement helps create stronger memory pathways and boosts long-term retention.
A recent study even found that students who handwrite their notes perform better on tests and show greater conceptual understanding compared to those who type. But it’s not just for students — adults can reap the benefits too! Handwritten note-taking supports brain health, helps in organizing thoughts, and can even enhance creativity.
✨ Quick Tip: Next time you’re in a meeting, attending a class, or reading something important — grab a pen and notebook instead of your keyboard. Your brain will thank you!
Want to dive deeper into how handwriting supports memory and learning?
Holly Bardutz Invited to Speak for the Alzheimer Society - Join the Conversation
We’re excited to share that the Alzheimer Society of Saskatchewan has invited Dr. Holly Bardutz to present as part of their 2025 Healthy Brains Community Presentation focused on gaining insights into maintaining brain health and reducing your risk of dementia.
Holly’s talk will focus on the importance of brain health and the Neuroscience of Stress, providing practical strategies to strengthen cognitive resilience and well-being. This is a fantastic opportunity to learn directly from Holly and gain insights into maintaining brain health while navigating the challenges of caregiving.
Although this is a free event, all guests attending must be registered.
Event Details:
Date & Time: Thursday, March 20th, 2025 at 7:00 pm (CST)
Location: Online via Zoom
Holly's team does not run this event, but we are happy to support her and ensure everyone has access to her amazing knowledge.
Neurogenesis How Your Brain Continues to Grow and Adapt
For years, scientists believed that the adult brain was incapable of growing new neurons. However, research has since revealed that neurogenesis—the process of generating new brain cells—continues throughout life, particularly in key areas like the hippocampus, which is responsible for memory, learning, and emotional regulation.
Why does this matter? Neurogenesis plays a vital role in maintaining cognitive function, adapting to new experiences, and even protecting against age-related decline. Factors such as physical exercise, proper nutrition, mental stimulation, and social engagement have been shown to enhance neurogenesis, supporting long-term brain health.
This BrainFacts.org article provides a fascinating look at how neurogenesis works, what influences it, and why it’s a critical part of lifelong brain health. Whether you're interested in optimizing cognitive performance or simply keeping your mind sharp as you age, understanding neurogenesis is key.
Read the full article here: Neurogenesis: An Overview
Stay curious, keep learning, and nurture your brain!
Meditation for Beginners Returns!
Missed the first round of Meditation for Beginners? No worries, we’re bringing back our Supportive Meditation Course this April!
Whether you're new to meditation or looking to deepen your practice, this four-week series is designed to help you cultivate mindfulness, reduce stress, and strengthen your mental well-being.
Each week, we will explore a key theme that will guide paid subscribers toward meditating for longer periods, while fostering calm and mindfulness in everyday life.
Check the details and don’t miss this great opportunity: Purchase Your 4-Session Pass Here
Recent Research - By Holly Bardutz
My latest research from the Brain Health and Wellness Lab at the University of Regina delves into the critical connection between exercise and sleep quality in individuals living with Parkinson’s disease. In collaboration with my dedicated research team, we explored how targeted physical activity can improve sleep patterns, ultimately enhancing overall well-being for those managing this neurological condition.
The mini-review, titled “Effect of exercise on sleep quality in Parkinson’s disease: A mini-review” by Shafiq et al., highlights how regular exercise plays a vital role in improving sleep—offering new hope and strategies for individuals and caregivers.
Read the full study: BMC Neurology (2024)
Watch the video summary: YouTube
From Holly and all of us at Community & Company, we hope you’ve enjoyed this month's edition of The Brain Science Bulletin!
If you know someone who would find this newsletter helpful, feel free to share it with them. They can also join our mailing list by signing up at the bottom of our website’s Contact Page.
Thank you for being part of our community—we appreciate you! See you in the next edition.
Warm regards,
Holly Bardutz and the Community & Company Team
“You make your brain, then your brain makes you!”
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for medical concerns or treatment.
