Age is just a number

You’re never too old to learn – and doing so might just improve your health

- Kate Jones

Are you aware of the health benefits of doing something you’ve never done previously? According to a 2016 article published by Kate Rockwood on oprah.com, learning something new makes the brain build connections between neurons, while novel experiences deliver a rush of the ‘happy hormone’ dopamine.

The article also claims breaking routine can make time feel like it’s passing more slowly and that cultivating a growth mindset instead of a fixed one (‘I’ll get better!’ instead of ‘I’m hopeless!’) reportedly fosters resilience and perseverance. The NHS has even categorised learning new skills as one of five steps for improving mental health and wellbeing on its website, noting: ‘Research shows that learning new skills can improve your mental wellbeing by boosting self-confidence and raising self-esteem, helping you to build a sense of purpose [and] helping you to connect with others.’