Dynamic Mind

Dynamic Mind, written by Warren Chaney, is a book that explains in laymans’ terms, the implication and impact of the brain’s actions upon human activities. Particular interest is given memory and its subsequent influence on the , listening, and other cognitive process skills such as attention, evaluation, reasoning, problem solving, decision-making, and the production of language. The volume was considered an early pioneering effort that explained and used the theories and models of neuroplasticity before its concepts were widely recognized. As such, the book’s research and explanations are frequently quoted in other books, magazines, professional papers and Master’s thesis or Ph.D. dissertations.
Premise
The key premise of the book is that a majority of cognitive skills require some form of memory and that as the brain’s memory systems are improved, related skills of reading, listening, cognition, reasoning, and decision making are also enhanced. Using current neurological research, Chaney explains how intense cognitive training activities during even brief periods of time can radically improve one’s cognitive skills due to the brain’s ability to create new neurons throughout life, even into old age. He directly connects neuroplasticity with the need for continual cerebral training along with physical conditioning along with the proper use of diet and in some instances, supplementation.
Chaney further explores the influence of individual physical condition and one’s diet upon the brain and how it in turn, effects memory that subsequently impacts other major human activities. The author’s connective relationship between the brain, cognitive fuinctioning and neuroplasticity was considered groundbreaking at the time and the work was used in foundational studies for other ensuing research and publication. A second volume, "A Workbook for the Dynamic Mind" was written in order that both books could be used synonymously so as to aid readers in their grasp and assimilation of the more complex issues.
Synopsis
Following the explanation of the impact of human memory on the brain’s cognitive functions and ones’ understanding of the brain, historically, "Dynamic Mind" examines the brain and how it processes information. From the interior sections of the brain to its outside lobes, the cognitive processes of planning, problems solving, use of motor skills are explained and their interconnectivity are analyzed. The basic concepts of neuroplasticity are presented together with descriptions of neuron, neurotransmitter, and brain cell interactions that produce memory.
A model to explain memory is introduced together with details for memory processing, including both short, intermediate, and long term memories. How memories are encoded and stored together with cues for retrieval are discussed with the inclusion of specific goals for improving memory outcomes.
Associations
The text explains that “memory cues” are basic ingredients of memory and that memory retrieval is difficult, if not impossible, without them. The book’s author proceeds to present the brain’s underlying use of associations so as to ease and enhance learning. Developing involved attention and observation, coupled with creating effective associations in order to better store memories, is advanced as a major aid to memory. Particular attention is given to developing effective patterns which render material increasingly meaningful as well as improving the organization of pertinent information within the mind.
Memory Systems
Traditional systems of memory are presented along with newer research theories. However, Chaney unifies the memory systems as a whole, rather than independently as traditionally taught. Explicit exercises are provided to aid the reader in assimilating the systems and putting them to use in their own lives.
Reading Skills as a Memory Process
A historical review of reading skills coupled with the increasing decline of such skills (as of 2007) is explored with a continuing emphasis upon improving not just the number of words that are read, but, increasing both comprehension and retention of the material covered. Unambiguous mental blocks to reading and retention are examined and precise aids for their elimination are given. Improving the brain’s ability to focus and concentrate is viewed as essential to effective reading, listening and retention skills. Detailed techniques are provided for doing just that.
Distinct reading techniques are presented with an emphasis on pinpointing what works and what does not. Numerous skills and exercises are provided along with numeropius self-measurement tools to determine one’s progress.
Accelerated Memory Techniques
Accelerated memory techniques are provided the reader along with a strong emphasis upon improvement other related cognitive skills. Each subsequent technique builds upon itself until it reaches what Chaney terms a “master-memory system”, which while very complex if studied by itself, is made simpler by the author’s “build as you go” based upon what you have learned, strategies.
Deep processing of learned material is described in detail with an emphasis on moving normal short-term memories into long-term storage. Detailed exercises using emotion, rehearsal, and serial positioning of learned material is provided with accelerated levels of difficulty for each drill.
Listening as a Cognitive Skill
The basic skill of listening using improved and enhanced strategies for retaining what one listens to is provided. The author explains that, “…minimum listening skills produces minimum outcomes.” He examines the brain’s resistance to listening and how to overcome it. Advanced behavioral skills are designated including precise behavioral modification and personality transactional skills. Following a series of exercises, a number of strategies for handling certain listening problems are illustrated, including those for resisting distractions while focusing on central concepts that improve recall.
Memory Failure
Chaney describes memory as “the thing that we forget with” but in the process, analyzes specific normal and abnormal memory loss. Forgetting is described as a blessing and not necessarily a curse as memory failure is experienced. The practical and scientific basis for absentmindedness, memory decay, mental blocking and other memory disorders are considered together with definite aids for limiting such failures. The author then turns from the behavioral or psychological reasons for memory failure to the more serious physiological causes such as Alzheimer’s disease, pain, drug and alcohol abuse. Also discussed are brain injuries and stroke.
Aging as a gradual loss of cognition is considered, particularly the interactive impact of time, stress, drugs, chronic pain with the brain’s ability to properly function.
Physical Conditioning and Cognition
Throughout the "Dynamic Mind", proper physical conditioning is shown to have a positive influence upon all cognitive activities as well as positively influencing other physical activities such as sleep which in itself, influences cognition. Attention is given to conditioning routines that offer an effective but inexpensive way of improving the mind.
Food or Thought
The author points out that without the brain, little else in the body matters. Consequently, he discusses the importance of a brain-friendly diet and where necessary, supplementation for brain health. Identifiable examples of fast foods and their mounting negative effect on cognition is anlayzed along with supporting physical and scientific evidence. Food and supplementation myths are examined together with exaggerated claims frequently offered by supplement manufacturers.
Food nutrition is discussed throughout the book with explicit prohibitions against certain substances such as an overconsumption of sugars and starches. The advice tendered avoids opinion based commentary but relies almost exclusively upon current scientific and medical research.
Sleep and Cognition
Recent sleep studies and their implication for cognitive enhancement or failure is depicted as having wide reaching implications for many people who are sleep deprived. Sleep or the lack of it, is expressed as having a marked effect on one’s ability to retain and use information. The author points out that memory is reinforced as we sleep and weakens when it is missed. Sleeping is explained as helping support what is learned during the day, to be later played during slumber. Sleep strategies for those who have problems sleeping are illustrated with an emphasis on developing improved brain health. The impact of caffeine, video and other influences on sleep are examined and then coupled with precise strategies for sleep improvement.
Impact of Music on the Brain
Although music as been an artistic part of the world’s culture, it’s impact upon memory and cognitive behavior failed to generate interest, according to the author, until the last half of the 20th century. Neuroscientific studies of music and its ability to activate greater portions of the brain than most human activities, are analyzed, along with what science indicates may be done to “prime the brain’s” memory pathways for increased cognition.
In the "Dynamic Mind", music is shown to affect the neurological, psychological, and physical functions in such areas as learning, language processing, emotional expression, motor responses and memory. Relating to earlier discussions, music is demonstrated to help memory when associated with specific pieces of information. Where used correctly, music is viewed as enhancing memory and improving cognition.
Style
The book, "Dynamic Mind", is technical in content but written in a casual layman’s style that renders the contents understandable. Chaney also uses a mixture of humor, satire and common sense to make salient points.
Illustrations
"Dynamic Mind" is heavily illustrated using original drawings by the author along with salient photographs and graphics in order to explain and demonstrate the book’s more complex concepts.
Reception
Chaney’s book, "Dynamic Mind", was generally well received. Vincent D’Ascoli, DDS, wrote, "This is the first book on memory to bring the cutting edge of science to the public coupled with the first systemized memory program ever developed". The book was used as a text in many workshops conducted by cognitive research and training organizations and was considered by many medical practitioners to be groundbreaking.

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