Hello All!
The following was taken from an MS newsletter, but the hints and suggestions 
given are just as important to us PPSers:
                          GROWING YOUR MEMORY
Memory is so important to us.  But like almost everything else, memory needs 
exercise.  Memory involves learning, filing, storing and retreiving 
information.  The keys to building long-term memory are concentration, 
organization, association, and practice.
Memory Boosters
Concentration:  The first step in building your memory is to improve your 
concentration.  Learn to focus your full attention on a subject, and practice 
being a better observer and listener.  Be objective.  Cut out distractions 
around you, and don't let your mind wander.  Repeat information you have just 
learned, and put it in your own words. Combine it with what you already know. 
 Ask questions to fill in the gaps.
Organization:  The more organized information is before you try to memorize 
it, it well be easier to retrieve.  Focus on key points. Categorize and give 
order to information whenever possible.  For example, a grocery list can be 
organized by where the items are in the supermarket.  If you lose the list, 
just walking down the aisles will help your memory.
Associations:  Look for relationships between things you know and things you 
need to remember.  This is very helpful for remembering ideas, names, 
numbers, or things.  Play word games.  Look for a pattern in a series of 
numbers.  Divide a series of numbers into smaller groups, or code them to 
spell words or phrases  Categorize items into lists.  This way, all you need 
to recall is the category - the specific items will come to mind.  Build a 
profile around a specific piece of information, so it can be put away in your 
memory as a full file of data - don't throw it in without clues to help you 
find it later.
Practice:  Exercise your memory by reviewing information regularly.  Use it 
and reuse it.  Add to it.  Try memorizing a few seconds' worth of song or a 
book, word for word.  Once you have it memorized try to speed up how fast you 
can remember it.  Next do the same thing with a larger piece.
Memory Tools
Habit:  Keep up useful habits; make new ones; or use old habits by 
piggybacking new ones onto them.  For example, if you know that you have to 
take a medication before bedtime and you always watch TV before going to 
sleep, place your medication on the TV set as a constant reminder.
Take notes:  This is the easiest way to organize information and it allows 
you to review it when needed.  Write down key ideas, put these ideas into 
your own words.  Test yourself by reviewing the key words and jotting down 
any additional information you may have learned.  Do it again the next day, 
then again in a week.  You'll be surprised at what you remember.
Keep lists:  There are some things you don't need to commit to long-term 
memory.  Mak a list of these items.  Check it and update it regularly. At the 
same time, take advantage of tools such as calendars, computers, alarms and 
other people, to help you remember the important things in your life.
Regards,
           Warren
---
(1:275/429)
---------------