When I was a kid, I always heard, “People never grow new brain cells,” which was often followed up by the fun fact, “Every seven to 15 years all of your cells have been replaced, so you’re essentially a brand new person!”
So, wait. Which is it?
Biology is confusing and complex, especially for somebody like me who isn’t trained in biology, but just like when you’re taking a true and false test as soon as you see absolutes like never and all it’s reasonable to be suspicious of the statement’s accuracy.
Many cells do indeed get replaced – more often than seven years in many cases – but there are also some cells that don’t get replaced such as the inner lining of your eye or your tooth enamel. While it does appear parts of your brain don’t regenerate new cells, there is growing evidence that neurogenesis (the growth and development of nervous tissue) does occur in at least one part of the adult brain: the hippocampus. This is structure that helps with learning, memory, mood and emotion.
Exciting, right?
What’s more exciting is that you can aid in the generation of new brain cells in the hippocampus! Diet and lifestyle have been shown to influence neurogenesis. While there are many behaviors and activities in that list, there are two in particular that stood out: learning and exercise. As an active recreation facility, the Manassas Park Community Center can help with both!
There are tons of opportunities to learn something new here at the community center! We have American Sign Language and Arabic if you’re looking to explore a new language. If you want to learn a craft, we have crochet and sewing classes. You can generate new brain cells and create a new outfit!
Neural stem cell researcher Sandrine Thuret, suggests that any activity that will increase blood flow to the brain should be beneficial so the plethora of fitness programs we have available should have you covered! Group exercise classes like boot camp and Zumba will definitely get your blood pumping. Our two new exciting classes, barre conditioning and salsa, merengue, and bachata classes, can help motivate you to exercise and help you learn something new. If sports are your preferred method of fitness, drop-in basketball , volleyball, and pickleball are great options that are available.
If you’re interested, give us a call at 703-335-8872 and ask our amazing front desk staff all about the programs we have available here at the Manassas Park Community Center – or maybe we should change our name to the Manassas Park Neurogenesis Center?
In any case, we’ll see you soon!
Recent Stories
The “Souper Bowl” returns to Historic Downtown Manassas for First Friday on February 7, 2025, with a sold-out crowd ready to sample soups from top local restaurants. Attendees will explore downtown, tasting a diverse selection of soups—from classic Tomato Basil Bisque to bold Pork Belly Ramen and Cocoa Cloud Dessert Soup—served at various businesses. Participants will vote for their favorite, crowning one soup the ultimate winner. With new contenders and returning favorites, the event promises a flavorful journey. Missed out this year? Stay tuned for next year’s Souper Bowl and more exciting First Friday events in Manassas.
Award-winning brand Always Flavored is relocating across the street from 610 to 619 Caroline St., with plans to open by March 31, 2025. The move allows for an expanded selection of hot sauces, seasonings, and gourmet products, plus tastings and events.
The announcement comes as the brand celebrates recent award wins:
Ritabeata’s Mild Sauce – 2nd place (International Flavor Awards)
Peri Peri Sauce – 3rd place (2025 Scovie Awards)
A grand opening celebration is planned.
In this Potomac Local News Podcast episode, host Uriah Kiser sits down with Craig Wade, President of the Prince William Association of Realtors, and Matthew Rathbun, President-Elect of the Fredericksburg Area Association of Realtors. They discuss the latest trends in the local real estate market, the impact of rising interest rates, and the challenges first-time homebuyers face in Northern Virginia.
The conversation also dives into the region’s housing inventory, with insights on the growing demand for homes and the lack of affordable options, especially in areas like Prince William, Fredericksburg, and Stafford. Craig and Matthew share their predictions for 2025, the future of smart growth, and the importance of balancing development with affordability.
Looking for a furry friend who can steal your heart? Look no further than Chloe, the 5-year-old Maremma Sheepdog, waiting for her forever home at the Prince William County Animal Shelter.
Chloe isn’t just any dog—she’s an Italian superstar in livestock protection, with a personality as impressive as her heritage. This lovable lady may have a calm and gentle demeanor, but don’t let her laid-back attitude fool you—she’s a heart-stealer extraordinaire!
Chloe is ready to charm her way into your home, and she’s patiently waiting for someone special to give her the love she deserves. Are you ready to make room for Chloe in your life?
Visit the Prince William County Animal Shelter today to meet Chloe and other wonderful animals available for adoption. For more information or to contact the shelter, visit www.pwcva.gov/department/animal-services. Don’t wait—come see Chloe today, and you might just find your new best friend!
Travel to French soil and join us for a night filled with two of the most beloved French traditions—no plane ticket required! ?
On January 25th, we invite you to experience the magic of Galette des Rois, a 700-year-old tradition celebrated across France throughout the entire month of January (and even beyond!). This sweet, almond-filled puff pastry topped with a golden crown isn’t just a treat—it’s a celebration! The lucky person who finds the fève (a porcelain charm hidden in one of the slices) becomes the King or Queen for the Day, and don’t worry—there will be plenty of royalty to go around! ??
But that’s not all! In France, Les Voeux (New Year’s wishes) continue throughout January, often accompanied by Champagne and good cheer. We’re bringing that festive spirit to you, with a lively evening packed with French food, wine, and music.
What’s in store:
Experience the passion and drama of Puccini’s “The Girl from the Golden West”.
Featuring special guest musicians from The Chesapeake Youth Orchestra,
this performance brings Puccini’s masterpiece to life with an extraordinary cast.
