Secrets of the Silent Tombs
INSIDE THE PYRAMIDS OF GIZA
investigations into their origins, purpose, and, of course, more than a few wild (and sometimes otherworldly) theories. Guidance for Gods Most people today create an estate plan to determine what happens to their most cherished possessions upon their deaths. However, pharaohs — the rulers of ancient Egypt — adhered to the practice of taking everything with them to the afterlife. Pyramids were built as tombs pointing toward the gods and contained items that would help ensure a pharaoh’s safe journey after death as they transcended their earthly existence and became gods. Building Legends The first of three major pyramids built at Giza was also the largest. Construction began around 2550 B.C. at the behest of Pharaoh Khufu. Standing nearly 500 feet above the plateau, the pyramid is constructed of
more than 2 million stone blocks weighing between 2.5 and 15 tons each. The second pyramid was built circa 2520 B.C. for Khufu’s son, Khafre, whose burial site also includes the world-renowned Sphinx. The third and smallest Giza pyramid was constructed circa 2490 B.C. for Khafre’s son, Menkaure. Architecture From Aliens? Scientists and architectural experts have marveled at the pyramids’ precise designs for centuries, leading many to question how builders created these monuments so perfectly so long ago. One theory suggested that aliens — not humans — formulated and implemented the pyramids’ layout and construction. While this conclusion inspires many sci-fi movies, scientists believe the pyramids were created using copper drills, saws, and chisels held in human palms and were most likely not the handiwork of industrious extraterrestrial beings.
Few monuments have perplexed historians — and spurred on conspiracy theorists — more than the Pyramids of Giza. Still standing after more than 4,500 years, these extraordinary tombs offer insight into ancient humanity’s ingenuity and the culture of ancient Egypt. Naturally, their existence has led to extensive
B r a i n B r i l l i a
Secrets to Sustained Sharpness
Who you are often depends on how well you think. As we age, we commonly experience times when our memory and comprehension skills play tricks on us. Sometimes, these events are normal reminders to slow down and not allow stress and hefty schedules to steer our lives; in other instances, they may indicate serious cognitive issues we need to address. Either way, we can follow simple steps to help us minimize those “senior moments.” Here are a few surprising facts to guide your thoughts in a clearer direction. Miami’s Map to Cognitive Clarity We all know maintaining a consistent exercise routine does wonders for our bodies, but getting up and moving also holds the key to our cognitive strength. In addition 2 floridaestateplanning.com
to better prompting the flow of lymph fluids, exercise helps blood reach our brains to ensure proper function. If you’re a senior wondering how much to exercise to promote these desired effects, you can thank the Sunshine State for providing a scientific answer. Seven years ago, a research project at the University of Miami explored the findings of several dozen studies conducted on over 10,000 seniors with an average age of 73. This extensive endeavor revealed that seniors’ ability to fulfill tasks and comprehend information dramatically improved if they exercised for at least 52 hours over six months. The Glorious Benefits of Great Tunes The music you love is more than just the soundtrack of your life — it’s one of the
most significant ways to help keep your physical and mental health strong. Research suggests that listening to music has a considerable positive effect on our immune systems and blood pressure and can aid in reducing common symptoms associated with Alzheimer’s disease and other neurological disorders. Although any music that evokes positive feelings is suitable for this purpose, scientists have found that classical music, in particular, has proven advantages for our brain and heart health.
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