Neuroplasticity 101
Meisenheimer, K. (2023, April). Rewiring revolution: Neuroplasticity's impact on well-being [Video]. TED Conferences.
What is Neuroplasticity?
Neuroplasticity refers to the brain’s ability to form new pathways and connections between existing or newly created neurons. It is the brain's capacity to rewire itself based on our thoughts, lifestyles, and environments.
Neuroplasticity operates at three levels:
Chemical: It affects the concentration of neurotransmitters, such as serotonin, which is linked to feelings of well-being.
Structural: It involves the creation of new neurons or the formation of new connections between them.
Functional: It enhances the brain's ability to access and activate different areas by building more pathways.
“Neuroplasticity highlights the flexibility and adaptability of our brain throughout our lives,” explains Dr. Tworek. “It’s how we grow as individuals.” (2)
Why is Neuroplasticity Important?
Neuroplasticity is crucial because it underpins key cognitive functions essential for learning and adapting to new situations or environments. It helps us process information, remain flexible, and adapt effectively. Additionally, it plays a critical role in recovery after events such as strokes or brain injuries by enabling the brain to circumvent/ navigate around damaged areas and relearn lost skills.
How to Promote Neuroplasticity?
To enhance neuroplasticity, it is important to challenge yourself with new experiences and break from routine. This could involve changing various aspects of your life or trying new activities, such as learning a new skill or experimenting with a new recipe. Additionally, maintaining good sleep quality and engaging in regular exercise are essential for supporting neuroplasticity.
(1) Prater, K. E., & Saini, A. (2020). Neuroplasticity. In StatPearls. StatPearls Publishing. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK557811/
(2) Cleveland Clinic. (2023, March 29). Neuroplasticity: How your brain can change. Cleveland Clinic. Retrieved from https://health.clevelandclinic.org/neuroplasticity
