Science is revealing more and more that, at all ages, not just when we are young, our brains can change. This is good news. But the key to this is that it happens in “response to experience.”
This means it is within our control to change our brain—both the function and the actual structure—and, therefore, to intentionally change ourselves for the better based on the experiences we plan and carry out. Unfortunately, this also means that our brain is changing in response to experiences we don’t plan—for the better or for the worse!
The point? We can choose our activities with the intention of promoting positive neuroplasticity.
Now we have an additional reason to do the things we already know are good for us, and additional motivation: improved brain wellness which equals improved personal and psychological wellbeing.
The other day, I walked by a bulletin board outside an elementary classroom where I work. The display had pictures of various students participating in different physical exercises. The title of the bulletin board was “Exercise is Heart Smart!”
I had an impulse to take out my pen and write “and Brain Smart too!” at the end.
Aerobic exercise is one activity that studies show can enhance neuroplasticity. John Ratey, author of Spark: The Revolutionary New Science of Exercise and the Brain, writes about how exercise releases a chemical (BDNF) he likens to “Miracle-Gro for the brain” since it “nourishes neurons like fertilizer.”
Studies show that sleep, social connectedness and diet also enhance neuroplasticity. In addition to these life style elements, new learning, practice, and the close paying of attention are also very important to the promotion of neuroplasticity.
This is encouragement to begin the process of promoting one’s own psychological wellness by making a decision to participate in activities that will lead to enhanced neuroplasticity, which can better facilitate personal change. Even just focusing our attention on the act of intentionally doing something to promote our psychological wellness can result in changes in our brain's function and structure!
Check back for more discussion on this topic and others about ways to promote your own psychological wellbeing. Consider making an appointment for a PWC (Psychological Wellness Check-Up) to focus your attention more closely on your current state of psychological wellbeing. Perhaps check the Talks and Classes link and attend an upcoming event.