What is Neuroplasticity?

Neuroplasticity, also known as brain plasticity, refers to the changes in neural pathways and synapses due to changes in behaviour, environment, neural processes and changes resulting from bodily injury. Neuroplasticity explores how and in which ways the brain changes throughout life.

What does that mean? What is neuroplasticity?

In the simplest terms, neuroplasticity is the ability of the brain and central nervous system to change form and function specifically when stimulated by various physical activities.

So what does that mean for you? Hint: It’s very good news!

The brain is not fixed and unchanging as once was thought. Instead, the brain is able to adapt as you learn by creating new neural pathways. If your brain were unable to change to meet your needs, you would be unable to learn new things.

Here’s an example of neuroplasticity in action:

Creating New Neural Pathways

A child wants to learn to ride a bike without training wheels. The child repeatedly falls off and gets back on the bike again. Over time, he begins to find his balance easier. He instinctively knows when to turn the handlebars and when to peddle. In weeks, or perhaps even days, he no longer has to think and concentrate on balancing and riding – and in fact, he may even try harder athletic feats like popping a wheelie!

Reopening Old Neural Pathways

Fast forward 20, 30+ years – the same child is now a grownup who hasn’t ridden a bike in years. He gets on a bike for the first time since he was a child and is surprised at how quickly it all comes back again. He is reopening these long dormant neural pathways and soon he is zooming around feeling like a kid again! And the great news is that you don’t have to be a child to develop new neural pathways. Children, adults, and the elderly all can develop new neural pathways, strengthen or restore older, sluggish pathways, prevent the loss of neural pathways they are now using, and be active in their own brain plasticity and health. Are you learning a new physical skill – like drawing a circle in the air with one hand and a triangle in the air with the opposite foot? Remembering and practising how to throw a ball or play tennis? Going to a new fitness class for the first time? You are forming new pathways in your brain and the more you repeat the new activity, the easier it will become for you. Practice makes perfect for your brain! By practising, new neural connections are created in the brain that helps you to sharpen your new skill.

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