Neuroplasticity

It was once believed that, as humans, by the time we reached 25, we had formed all of our brain cells and all of neural connections. This means that any time we would sustain a head injury or induce any substances, we were slowly killing off brain cells that we could never get back. What a glum outlook: continuous depleting neuronal cells as we age until we undoubtedly lose our memory and pass away..

However, recent neuroscience research has determined this previous research is no longer true. In fact, our brain is “plastic” meaning that it is flexible and continually forming. It is possible to form new neuronal connections in the brain, specifically the hippocampus, which is in charge of episodic memories. With new experiences and the learning of new information, the brain can continue to develop.

Hence, to protect yourself from the phenomenon of “use it or lose it”, embrace the opportunity to learn something new. This could mean traveling to a new place, reading Dr. Michelle Cleere’s new book about optimizing performance, or trying a new body weight workout at the gym instead of sticking to limiting weight machines. Regardless of your approach, challenge yourself to new experiences. Not only will you grow as a person, but you will have the opportunity to grow new neuronal connections as well.

Photo credit: en.wikipedia.org