Neuroplasticity

Our Brain is Adaptable. We Can Make it Stronger.

Once thought to be hard-wired, science has demonstrated our brains can be improved throughout our lifetime. 

Neuroplasticity is one of the most important human discoveries of the last 400 years, giving us the knowledge we need to improve our capability to learn, perform well at work and even enhance our social lives.​

Norman Doidge, MD, Author of The Brain That Changes Itself, explaining neuroplasticity

What is Neuroplasticity?

Neuroscientists used to think that our brain was fixed and unable to be changed from birth. It was believed that our intellectual capacity was fixed – the brain we were born with, was the brain we had for life.  

Our scientific knowledge has significantly advanced over the last several decades – and research on brain development reveals the opposite. 

We now know that the brain is a highly active and a malleable organ across a person’s lifetime. This amazing capacity for change is called neuroplasticity. 

How Does Neuroplasticity Work?

Neuroplastic change occurs at structural and functional levels. These changes work together.

Structural change occurs when neurons in the brain change their connections, altering the brain’s structure. This type of change requires effort and time. 

Functional change occurs when entire brain networks change. These brain networks, as they are used over and over again, become more efficient when activated. 

Activity Dependent Neuroplasticity

​Each of us has the ability to strengthen and enhance our brain.

∞ Activity – mental or physical activity activates
 regions in our brain 

∞ Repetition and practice of the activity strengthens these regions 

∞ New and strengthened neural pathways are created and strengthened over time 

∞​​ ​Learning and processing efficiency is enhanced as a result of these brain changes 

​“If a brain is exercised properly, anyone can grow intelligence, at any  age, and potentially by a lot.” 

Dr. Michael Merzenich
Professor Emeritus, UCSF, Kavli Laureate in Neuroscience

Harnessing Neuroplasticity

Scientists have come to learn how we can create positive brain change – the very conditions that change and ultimately improve our brain’s capacity to learn.

"Neurons that fire together wire together"
​


Donald O' Hebb
Pioneer in Neuropsychology, The Father of Neuropsychology

"If a network supporting a brain function is repeatedly stimulated through practice and training, it will become stronger, contributing to the optimisation of that brain function."

Alvaro Fernandez
Sharp Brains Guide to Brain Fitness

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