Build Brain Power by Harnessing the Power of Neuroplasticity
February 21, 2019
Human brains are moldable. They are constantly
breaking and forming new neural connections between brain cells, and can shrink
or expand as you learn new things. Just a few years ago, this was thought to be
impossible.
This isn’t just another cool fact that’s good
to know. Knowing how your brain works can actually help you build brain power
and delay age-related dementia.
How
Neuroplasticity Works
The brain is made of a huge number of neurons that
work together to perform both simple and complex tasks. These neurons are
connected by a unique pattern of pathways.
When your brain needs to perform a task such
as recall the lyrics to your favorite song, the neural connections fire up in a
specific sequence until the task is done.
Neuroplasticity occurs when your brain
modifies existing neural networks and creates new ones. It deletes neural
connections that you haven’t used in a while and strengthens the necessary
ones. This process happens continuously throughout your life as you learn and
memorize new things.
How to Build Brain Power
Keep learning new things
Nothing keeps your brain cells active like
learning new things. Studies show that enrolling in an art or dance class can
improve your attention, memory and promote neuroplasticity and growth.
Similarly, learning a new language activates
the hippocampus, which is the memory center of the brain,
and actually makes your brain bigger.
Exercise
The benefits of working out go far beyond physical fitness. Regular exercise generates new neural connections in the hippocampus, and improves your thinking and memory.
This is because exercise improves blood,
oxygen and nutrient supply to the brain and stimulates the production of a
hormone that promotes the formation of new neurons and connections. It’s why
doctors prescribe physical exercises to ward off mental decline in patients
over 50.
You don’t have to work out for months before
you begin seeing changes in your memory and your brain’s ability to plan and
organize. If you do at least 150 minutes of moderate physical exercise a week,
you should start seeing results within 4 weeks.
Read regularly
You probably already know that reading is good for the brain, but do you realize just how beneficial it is?
Reading regularly keeps the part of your brain that deals with language active, and strengthens neural pathways in this area. This mental stimulation can help reduce stress, which is bad for your brain, and also reduces the risks of dementia and Alzheimer’s.
Support
Your Brain with Healthy Food
Your brain needs nutrients to make new brain cells and create new neural pathways. Important nutrients that boost brain function include omega 3 fatty acids, Magnesium and Vitamins D and E.
Eating lots of brain foods such as blueberries, nuts and seeds, whole grains and salmon helps to keep your brain well-nourished and healthy.
Modern science has revealed the marvelous
truth that you don’t have to play the cards that were dealt you. It’s within your
power to have a stronger, healthier and younger brain.