Your brain is plastic- what does that mean?

Your brain is like play-dough! Not that it’s made of it, but it can change and shape itself.

In the past, people believed that after 25, you couldn’t learn much. That idea affected many generations worldwide.

But today, we know better. Your brain keeps learning throughout life. After 25, it might take more time and effort to learn new things, but it’s definitely possible. And there are ways to make your brain work even better, which we’ll talk about soon.

The cool thing is that your brain can rewire itself. It can create new connections between its cells, called neurons.

Imagine your brain as a piece of land that everyone wants. There’s more demand than supply. So, when you do something repeatedly, it takes up space on your brain’s surface. For example, think about practicing a sport. If you practice a lot and then stop for a while, you might notice you’re not as good when you start again. That’s because the connections in your brain for that skill started to disappear during the break.

This rewiring happens all the time. Even if you don’t realize it, just experiencing new things for a day changes your brain.

Now, how can you use this amazing ability of your brain?

1. Keep Learning: Don’t believe that you can’t learn as you get older. Challenge yourself with new things, like learning an instrument or a language.

2. Repeat to Remember: Doing things over and over makes your brain remember them better. This is good for positive habits but watch out for negative ones.

3. Be Curious: Trying new stuff, even small changes, makes your brain create new connections.

4. Move Your Body: Exercise sends more blood to your brain, which helps it change and grow. It’s good for both your body and mind.

5. Sleep and Relax: Sleeping enough and reducing stress help your brain stay strong and adaptable.

6. Try New Senses: Do things that use your senses in different ways. Close your eyes and guess what you’re touching or smelling. It makes your brain work in new ways.

7. Relax Your Mind: Mindfulness and meditation make your brain focus and become more aware.

8. Connect with People: Talking and being with others makes your brain active and flexible. Join clubs, meet friends, or help others.

9. Take on Challenges: Doing things you’re not used to makes your brain change and improve.

10. Mix It Up: Try different activities, like reading and puzzles, to give your brain a workout.

So, remember this: your brain is like a shape-shifter. It changes with your experiences and efforts. When you hesitate to learn something new, think about how you can shape your brain and make it even better.

So, don’t be afraid of change, stay curious, and celebrate the way your brain can transform. Your brain isn’t just an organ; it’s like a masterpiece that can change and grow.

Jay Bialecki – You are awesome!