The brain is a muscle, and like any muscle, it requires exercise to function optimally. But it’s not like there is a gym for the brain, right? Let’s identify some ways in which neuroplasticity can be improved in the brain. According to Healthline’s article titled “6 Ways to Rewire Your Brain,” neuroplasticity is defined as our brain’s natural ability to adapt to change by rebuilding itself to do so. This is an ongoing process that goes on behind the scenes throughout your lifetime as a response to stimulation, altered environments and personal experiences. Learning how to ride a bike or trying a new food, – all the seemingly insignificant little moments in your life are what shape your brain.

Neuroplasticity is what gives us hope after someone experiences a brain injury or stroke, as there is potential to repair damaged neural pathways or even create new ones by finding methods of bolstering positive neuroplasticity.

Methods of Promoting Neuroplasticity

  • Gaming-  With a degree of moderation and selectiveness, there is ample scientific study that suggests that gaming can improve cognition. Potential benefits include improved motor coordination, memory, reaction times, visual recall, spatial reasoning, problem-solving, creative thinking and ability to recover from failure. There are also some social benefits involved in co-play, such as building on cooperation and teamwork skills.

The game type selected will likely work different mental pathways, so look for games that will test an area that needs improvement. A dance game would be best to improve understanding of movement in space for example, while a puzzle game is better for boosting problem-solving. Adding a few hours of weekly gameplay could show tangible improvements over time.

  • Learning a new language- Research suggests that learning a new language can improve cognitive function on multiple fronts. Learning new languages has been associated with increased gray matter volume in the brain, which controls areas of the brain linked to language, attention, emotions, memory and motor function.

Other research indicates that bilingualism or learning new languages in adulthood can fortify white matter, the parts of the brain that help facilitate brain connectivity and communication with different regions of the brain. It can help to develop vocabulary, reading comprehension and multitasking skills, as well as creative thinking and problem-solving. There are many ways to learn a new language, from in-person lessons, immersion, online options and apps like Duolingo or Babble.

  • Incorporating music into your life- Listening to and playing music can benefit your brain in many ways, from mood boosting to immune support and improved ability to intake knowledge. Studies have indicated that playing music can reduce cognitive decline in older adults and promote neuroplasticity through influencing major structural, functional pathways present in the brain. It can also help with movement, coordination, balance, memory and speech in some cases.

Learning how to play an instrument can be a challenge and expensive if you are not careful but there are ways to mitigate that.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                            Purchasing a used instrument is one way to mitigate cost or try out a cheaper instrument like a ukulele or harmonica. Online free tutorials can be helpful to jumpstart your journey before committing to lessons.

  • Travel- Experiencing new places and new activities does wonders for the brain, broadening your worldview and opening up your perspective. If it isn’t feasible to travel far from home currently, explore new areas close to home. Walk in a new park or walking trail than normal. Go for a hike. Try an activity or restaurant you haven’t been to before, preferably something a little out of your comfort zone. Or to get a taste of something more exotic and learn new things, watch a travel show.
  • Exercise- Getting your body moving is also essential for your brain. Make sure to get in your steps to improve circulation and overall health. The CDC recommends exercising at a moderate intensity for at least 150 minutes every week.
  • Create a work of art- The act of creating something can give a sense of emotional release and a stabilizing effect. Particularly art that requires you to create a scene, like drawing and painting, may be most effective. It could also help create new pathways and strengthen existing connections, leading to better cognitive function. Some people may shy away from creating art because they don’t feel they have an aptitude for it, resulting in a less-than-desirable end product. However, the journey in this case is more important that the destination, though artistic abilities can improve over time.

For more information on the power of your brain and unlocking its full potential, visit the NeuroLIFE Institute website.