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- entangled weekly 6
Dear Entanglers,
welcome to the sixth issue of entangled weekly, an information-packed newsletter that helps readers use science-based tools to improve their life - being it productivity, focus or general well-being.
In this issue, we discover the possibilities neuroplasticity, the brains ability of your brain to rearange yourself to suit your current needs. Discover the effects of mindfulness meditation on changing your brain and look at some interesting internet places.
So come on in, entangle yourself with this load of interesting knowledge picks!
What can i learn today?
Neuroplasticity
The brain can change itself?
Sure!
Neuroplasticity (= ability to reorganize the neurons) is a surprising, yet fundamental ability of everyones brain. It is evolutionary tactic to accomodate brains function based on the enviromental surroundings.
It is within everyone reach to explore and learn about this amazing feat!
Being it very extensive topic, we will focus on basic understanding of the topic and some techniques you can implement to your life. We will explore neuroplasticity further in future issues.
Why should i want this?
If it is not obvious, then let me tell you this:
Your brain organization determines the output from the input you consume.
Everything you do, everything you remember and everything you believe to be true or not - all of it is stored inside your brain, with the help of neurons - specialized cells that create the mass of your brain.
Neurons like to connect with other neurons and tell them what is happening. These connections are altered by your experience - being it intentional learning or big, meaningful event.
What do clever pople say about this?
Andrew Huberman explores this topic deepely, herre is what he has to say:
The potential for neuroplasticity remains throughout life, and even motor injuries can become opportunities for the brain to reorganize and adapt.
Neuroplasticity requires a state of agitation and strain, signaling that something needs to change in the brain. It is important to understand which specific aspect of the nervous system one is aiming to change and the methods for inducing neuroplasticity, as this varies with age and the type of learning involved.
Making errors is crucial for neuroplasticity. The nervous system is signaled through biological mechanisms that something is not going right, subsequently triggering the release of neurochemicals that mark neural circuits for change. This is why persistent practice and learning from mistakes are so integral to the learning process.
Across the lifespan, negative experiences can trigger rapid changes in the nervous system. However, learning new skills as an adult requires a cycle of focus and rest, with intense concentration followed by periods of sleep or deep rest, during which the actual neural rewiring occurs.
How can I enhance my neuroplasticity?
To enhance one's own neuroplasticity, experts suggest various practices and conditions that promote the brain's ability to rewire and form new connections.
Here are some strategies recommended by trusted experts:
Engage in Novel Experiences and Broad Learning:
Expand your knowledge and skills across different domains. This could include learning math, chemistry, physics, literature, music, or learning to play an instrument. Diverse knowledge facilitates the formation of new neural connections.
Adopt a Growth Mindset:
Embrace the idea that your brain's capabilities are not fixed and can continue to grow, and be willing to step out of your comfort zone to stimulate neuroplasticity.
Incorporate Novelty and Nutrition:
Introduce new stimuli and provide your brain with the essential nutrients needed to support neuroplasticity, as both factors are crucial in creating new neural pathways.
Play and Exploration:
Engage in playful activities at any age. Play has been identified as a powerful portal to neuroplasticity, allowing for experimentation and learning in a low-stakes environment. Exploring new environments can also be beneficial.
What action can i take? Are there any supplements i can take?
Implement growth mindset.
That is, IMHO, essential. Because neuroplasticity is not a one-time result of some previously taken special pill or sunbathing under one peculiar wavelength.
It is the result of living with mindset that will lead us into new experiences with opened mind and the results will follow.
This study proves that mindfulness meditation have been shown to induce neuroplastic changes in the brain, evidenced by functional and structural alterations in areas related to attention, memory, interoception, sensory processing, and self- and auto-regulation.
These changes include increased cortical thickness in regions associated with attention and interoception, and enhanced functional connectivity in networks related to self-regulation and emotion control.
If you want to further enhance your neuraplastic potential with supplements,