Neuroplasticity

Figure 1. Neuroplasticity Vs Age.

Neuroplasticity is the ability of the brain to change its default activity by modifying its connectivity. This is an important feature as it enables the brain to rewrite itself when new environments or technologies arise. When young, humans are extremely neuroplastic (see Figure 1) which then declines through age. Recent studies have shown neuroplasticity can be temporarily improved inducing types of pivotal mental states.

The brain is neurochemical in nature, meaning it is part electric and part chemical. When these systems combine to provide brain function they work like hiking trails; the pathways that get a lot of traffic get smoother and wider, with brush stomped down and pushed back. The neural pathways that sit unused grow over, becoming less likely to be used. Your brain uses the more accessible pathways as it takes lower energy to do so.

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