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Published -
- December 15, 2015
- 5:25 pm
Dr. Lara Boyd describes how neuroplasticity gives you the power to shape the brain you want.
Our knowledge of the brain is evolving at a breathtaking pace, and Dr. Lara Boyd is positioned at the cutting edge of these discoveries. In 2006, she was recruited by the University of British Columbia to become the Canada Research Chair in Neurobiology and Motor Learning. Since that time she has established the Brain Behaviour Lab, recruited and trained over 40 graduate students, published more than 80 papers and been awarded over $5 million in funding.
Dr. Boyd’s efforts are leading to the development of novel, and more effective, therapeutics for individuals with brain damage, but they are also shedding light on broader applications. By learning new concepts, taking advantage of opportunities, and participating in new activities, you are physically changing who you are, and opening up a world of endless possibility.
How can individuals harness the power of neuroplasticity to improve their lives and change their brains in profound ways?
We live in a world that is full of constant stimulation. With so many television shows, video games, and social media platforms vying for our attention, it’s no wonder that our brains are always on overload. However, what if there was a way to completely change the way your brain processes information? Recent findings have shown that there may, in fact, be a way to do just that.
The idea that our brains are malleable, and can be trained to perform better has been around for quite some time. However, it wasn’t until recent developments in technology and neuroscience that we began to truly understand just how much we can change our brains. One recent breakthrough that has been making waves in the media is the concept of “neuroplasticity.”
In simple terms, neuroplasticity refers to the ability of the brain to change and adapt over time. It is the brain’s ability to reorganize neural pathways in response to new experiences or changes in our environment. This means that our brains are constantly changing and reshaping based on the things we do, the people we interact with, and the information we take in.
One way to harness the power of neuroplasticity is through the use of brain-training programs. Studies have shown that these programs can actually help to improve our cognitive abilities, such as memory, attention, and reasoning. Some programs even claim to be able to improve emotional regulation and social skills, making them beneficial for people with developmental disorders, such as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).
But brain-training programs are not the only way to change your brain. Another recent development that has been gaining popularity in the media is mindfulness meditation. This ancient practice has been shown to have a positive impact on the structure and function of the brain. By focusing our attention on the present moment, and learning to let go of thoughts and distractions, we can improve our cognitive abilities, reduce stress, and even lower our risk of developing certain mental illnesses.
So, what does all of this mean for you? Well, it means that you have the power to change your brain in profound ways. Whether it’s through brain-training programs, mindfulness meditation, or simply trying new things and experiencing new sensations, your brain has the capacity to adapt and grow. Who knows, after watching this, your brain may never be the same again.
