Brain Health

During my time as an LPC intern, I learned a lot of new information on the body in relation to our emotions, the brain, how to be an effective therapist, and different therapeutic tools to use with clients.

One of the most fascinating things I took from all of the information was on the amazingness of what is called neuroplasticity, which is the capacity for creating new neural connections and growing new neurons in response to experiences that reshape our brain. What this means is that neuroplasticity is the power of the brain to change, to grow new connections that reestablish old mental functions, and to heal.

Our brain is directly shaped by our relationships and our interactions with the world. This is why our life experiences can either be pleasingly memorable or painfully impactful. Neuroplasticity allows for the neurons in our brain to fire together and rewire so that we can become unstuck from our painful past. Who doesn't want that?

Please note that whenever you engage in any of these 4 activities, you will automatically be improving the health of your brain:

1. Focused Attention- when you are using careful focus of attention.
2. Aerobic exercise- the act of repetition and movement.
3. Novelty- trying something new or unfamiliar.
4. Emotional arousal- when you experience good feelings or an emotional connection.

When I discovered that neuroplasticity could occur throughout the life span, I felt hopeful for humanity and our healing. It was encouraging to know that no matter how painful or traumatic an experience may have been for us, we have the ability to recover and learn new ways of perceiving, feeling, thinking, responding, and behaving.

This discovery is one of the reasons I feel so passionate about practicing mindfulness and sharing its benefits with others. If we break down the 4 activities above into more simpler terms, they would go something like this:

1. When you give attention to things, try to pause and really engage with your eyes, ears, and your heart. Remember that your breath is always available to help you focus when you need to.
2. Move as much as possible. Shake off that nervous energy, those repressed emotions, and connect with your body, otherwise known as your temple.
3. Try one new thing each day. This can be as simple as trying a new food, going home on a different route, or using a shampoo you have never used before. Anytime, you are open to doing something you have never done before or making any kind of change (even if subtle)...this is novelty.
4. Show love to people around you, express how you feel, give long and meaningful hugs to those you care about, make an effort to be more affectionate with your body, your thoughts, and your words.

Too often we underestimate the power of a touch, a smile, a kind word, a listening ear, an honest compliment, or the smallest act of caring, all of which have the potential to turn a life around.

~ Leo Buscaglia – 1924-1998, Author and Speaker