Neuroplasticity + Neural Pathways
Let’s just take a moment and appreciate these amazing images and how our physiology mirrors nature. It never ceases to amaze me. I’m in awe of nature and have such a deep and profound gratitude for it. I wish we all did. I wish we all could stop more, slow down more, connect more- to nature- to ourselves and then with each other. It’d be a totally different experience and I feel this is why this work that I offer here is so important. It helps people do exactly that.
Nature is always guiding us, making things easier for us- for instance the way certain foods are shaped identically to what organs they help. Just think about a walnut and how it’s so good for brain health due to DHA and omega 3- fatty acids (amongst other things) and sweet potatoes shaped like a pancreas- sweet potatoes are an antioxidant rich food, high in carotenoids, boost the function of and are very protective to the pancreas as they release sugar gradually into the body which lessens stress on the digestive system. Lemons are yellow which is the same color as the solar plexus and one of the most beneficial and therapeutic things you could consume for your liver. Your liver is in your solar plexus region.
Look at the pictures above which are from nature and mimic the neural pathways. Did you know that you can create new neural pathways just by being in nature? Being in nature will enliven your senses, your brain will take in an abundance of information and if you’re mindful of the senses and aware of them (allow yourself to feel them)you will quite literally be creating strong, healthy neural pathways that will only add to your optimal wellbeing and nourishment. I love nature- yes, I know I’ve mentioned that multiple times.
Neuroplasticity is when the brain is rewired to function in new ways than it was previously. This is possible because of the ability for neural networks in the brain to change through growth and reorganization. How cool is that?! The dictionary defines neuroplasticity as: “the ability of the brain to form and reorganize synaptic connections, especially in response to learning or experience or following injury.”. However, neuroplasticity also helps the nervous system. The nervous system is able to change its activity in response to intrinsic or extrinsic stimuli. For example when you close your eyes and imagine the most majestic sunset or being in your favorite place in nature or with a loved one, notice what happens you become relaxed, your body experiences it in real time, that’s an intrinsic stimuli. Now if you actually go to your favorite spot and are standing there in it and notice how you feel that’s an extrinsic. Either way, your nervous system was able to change. These stimuli literally reorganize its structure, function and connection. This is also true for injuries and traumas. Anytime you learn something new, this is an example of neuroplasticity as well, the neurons responsible for learning a new language for example will create new synapses. Synapses is transmission of electric nerve impulses between two nerve cells (neurons) or a neuron and gland or muscle cell.
We want to continue to create new synapses, new neural pathways and rewire our brains to function in new ways. It’s a big part of optimal well-being and you know I have to tell you, hypnotherapy also enhances neuroplasticity. There are studies that show how hypnotherapy has helped neuroplasticity after a stroke where people were able to use both arms and hands again. It’s amazing stuff.
Ok, let’s geek out on neural pathways for a bit. So, what are they and what do they do? They are a series of connected neurons (nerve cells) that are responsible for sending signals from one part of the brain to another part. There are three main types of neurons (nerve cells): motor neurons which control muscles; sensory neurons which are stimulated by our sense; and inter-neurons which connect neurons together. Brain pathways are made by connections between the neurons. Connections between the neurons (nerve cells) change with the frequency of a behavior preformed. Many say that neuro pathways are like grooves in the road map of the brain.
Gist of it all, we are amazing and it is wise to practice new things and ways of being to continue creating and developing new neuro pathways. Using your opposite hand to brush your teeth or to try and write, paint, cook- whatever is a great exercise. Exercise using the non dominant hand is very helpful. Learning a new word a day is another great way, keep stress low, getting Vita D, Magnesium and the proper Omegas as well as taking naps, using hypnotherapy techniques and of course being in nature are some of the greatest tools!
Until Next Time.
May you be happy, loved and blessed!
-AM
