Have you ever heard anyone say “But I am too old to try that”. Perhaps you have found yourself saying it. Some people enter therapy and say “wish I done this years ago”. Neuroplasticity is the brain’s ability to to new learning and experiences. This is a lifelong ability for the brain. It was once thought in psychology that it was fixed after childhood. The brain is now seen as dynamic and can change in later life. Our brain is an organ yet viewing it as a muscle that requires to have a workout and rest can be beneficial in nourishing it.
Becoming aware of the relationship with self, others and the wider world is an important aspect. The more we have a certain thought regardless if it is right or wrong, the more it will become our reality. The thought becomes our reality. If someone consistently thinks “I will be rejected by others”, it becomes part of their belief system and then influencing their behaviours. Of course this thought might have been activated by an event and then compounded with experiences. If you repeat a stressful thought “I will have a bad day” you are practicing a stressful / anxious lifestyle. A good idea would be to journal over a month to start being curious of your belief system of self and others. This can provide more information of what you are practicing that might not be beneficial for your brain health (essentially your relationship with you).
Well-being isn’t simply feeling happy or calm.
Rituals although important have to be balanced with new experiences to support fully living. This can be learning a skill, going to a different café, going on holiday to a different location or changing up your routine at home. It’s important for our brain to meet new people and this supports the brain in learning from others but also social connection. This is turn lessens the sense of isolation and loneliness, being around the “right” trustworthy people can have a profound influence in our brain health. Our support system provides a space for us to be ourselves with encouragement to grow and try new things.
The purpose and meaning of life is different for each person. In clinic life we value the small aspects of life to new experiences on a whim. It’s not about waiting for the holiday, new house or job…. it’s creating a life that’s meaningful each day for you. What small change can you do to support your brain health?