What Is Neuroplasticity Of The Brain?
Neuroplasticity is the brain’s ability to reorganize itself by forming new neural connections throughout life. This ability to adapt and change is what allows us to learn and remember new information. Neuroplasticity occurs both in response to our environment and as a result of our own thoughts and actions.
Scientists used to believe that the brain was a fixed entity, hardwired to work in a certain way. However, we now know that the brain is constantly changing in response to our experiences. Every time we learn something new, our brain creates new neural connections. And when we repeat an action, those neural connections become stronger.
This process of brain plasticity underlies all of our learning, from picking up a new skill to forming long-term memories. And it doesn’t just happen during childhood neuroplasticity can occur throughout our lives. In fact, it’s one of the reasons why it’s never too late to learn something new.
There are two types of neuroplasticity: structural plasticity and functional plasticity. Structural plasticity refers to changes in the brain’s physical structure, such as the formation of new neural connections. Functional plasticity refers to changes in the way the brain works, such as increased activity in a particular region of the brain.
Both types of neuroplasticity are important for learning. For example, when we first learn a new skill, such as riding a bike, our brains must create new neural connections to store this information. This is an example of structural plasticity. But even after we have mastered a skill, our brains need to continue to adapt and change in order to keep improving. This is an example of functional plasticity.