Silver and Gold Magazine Spring 2018 | Page 19

– By Suzanne Soto-Davies

NEUROPLASTICITY : THE BRAIN ’ S HEALING POWER

In a nutshell , Neuroplasticity is the brain ’ s ability to change and heal itself in response to mental experience . Scientists have been studying this phenomenon for decades , and it ’ s now considered one of modern science ’ s most important developments .
University of Toronto psychiatrist and researcher , Dr . Norman Doidge , is one of the world ’ s leader on the topic . In his books , Dr . Doidge shares the stories of patient recoveries without medication or surgery , through non-invasive movements and thoughts , which allow the body to access the brain .
Some of these movements include the simple act of walking , and how combined with healthier lifestyle ( not smoking nor drinking , fresh fruits and vegetables , etc .) actually reduce the risk of developing dementia by a whopping 60 %! Positive thinking and affirmations have also been used in Neuroplasticity , to heal mental illnesses and even physical ones .
“ This is not a belief-based phenomenon , nor is it due to the placebo effect ,” says Dr . Doidge . “ It ’ s about training up new brain circuitry . You don ’ t have to believe this , you just have to be willing to do it .”
Neuroplasticity has been used to study and successfully heal people affected by physical as well as mental injuries – from stroke , brain trauma , amputation , anxiety , depression , addiction , suicidal tendencies , to find relief and heal patients suffering from Multiple Sclerosis , Autism , Alzheimer ’ s , and several forms of chronic , debilitating pain .
Another recommended Neuroplasticity therapy includes meditation , as it has been shown to improve the body ’ s speed and rate to heal . Neuroplasticity has been shown to actually change the density and thickness of brain grey matter , which in turn assists the areas of the brain that focus on learning and memory , emotional regulation , attention , concentration , cardiorespiratory control , stress control , and more .
Neuroplasticity may not be the end-all to illnesses and disease , but it ’ s an encouraging form of therapy we can all do at no cost , and one which poses no risks or harm whatsoever . Perhaps a good place to start is by turning off electronics and beginning a daily meditation routine , or going for a simple walk . •

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