Build the Brain you Want

After watching this, your Brain will not be the same

Lara Boyd

Lara Boyd discusses growing research regarding neuroplasticity and the implication of it for stimulating learning.

How we Learn?

Why some learn easily as compared to others

What we know about brain is changing at a rapid rate

Misconceptions

Brain cannot change after puberty

You use only part of brain – in fact most of the brain is always active even when you are relaxing and doing nothing

Neuroplasticity is a significant discovery of recent times

Changes in the brain are happening all the time

Brain can change in three ways to stimulate learning

1.  Chemical: Chemical signals called neuron signify brain activity. Concentration of these chemicals can increase to stimulate learning. It improves short term memory

2.  Altering the Physical Structure: Changing physical structure is a slow process. It improves long term memory.

3.  Altering its Functions: As you use more a particular region of the brain, it becomes excitable or activated making it easier to use again

 What is that limits or facilitates neuroplasticity

Your Behavior is the primary driver of neuroplasticity. Therefore all the limitations arise from it. You can remove these by changing your behavior.

Neuroplasticity needs constant practice of new behavior to make the change permanent or long lasting.

Neuroplasticity can be positive or negative. Addiction to drugs or alcohol can bring about harmful changes in the brain. It can be corrected by persistent change in the behavior.

There is no recipe for quick learning. There are individual differences. Some quickly learn Mathematics; others may be proficient in languages. Some pick up sports easily while others may master various musical instruments quickly.

The common belief that 10,000 hours are needed to master a skill is not quite true. Some may need considerably less while others may need much more.

Studying the individual variations has led to growth of personalized medicines and personalized therapies.

Study how and what you learn best. Repeat those behaviors.

Break those habits that hamper learning in your case.

Go out, build the brain you want.