The Power of Neuroplasticity
by Shad HelmstetterThis book reveals the power of neuroplasticity and your ability to change the programming of your mind. With the latest research about neuroplasticity, you will learn how to alter your thinking, overcome negative attitudes, achieve goals, improve brain function to stay young, and become more mindful of your surroundings—basically, everything you need to improve your life!
You Have the Power Over Your Mind
“Everything we think, feel, or do, imprints or rewires our brain. Our rewired brain, in turn, affects everything we think, feel, or do… which again, in turn, imprints or rewires our brain.”
It was believed that our brains stopped growing or changing at a certain point, but recent scientific research has shown that this is not true. Through the study of neuroplasticity, neuroscientists have discovered that the brain is constantly changing and adapting in response to new information and experiences. This means that the brain is constantly rewiring itself in response to the messages it receives.
Our thoughts and perceptions play a critical role in this process, as they shape and influence how our brain is wired. This creates a feedback loop where our perceptions shape our brain, and our brain, in turn, shapes our perceptions.
Therefore, it is important to understand what kind of messages you send to your brain to understand whether your thinking is positive or negative. This will give you a clue about how you are wiring your brain and the results you are creating in your life.
Actions to take
Your External Environment Greatly Influences Your Mental Programming
“Because your brain will unconsciously duplicate the neural activity of the person you're with, anyone you spend your time with can imprint your brain with their programs. And, unless you're aware of this, neither of you will know it is happening.”
The external environment, including the people and media around you, can greatly influence the rewiring/ programming of your mind. These influences constantly send messages that your brain records, both consciously and unconsciously. And repeated exposure can lead to these messages becoming wired into your brain. Even though you can’t control these external influences, you can control the programs that get wired into your brain.
Actions to take
Rewiring Your Brain
“When you practice the seven rules of neuroplastic programming, you’ll begin to discover what you and your brain are actually able to accomplish when you work together. You’ll be able to notice a difference in who is really in control of your brain almost immediately.”
You can deliberately rewire your brain with the right programs. There are seven “rules” to rewire the brain effectively: mindfulness, choices, intentions, focus, repetition, emotion, and belief. These elements work together, and when you actively practice them, you will start having more control over how your mind and brain interact to create new programs.
Actions to take
Building a Positive Self-Talk Attitude
“Your self-talk is the most important player in directing your brain's neuroplasticity to create the pathways.”
A positive self-talk is a powerful tool that can be used to redirect your thoughts. It is not about being unrealistic but about facing your challenges with a different attitude.
When you face problems or difficulties and dwell on negativity, you will continue to create these situations around you. But when you learn how to use it effectively, you are rewiring your brain for success. Eventually, you will start focusing on using self-talk to change your attitude, achieve your goals, and create the life you want.
Actions to take
Brain Exercises to Keep You Young
“It is never too early or too late to begin exercising your brain, enhancing neuroplasticity, and being more youthful in your mind, brain, and spirit.”
It was believed that the older you get, the more your brain starts diminishing. But due to the power of neuroplasticity, we now know that no matter how old you are, you can learn new things and keep your brain sharp.
There are many activities that you can start right away to keep your brain young. Some examples of new activities that will help you rewire your brain include practicing meditation, learning a new language, learning to play a musical instrument, taking a college course, practicing Tai Chi, learning to draw or paint, writing a book, etc. As you start engaging in a new activity, you’ll find that it brings a sense of novelty and a fresh outlook on life.