How the Brain Adapts
At my peer advisory group today, we watched a Ted Talk about what occurred in the psyche of a person having a stroke. It occurred to me how quickly we adjust and adapt to adversity when we are put into a situation requiring that of us. For instance, when the part of our brain controlling our motor skills is interrupted, we figure out an alternate way to accomplish our immediate and urgent action. When we get an injury, we figure out how to get by in that predicament. In both of those examples, we are accepting a compromised set of skills and creating new habit patterns. It happens rather effortlessly and easily.
Brain Adaptation and Neuroplasticity
The brain has a remarkable ability to adapt to adversity and change. This process is known as neuroplasticity, which refers to the brain’s ability to change and reorganize its structure, and function in response to an experience.
When the brain is faced with adversity, it can respond in a number of ways. For example, it may reorganize itself to find new ways to accomplish tasks that were previously difficult. It may also change the way it processes information and may even create new neural pathways to help it better cope with the adversity it is facing.
Factors that Influence Neuroplasticity and Adaptation
There are multiple factors that can influence how the brain adapts to adversity. These include genetics, the environment, and the individual’s experiences and behaviors. For example, individuals who are exposed to adversity at an early age may have brains that are more resistant to stress and more adaptable to change, while those who have not had similar experiences may be more vulnerable to the effects of adversity.
Overall, the brain’s ability to adapt to adversity is an important part of its capacity to adapt to new situations and challenges. It allows the brain to learn and grow and helps individuals to cope better with difficult circumstances.
Neuroplasticity to Spur Change and Self-Improvement
Imagine how grand it would be if we actually programmed our minds to achieve that which we want. The first steps are to conceive and believe that we can achieve.
If I told you I could assist you in getting into the groove of making incremental progress forward toward your goals until it becomes second nature to you to reach your highest potential and greatest expectations, would you be interested?
Always reminding you to “Get Well and Stay Well” – Dr. Diana Joy Ostroff
