Neuroplasticity
Also known as: Brain Plasticity, Neural Plasticity
The brain's ability to reorganize itself by forming new neural connections throughout life.
FULL EXPLANATION
Neuroplasticity is the brain's ability to change and adapt its structure and function in response to experience, learning, and environmental changes. It occurs at multiple levels, from individual neurons to large-scale brain networks.
Contrary to old beliefs that the brain was fixed after childhood, we now know significant plasticity continues throughout life. This underlies learning, memory, recovery from injury, and adaptation to new challenges.
WHY IT MATTERS
Neuroplasticity means the brain can continue to develop and recover throughout life. Understanding and leveraging plasticity is key to cognitive enhancement and rehabilitation.
HOW TO IMPROVE
Enhance neuroplasticity through novel learning experiences, physical exercise, adequate sleep, social engagement, and challenging mental activities.
NORMAL RANGES
Neuroplasticity is not measured directly. It can be inferred from learning ability, recovery from injury, and brain imaging changes over time.
RELATED TERMS
Deep Sleep
The most restorative sleep stage characterized by slow brain waves, essential for physical recovery, immune function, and growth hormone release.
Working Memory
The cognitive system that temporarily holds and manipulates information for complex tasks like reasoning and learning.
Cognitive Reserve
The brain's resilience to damage or decline, built through education, mental stimulation, and social engagement.
BDNF
A protein that supports brain cell growth, survival, and plasticity, crucial for learning, memory, and mental health.
More in Mental Performance
View all →Focus
Well-EstablishedThe cognitive ability to concentrate attention on a task while ignoring distractions.
Working Memory
Well-EstablishedThe cognitive system that temporarily holds and manipulates information for complex tasks like reasoning and learning.
Cognitive Reserve
Well-EstablishedThe brain's resilience to damage or decline, built through education, mental stimulation, and social engagement.