There is a relatively new and quite strong movement in the world of neuroscience that is quite exciting. Neuroplasticity is the capacity of the human brain to expand and grow the connections in the brain. It assumes that the brain is able to heal itself all the way to the end of life. This is not what was taught even 20 years ago when I was in medical school. Even more exciting is that this process does not require a new medicine or medical intervention. It is completely in the hands of the individual. In fact, it is the daily lifestyle of an individual which supports this capacity for growth and expansion.
The science of this phenomenon is rapidly coming to light. There are many mechanisms for this process -- new synaptic connections, stem cells evolving into new neurons, thickening of myelin which increases the speed of transmission of nerve signals, epigenetic phenomenon (genes being turned on or off). Miraculously, the size and function of various structures in the brain can be visualized with modern imaging techniques (SPECT scans) to show the changes that evolve with enhancing experiences.
I have been reading and learning about this new neuroscience from Dan Siegel MD from UCLA who is one of the pioneers in this area. I listened to a series of DVD's called the Neurobiology of We which really opened my eyes to this exciting new world of possibility and promise. He explores the mind (which he defines as an embodied process that regulates the flow of energy and information) as well as the brain (the wiring and physiology of the nervous system both in the skull and in the body) and adds a third "crucial" factor to the triangle -- relationships. This is what got my attention. He values connection and communication as much as any science or structural factors. In addition, the term MIndsight is his term for mindfulness or the ability of the mind to see and influence , monitor and modify itself and the human in general. Thus, meditation is a key skill in developing and allowing the brain to grow and change its capacities and focus. Very empowering stuff.
He gives a very simple and learnable analogy of the structure of the brain (the hand) and then proceeds to unveil how an individual can work with his or her brain and mind to get healthier and happier. This is not new age fluff; it is science combined with practical tools to evolve one's thought and emotional capacities. He further defines mental health as "neural integration" or the capacity to bring together separate structures, functions and physiologies into a "joined", coherent organism with evolved abilities to be in the world in more skillful, productive and easier ways. Most of this "integration" comes out of the uniquely human part of the brain -- the middle prefrontal cortex. This small locus located in the middle of the forehead between the eyes (the sight of the third eye in Eastern views) has the capacity to bring integration of bodily functions and emotions while modulating fear, supporting intuition and morality, enhancing empathy and "attuned " communication, and more. This miraculous, uniquely human evolution can be developed and harnessed. He emphasizes meditation but clearly also promotes exercise, healthy nutrition, social connection, doing "new" things as well as Tai Chi and XiGong, yoga and learning in general as additional paths to enhancing (and actually growing) this area of the brain.
His revelations are incredibly empowering and he offers transformation as within the realm of possibility with persistent work on this front. It is all incredibly uplifting and hopeful for all who wish to stave off the neurodegeneration which too many consider inevitable with aging and also for those who just believe they are not realizing their own potential in this life. The decade of the brain was supposedly the 1990's but I would say it is now and the games have just begun. Combining this new field of neuroplasticity with what Dean Ornish and others have proven about the ability to heal the heart and blood vessels, I would say we have arrived in the era of personal empowerment and a level of health and healing that is stronger than the medical world has ever envisioned or delivered. Wow!
The science of this phenomenon is rapidly coming to light. There are many mechanisms for this process -- new synaptic connections, stem cells evolving into new neurons, thickening of myelin which increases the speed of transmission of nerve signals, epigenetic phenomenon (genes being turned on or off). Miraculously, the size and function of various structures in the brain can be visualized with modern imaging techniques (SPECT scans) to show the changes that evolve with enhancing experiences.
I have been reading and learning about this new neuroscience from Dan Siegel MD from UCLA who is one of the pioneers in this area. I listened to a series of DVD's called the Neurobiology of We which really opened my eyes to this exciting new world of possibility and promise. He explores the mind (which he defines as an embodied process that regulates the flow of energy and information) as well as the brain (the wiring and physiology of the nervous system both in the skull and in the body) and adds a third "crucial" factor to the triangle -- relationships. This is what got my attention. He values connection and communication as much as any science or structural factors. In addition, the term MIndsight is his term for mindfulness or the ability of the mind to see and influence , monitor and modify itself and the human in general. Thus, meditation is a key skill in developing and allowing the brain to grow and change its capacities and focus. Very empowering stuff.
He gives a very simple and learnable analogy of the structure of the brain (the hand) and then proceeds to unveil how an individual can work with his or her brain and mind to get healthier and happier. This is not new age fluff; it is science combined with practical tools to evolve one's thought and emotional capacities. He further defines mental health as "neural integration" or the capacity to bring together separate structures, functions and physiologies into a "joined", coherent organism with evolved abilities to be in the world in more skillful, productive and easier ways. Most of this "integration" comes out of the uniquely human part of the brain -- the middle prefrontal cortex. This small locus located in the middle of the forehead between the eyes (the sight of the third eye in Eastern views) has the capacity to bring integration of bodily functions and emotions while modulating fear, supporting intuition and morality, enhancing empathy and "attuned " communication, and more. This miraculous, uniquely human evolution can be developed and harnessed. He emphasizes meditation but clearly also promotes exercise, healthy nutrition, social connection, doing "new" things as well as Tai Chi and XiGong, yoga and learning in general as additional paths to enhancing (and actually growing) this area of the brain.
His revelations are incredibly empowering and he offers transformation as within the realm of possibility with persistent work on this front. It is all incredibly uplifting and hopeful for all who wish to stave off the neurodegeneration which too many consider inevitable with aging and also for those who just believe they are not realizing their own potential in this life. The decade of the brain was supposedly the 1990's but I would say it is now and the games have just begun. Combining this new field of neuroplasticity with what Dean Ornish and others have proven about the ability to heal the heart and blood vessels, I would say we have arrived in the era of personal empowerment and a level of health and healing that is stronger than the medical world has ever envisioned or delivered. Wow!
Comments
GREAT post Mark.
I believe in what you are saying.
Thank you for the uplifting article.
.