Neuroplasticity and the Empath’s Brain

In this episode, we’re discussing a bit of the brain chemistry that explains neuroplasticity but we also give some tips and techniques on how to rebuild those neural pathway for a higher quality of life. Neuroplasticity is the brain’s ability to change and adapt due to experience. As empaths, many of us have had situations that may have left long term residual impact from trauma, being extremely sensitive, and also with needing to learn how to navigate a world that can feel very harsh at times. The importance of neuroplasticity can’t be overstated: It means that it is possible to change dysfunctional patterns of thinking and behaving and to develop new mindsets, new memories, new skills, and new abilities. Neurogenesis is the creation of new brain cells and certain parts of the brain are capable of generating new cells throughout adult life. Neurogenesis pretty much says that as new cells are created, they build stronger connections and have a higher likelihood of developing new neural pathways compared to older neurons. The ability of the brain to change and grow in response to experience helps people recover and overcome from severe stress and adversity–to be resilient; to bend without breaking. Depression, anxiety, and post traumatic stress disorder are often characteristic of disrupted neuroplasticity. This leads to getting stuck in neural ruts of negative thinking/feeling/behaving or fear-based memories. We hope this information is helpful and you find some time this week to bring in some novelty or new experiences to rebuild some of your own neural pathways!