The Neuroplasticity Factor: Why Brain Training Helps When Other Methods Fail
Brain training takes advantage of the brain’s amazing ability to change itself. This ability is known as “neuroplasticity” and is how learning takes place. For example, neuroplasticity is what allows you to become better at a sport with practice or to develop a new habit over time.
The brain continues to adapt and adjust
Research has shown that throughout life the brain continues to adapt and adjust as it confronts new experiences, acquires fresh knowledge and is exposed to varying sensory input. Different neurons fire, the number of synapses increases and the brain gets “re-mapped.” This capacity for change continues well into old age.
New patterns and structures lead to contentment and a peaceful mind
Over time, new patterns and structures are created, becoming more conducive to contentment and a peaceful mind. With practice and training, these patterns can produce a new way of life. Another benefit is that many people are able, over time, to reduce or eliminate medication.
Help for many conditions
This is encouraging news for those suffering from disorders caused by poorly functioning brain patterns such as anxiety, depression, insomnia, chronic pain and ADHD.
The tool is neurofeedback
At Center for Brain we employ neurofeedback to train the brain into healthier, more functional patterns. It helps the brain adjust its timing and strengthen connectivity between the different parts of the brain.
For someone with hyperactivity or anxiety, neurofeedback teaches the brain to calm itself. For someone with depression, neurofeedback helps wake up the brain and elevate mood. With practice and training, these patterns can produce a new way of life.
Potential to reduce medication and actually change the brain
The conventional approach to managing disorders like anxiety, depression and sleep problems is medication. Drugs can temporarily alleviate symptoms but come with undesirable side effects. Furthermore, they don’t teach the brain new patterns and may fail or eventually stop working. When medication is discontinued, the symptoms are likely to return, because the brain hasn’t learned to operate any differently.
Because neurofeedback teaches the brain to function better, many people are able to reduce medication with appropriate medical supervision.