What is Neuroplasticity?
Neuroplasticity is the ability of the brain to reorganize itself and heal itself by growing damaged cell inside neuron. This reorganization of neuron occurs through axonal sprouting in which undamaged axon creates new neuron to connect other neuron or heal damaged neuron. Neuroplasicity is also known as brain malleablity or brain plasiticity.
Role of Different parts of neuron on Neuroplasticity :
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Dendrite – This plays a important role in neuroplasticity. When learn new things new branches of of dendrite created .
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Axon – When Axon goes near axon of another cell then metabolism changes happen in both of the cell. Axon terminal produces new branches which helps in forming new pathways and bridges . So it helps in transmission of information faster, which helps in neuroplasticity.
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Schwann cell – In terms of Neuroplasticity schwann cell have the capacity to stimulate regeneration of central and pheripheral nervous system. This is extremely important when you are suffered an injury or trying to recover from injury.
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Apart from this different parts of brain like Nucleus, Myelin Sheath, Astrocytes, Oligodendrocytes, Satellite cells, Ependymal cells, Microglia has essential roles in neuroplasticity.
How to influence the process of Neuroplasticity?
There are a few strategies by which we can influence the process of Neuroplasticity which forces our brain to create new synapses.
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Doing that task that requires different motor skills – Learning and practicing different motor skill stimulate different parts of the brain which helps to creates new neuronal branches and it facilitates neuroplasticity. The more you perform the action the stronger their influence is on our brain. These motor skills are like learning swimming, exercising, playing sports etc.
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Learning new language – Another way to influence the neuroplasticity is by learning new language. Previous research proves that the brain mechanisms that are involved in learning new languages are those that significantly aid in the diagnosis and treatment of people who suffer from impaired speech after stroke, accident and other similar conditions. As you learn new language this creates and strengthen neural network in the brain, in turn improve your learning process.
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Practice Flow – Flow refers to a state of consciousness where you become fully immersed with the task you’re doing. Practicing flow also helps to influence neuroplasticity in a big way. In order to enter this states you must have involve in an activity that has clear goals, task you are about to perform must also provide you with immediate and clear feedback.
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Practicing Mindfulness – Mindfulness is the process of being consciously aware of your own environment and activity in a purposeful way, at all times. It follows a form of active thinking called ”metacognition” – which in the brain is a function of the prefrontal cortex – and helps you regulate and manage your own thought. Practicing mindfulness helps in the process of neuroplasticity.
What is Neurogenesis?It is the ability of the brain to produce new cell even during adult hood. The new cells that are produced by neurogenesis divided into two category. First there is stem cells which has infinite ability to replicate. Then there are progenitor cells which are more limited in terms of their ability to divide. If you want neurogenesis to occur in your brain throughout your life, you must keep on performing or engaging in activities that stimulates your brain. Whether you’re learning a new language, learning to play an instrument or performing any other activity that stimulate your mind, this encourages your brain to produce new cells.But Neuroplasticity and Neurogenesis are not same things. Neuroplasticity occurs when new connection are formed and Neurogenesis occurs when new neurons are created.