Written By Redbird Therapy
What Is Neuroplasticity?
Neuroplasticity refers to our brain’s ability to develop and form new connections and pathways between brain cells or neurons responsive to our environment.
Contrary to previous assumptions, we know from neuroscience research that the process of neuroplasticity begins when we are young and continues throughout the course of our lives.
We can directly support healing and change by using our brain’s capacity and our awareness!
How Does Trauma Impact Neuroplasticity?
Our brain and our perspectives can be negatively impacted by challenging life experiences, trauma, substance use, and brain injuries.
Experiences of trauma shape the sensitivity of our nervous system responses as well as which structures in our brain get activated. Research has also shown that trauma impacts the level of inflammation in the body, which can further impact the functioning of some neurotransmitters, thus impacting brain development, mood, and chronic health conditions.
For a more fulsome understanding about what trauma is, you can check out our previous blog on this topic: How Do Trauma Responses Keep Us Stuck and How Do We Shift Out?
How Does Neuroplasticity Help Us?
The good news is that the picture is not entirely grim. Neuroplasticity can support us with positive adaptions over time by creating the development of new pathways in the brain when we are exposed to new information, practices, or environments.
For instance, if you have adapted to certain negative experiences as a young person, neuroplasticity makes it possible for your brain to create new connections and an environment of safety that supports healing and growth.
What Are Some Ways To Improve Neuroplasticity?
There are a number of ways we can improve neuroplasticity. Therapy can be a supportive part of this process, especially following experiences of trauma. The supportive therapeutic relationship, coupled with specific trauma-informed therapy techniques (depending on the therapist’s treatment orientation), can offer new coping tools, challenge self-limiting thoughts and beliefs, as well as promote emotional regulation.
Other practices outside of therapy, such as mindfulness practices, meditation, breathwork, exercise, sensory engagement, as well as learning a new skill are some of the other ways we can improve our neuroplasticity.
For more information, check out an educational video by Redbird’s clinicians who offer a deep dive into this topic:
