Neuroplasticity: You can change your brain

Have you heard of neuroplasticity? It's the ability of the brain to change. I first learned of neuroplasticity in one of my psychology classes during my undergrad degree and heard of studies where someone who is blind for example, might develop better hearing because the part of the brain formerly used for sight was taken over by cells responsible for hearing. It’s fascinating stuff and can actually be developed consciously for positive or negative change.

For example, when we experience trauma, our brain changes in the amygdala where our fight, flight, and other primal defenses are. This has the effect of heightened hypervigilance, increased depressive symptoms, etc. When events come up that emotionally remind us of that traumatic event we are ‘triggered’ and those same defenses kick in even though it may not be at all appropriate.

Through cultivating more positive experiences we create new pathways in the brain. This is referred to as samskaras in yoga and is possible through breathwork, mindful movements, humming, singing, and more. Social engagement is another way to find this type of path. When trauma has many layers it takes more than likely, but it is a way to activate the vagus nerve to increase levels of safety.

In the video below, you'll learn a couple of breaths that you can use to calm the nervous system using the vagus nerve so that you can feel less anxiety, sadness, and other emotions trapped in the body.