The Science of Neuroplasticity

According to Andrew Huberman, my go-to source for all things brain-related, “Neuroplasticity is the brain's ability to change and adapt in response to stimuli over time . . . Contrary to what was previously believed, brain development does not only occur in childhood—in fact, the adult brain is still capable of self-directed synaptic growth.” Although we continue to learn how it works, the fact that our brains can change is such a relief!

Understanding Old Snow Grooves

We've all heard the phrase "old snow grooves," which describes how our brains get stuck in habitual patterns. But how exactly does this happen, and can we really rewire our brains? I have an ongoing situation that vividly illustrates this concept in action.

The Faucet as Teacher

I attend an exercise class at a small studio three or four times a week and have been doing so for almost ten years. The single-stall bathroom has a sink with a hot faucet on the left and a cold faucet on the right. The hot water faucet hasn't worked for at least two years. Despite knowing this, I almost always turn on the hot faucet first. My brain follows the same old pattern even when I challenge myself to avoid it.

Every time I turn on that non-working faucet, I do the very human thing: I scold myself. “You idiot, why do you keep doing that? You know that faucet doesn’t work.” To make matters worse, a tiny bit of water comes out of the hot faucet before it stops, giving me false hope for a brief moment. Sometimes, I laugh at myself, imagining the faucet mocking me, “Got you!” Then I turn on the cold faucet and wash my hands.

This seemingly inconsequential habit reveals a magnificent and life-changing truth. Often, we know what to do in theory, but in the moment, we revert to our habitual patterns without thinking. This is what “old snow grooves” are. My brain is so used to turning on a hot faucet first that it continues down the same path despite my intellectual awareness.

Why Some Habits Are Easier to Change

You can substitute any habit for my faucet habit. If you’ve ever lost your electricity for a short time, you know the force of habit of flipping on the light switch even though you know there is no power.

When the seat belt law was enacted in North Carolina in 1985, my soon-to-be husband and I decided that day to always to buckle up to avoid fines, be safer, and follow the law. It quickly became a habit, and for nearly 40 years, I haven’t started a car without buckling up.

So, why could I learn to buckle the seat belt but not to leave the hot water faucet alone? The answer lies in intention, accountability, importance, awareness, and consequences. These factors are powerful motivators for changing a habit and rewiring our brains. The seatbelt habit came with clear intrinsic and extrinsic motivation. The consequences of a fine or injury in an accident were significant motivators. Remembering the faucet is neither important nor consequential.

Practical Strategies for Enhancing Neuroplasticity

Learn Something New: Challenge yourself to learn something new, like a language, a musical instrument, or a new craft. Doing something novel helps you create new neural pathways.
Physical Exercise: Regular physical activity has been shown to promote brain health and enhance neuroplasticity. I’m big into Jazzercising, but anything that gets your heart rate up and increases blood flow will help with those neurons.
Mindfulness and Meditation: Practices like mindfulness and meditation can help increase brain plasticity by promoting relaxation and reducing stress.
Sleep: Our brain needs quality sleep to form new pathways. (make this a priority).

Being Gentle with Ourselves

Rewiring our brains, especially regarding deeply ingrained habits, is challenging. The faucet incident reminds me to be gentler when trying to change a behavior. It’s a powerful example of brain plasticity at work.

Conclusion: Embracing Neuroplasticity

Understanding neuroplasticity and how our brains can change is crucial, especially as we age. If you're struggling to break old habits or create new ones, consider the importance of intention, accountability, awareness, and the consequences of your actions. And remember, there is always time to rewire your brain.

If you're looking for guidance on harnessing the power of neuroplasticity to transform your life, I'm here to help. Let's work together to create lasting, positive change. Contact me to start your journey towards a more fulfilling and empowered life.

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Rewiring Our Brains Slowly but Surely