How neuroplasticity helps us shape who we become | André Vermeulen | TEDxJohannesburg

Introduction to Neuroplasticity

• Good news: You can rewire your brain for greatness.

• The brain changes internally based on experiences.

• Nelson Mandela quote: "I was in jail for 27 years, but my mind was never in jail."

• Focus on how neuroplasticity enables you to achieve greatness.

Brain Structure and Function

• Key brain area: Cerebellum

  • Located at the bottom of the brain.

  • Responsible for:

    • Balance

    • Coordination of movements

    • Certain speech aspects

  • Home to 50% of brain cells, indicating its importance.

Remarkable Case Study

• A woman in China admitted for vertigo and nausea; CAT scan revealed she was missing her cerebellum.

• Despite this, she lived a normal life, married, had children, showcasing neuroplasticity.

Understanding Neuroplasticity

• Neuroplasticity: The brain's ability to adapt and rewire itself.

• Important for survival and thriving.

• The brain's main function beyond survival is adaptation and forming new neural pathways.

Brain Fitness Activities

• Engage in bilateral movements to improve brain fitness (e.g., clapping hands and touching nose/ear).

• Continuous practice can enhance neuro-agility quickly.

The Changing World

• Adapting to an era of disruptive change demands neuro-agility.

• Flexing mental muscles is essential in overcoming challenges.

Levels of Neuroplasticity

• Brain functionality described in three levels:

  • Electrochemical Functioning:

    • Brain produces 20-25 watts of electricity, transmitting impulses between cells.

    • Chemical interactions (neurotransmitters) facilitate communication between nerve cells.

  • Example: Demonstration of electrical functioning using an energy ball to show connectivity.

  • Energy influences perception and responses to the environment.

Chemical Functioning of the Brain

• Chemicals in the body transmit messages between brain cells:

  • Neurotransmitters: Essential for communication.

  • Emotional experiences impact chemical production (e.g., serotonin from laughter vs inhibiting chemicals from stress).

Structural Changes in the Brain

• As you learn, neural pathways are formed and reinforced.

• Permanent pathways enable behaviors and habits to become automatic.

• New pathways can replace old negative habits through intensity and repetition.

Implications of Neuroplasticity

• We have control over our behavior and can choose to change.

• The Chinese woman's experience shows the brain's capacity to adapt, overcoming adversity without the label of disability.

• Warning against labels that can hinder potential.

Steps to Change Your Brain

1. Assess and identify bad habits you wish to change.

2. Make conscious choices to reinforce new behaviors.

3. Maintain focus on positive solutions more than problems.

4. Engage in repeated practice to solidify new pathways.

5. Visualize and emotionally connect with your desired changes.

Conclusion

• Your thoughts shape your habits and behaviors.

• Changing thoughts leads to emotional transformation and improved performance.

• Take control of your life: Be the architect of your destiny through thought and action.