We have not observed yet in the universe
something as complex as the human brain. The brain is composed of 100 billions
neurons, each neuron having from a thousand to ten thousands connections
allowing it to interact in an incredibly rich network. The more scientists
learn about the nervous system, the more they become amazed by it. Recently
magnetic imagery has permitted breakthroughs in understanding the brain. Here
are 3 of them.
1. Neuroplasticity: the brain never stops
learning and evolving
Up to 1990, the medical community thought
that neurons stopped growing after childhood. Nowadays, we know that neurons
keep on growing at adult age and even in old age. They grow in a zone called
“Subependymal” then migrate to the cerebral tissue. As importantly, these new
neurons grow dendrites to be able to make connections with other neurons
(synapses).
What make dendrites grow?
Learning,
thinking, taking action, stimulating the body, loving.
What make dendrites shrink and loose their
ability to connect?
Aging, stress, pollution, some diseases, and mainly
inaction. Neurons die much faster if they are not used.
2. Our brains are fully functional
You may have heard before that we use only
a little percentage of our brain capacity. From a neurological point of view
this is a misunderstanding. According to Professor Bernard Mazoyer, our brain
functions at 100% of its capacity. But only 1% of it is cognitive function
meaning we are aware of it. Thinking, speaking, making decisions, taking action
use only 1% of the brain’s energy and resources. 99% of the brain’s function is non-conscious.
It deals with regulating body functions, assessing the environment, and
re-wiring the neural network.
Our unconscious brain is so efficient that
it allows us to interpret the meaning a smile within 2 hundredth of a second.
When a close person smiles, you will almost immediately know if her smile is
rigid, tired, happy, pleased, condescending, diplomatic or dreamy.
3. Brains interact with each other
Neuropsychologists have observed that when
two lovers kissed, the two brains will synchronize. The synchronization of the
pre-frontal cortex has strong positive effects: Diminution of blood cortisol
levels (cortisol is secreted with stress), and increased antibodies indicating
a stronger immune system. Researchers have also observed similar effects when
lovers looked in each others eyes. That was also true, but to a lesser extent,
with family members, friends or even therapists. At the opposite, an argument
between two people has negative effects on the cardiovascular health and it decreases
immunity. If the arguments are too regular, the health damages become
cumulative.
6 advise to keep your brain in its best
shape.
Neurologist Muchael Mezernich, who spent
his life helping people with neurological diseases, gives these following
advise:
> Never stop learning, throughout your life, new things and
activities.
- > Persevere when you learn something new as progress may be
slow in the beginning.
- > Avoid noise pollution.
- > Be aware that medications can help, but only using your
brain through exercises and learning can offer protection.
- > Know that hypertension, diabetes, and tabacco are enemies to
neuroplasticity.
- > Love foods that rich in anti-oxidants (fruits, vegetables,
fish), physical activity, calmness, kindness, laughter and empathy. they all
favors neuroplasticity.
Source: Patrice Van Eersel, Nouvelles Cles,
n. 76, April-May 2012.
0 comments:
Post a Comment