Have you ever heard someone say, "You can't teach an old dog new tricks?" It's one of those sayings that rolls off the tongue easily—but when it comes to our brains, it's simply not true. Thanks to a remarkable phenomenon called neuroplasticity, science has proven that our brains can grow, adapt, and change throughout our lives.
Whether you're recovering from burnout, looking to improve your focus, or simply aiming to keep your mind sharp as you age, understanding and supporting your brain’s health is one of the most empowering things you can do.
Let’s explore what neuroplasticity really is, how you can harness it, and the vital role that therapy can play in supporting your mental well-being.
What Is Neuroplasticity?
Neuroplasticity is your brain’s ability to change—structurally and functionally—throughout your life. It’s how you learn new skills, form memories, adapt to change, and even recover from injury or trauma. Instead of being a static organ, your brain is like a garden: it grows, prunes, and reshapes itself based on how you use it.
There are two main types of neuroplasticity:
- Functional plasticity: When one part of your brain takes over functions from a damaged area.
- Structural plasticity: When the brain physically changes its structure in response to learning or experience.
In simpler terms, every time you learn something new or challenge your thinking, you are literally reshaping your brain.
Practices That Boost Brain Health and Neuroplasticity
So how can you support your brain in staying flexible, resilient, and healthy? The good news is, there are many simple, accessible ways to do just that.
1. Move Your Body
Physical activity is one of the most powerful tools for brain health. Exercise increases blood flow to the brain and stimulates the release of growth factors like BDNF (Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor), which supports the growth of new neurons and connections.
- Try walking, yoga, swimming, or dancing.
- Even 30 minutes of moderate activity a day can make a huge difference.
2. Feed Your Brain
What you eat profoundly affects how your brain functions. A brain-healthy diet emphasizes:
- Omega-3s (found in salmon, walnuts, flaxseeds)
- Antioxidants (from berries, leafy greens, and dark chocolate)
- Whole grains and healthy fats
- Hydration (yes, water matters!)
The Mediterranean diet and MIND diet are two well-researched approaches that support both brain and heart health.
3. Challenge Your Mind
Your brain thrives on novelty and complexity. Keeping it active and engaged helps maintain existing neural pathways and encourages the formation of new ones.
- Learn a new language or musical instrument
- Play strategy games or puzzles
- Read books on new topics
- Take a class or attend a workshop
Think of these mental challenges as “brain workouts.” Just like lifting weights helps build muscle, learning strengthens your brain.
4. Sleep Deeply
Sleep is when your brain consolidates memories, processes emotions, and clears out waste products. Chronic sleep deprivation can impair attention, memory, and even long-term brain health.
- Aim for 7–9 hours of quality sleep per night
- Maintain a regular sleep schedule
- Create a calming bedtime routine
If you're struggling with sleep, talk to a healthcare provider—poor sleep is a common but fixable issue.
5. Manage Stress
While a little stress can sharpen your focus, chronic stress actually shrinks parts of the brain (the hippocampus) involved in memory and emotional regulation.
Mindfulness practices like meditation, deep breathing, journaling, and nature walks are all effective in calming the nervous system and supporting resilience.
Even taking just five minutes a day to pause and breathe can help reset your brain.
Therapy: A Powerful Tool for Brain and Emotional Health
While self-care and lifestyle practices are powerful, therapy can offer something uniquely transformative—especially when it comes to brain health and emotional resilience.
Why Is Therapy So Effective?
Therapy isn’t just about talking—it’s about rewiring. When you work with a therapist, you're engaging in a process that actively reshapes your brain. Through regular sessions, you:
- Learn healthier thought patterns (cognitive restructuring)
- Develop emotional regulation skills
- Create new neural pathways through reflection and insight
- Practice self-compassion and reframe past experiences
Certain types of therapy, like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), and Mindfulness-Based Therapy, have been shown to physically change the brain in ways that support healing and resilience.
Therapy as a Safe Space for Growth
Neuroplasticity thrives in safe, supportive environments. In therapy, the therapeutic relationship itself can be healing—especially if someone is working through trauma or anxiety. Feeling heard, validated, and understood activates parts of the brain associated with trust, empathy, and safety. This can be deeply reparative.
And you don’t need to be in crisis to benefit from therapy. Many people use it as a space to deepen self-awareness, grow confidence, and improve relationships—all of which support brain health and personal growth.
Embracing a Growth Mindset
At the heart of all of this is a simple but powerful truth: You are not stuck. Whether you’re 25 or 75, your brain is capable of change. That means it’s never too late to build healthier habits, process old wounds, or learn something new.
When we understand that our thoughts, emotions, and behaviors are shaped by patterns—and that those patterns can be changed—we unlock a sense of agency. Therapy, self-care, and a brain-supportive lifestyle give us the tools to make that change.
Final Thoughts: Be Kind to Your Brain
Your brain is doing an extraordinary job—navigating your life, helping you adapt, and working behind the scenes every second of the day. The more we care for it with compassion and curiosity, the better it serves us.
So move your body, eat real food, get some sleep, talk to someone, and don’t be afraid to seek help. Supporting your brain isn’t just about avoiding illness—it’s about building a life that feels vibrant, connected, and whole.
Remember: Every day is a new opportunity to nourish your mind and shape your future.
Want to Start Somewhere Simple?
Try this: tonight, write down three things that went well today. It could be as small as a smile from a stranger or your first sip of coffee. This small practice helps your brain focus on the positive—and yes, it actually strengthens neural pathways that support happiness and gratitude.
Your brain will thank you.
Connect with one of our Calgary therapists by clicking here to book a session or a free 15-minute consultation
Disclaimer:
The content contained in this post is for informational/educational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, consultation, diagnosis, or treatment. Please seek the advice of your qualified mental healthcare provider in your area with any personal questions you may have.
Aspen Psychology Group is accepting clients at this time, Alberta residents can book an appointment here. Also, PsychologyToday.com is a great resource for finding a mental health professional in your area