Neuroplasticity

Discuss how understanding the principles of neuroplasticity benefits people

Understanding the principles of neuroplasticity benefits us as we can use this to improve our regular day to day lives. Everyone experiences stress from time to time but once we understand that our brains are malleable, it gives people hope that they can cope better when difficult things happen. Our brains are constantly reshaped by our daily experiences. Also, knowing that intelligence is malleable, encourages people to learn new things, acquire new skills and strengthen our neural pathways.

Discuss how you might engage with the principles of neuroplasticity for your benefit

I will engage with the principles of neuroplasticity for my benefit by engaging in daily mindfulness activities, by going for daily walks, eating well and ensuring I'm getting enough sleep!

What are some of the ways to increase your neuroplasticity?

Practising daily mindfulness is a good way to increase your neuroplasticity. It can change the way you think, feel and behave. It promotes positive changes in the brain pathway. It can lead to reduced stress. When we are less stressed, we can concentrate better and increase those neural pathways in our brain. You can also increase your neuroplasticity by choosing an activity that is meaningful to you and engaging with the activity on a regular basis. For example, learning a new language. This can also lead to better problem-solving skills and can improve your multi-tasking ability.

Even just spending 10 – 15 minutes a day engaging with a new activity can help. Research shows it takes repetition to keep those pathways strong.

Physical exercise has benefits not only for our physical health but also our mental health. It can make us sleep better but it also, strengthens our brain. Walking or going for a run, can lead to stronger cognitive functioning such as learning and memory retention.

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Growth Mindset

Discuss what it is and why it is relevant

Growth Mindset is having the mindset where you believe new abilities can be achieved through practice. People with this mindset see learning new challenges as exciting and a way to problem solve. They are more likely to succeed and embrace new challenges. They see failing as a part of learning. It is relevant because it fosters a healthier approach to learning.

Having a Fixed Mindset is the opposite whereby people with this mindset believe qualities such as intelligence are fixed. This is not a helpful mindset to have as it cuts you off for opportunities to grow and learn.

In this exploration, did anything surprise you? Change for you?

Yes. I think at times I have a fixed mindset and I become too fixated on finding the answer to the problem, instead of embracing it as a challenge and a part of the learning experience. I am going to try and adopt a more positive way of thinking and see challenges as a chance to learn and succeed.

How will you integrate growth mindset into your learning journey?

I am going to reframe challenges as opportunities and chances to learn. I am going to be kinder to myself and know that it’s okay to make mistakes. This is a part of my learning journey.

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My Learning Plan and Strategy

I will integrate this into my learning journey by incorporating daily mindfulness into my mornings and keeping up with regular walks throughout the week. I’ll also take on a more helpful attitude of trying to solve the problem and see that as a success even if I don’t get the correct answer straight away.