Let’s talk about Neuroplasticity!
Let’s chat about something we all know but sometimes forget to embrace: repetition, repetition, repetition, repetition... Why are we talking about this? One of the hallmarks of working with me is the yoga and meditation I pepper in to your every day. We all know that practice makes progress, and there's a fascinating science behind why this is so very true.
But why is habit formation so hard?
It all boils down to neuroplasticity, the brain's incredible ability to adapt and change.
What Is It?
Neuroplasticity is the brain’s way of reorganizing itself by forming new connections. This isn’t just a fancy term for scientists to toss around—it’s a game-changer for anyone looking to form new habits or break old ones. Think of your brain as a network of roads. Every time you repeat an action or thought, you’re essentially paving a new road or reinforcing an existing one. The more you travel that road, the smoother and more automatic it becomes… The faster that action becomes, or the quicker you go to towards a thought. (Yep… it turns out, you are what you THINK.)
Repetition and Habit Formation
So, how does repetition fit into this? When you repeat an action consistently, your brain starts to recognize it as important. It strengthens the neural pathways associated with that action, making it easier and more natural over time. This is why habits, both good and bad, can become second nature.
Remember learning to ride a bike? The first few attempts were probably wobbly and filled with falls. But with practice, your brain learned to balance, pedal, and steer all at once. Now, it’s something you can do without even thinking about it. That’s neuroplasticity in action!
Now let’s go a little deeper. What about your identity?
Who you are lies in your mind… and your mind is designed by the neural pathways in your brain. Do you wake up and tell yourself, “I am not enough”? or are you the type of person whose internal monologue is pumping you up, “I am a really good friend.” or “I commit to hard things, and I see them through.”
The Body’s Adaptability
But it’s not just your brain that adapts—your body does too. Muscles get stronger, coordination improves, and physical tasks become easier with repetition. This is why I have my clients practice some of the same movements over and over until they are second nature...
It’s not just about building muscle memory; it’s about creating a seamless connection between the brain and body. That way, in labor, those movements don’t require a decision to be made.
They just happen.
Tips for Building New Habits
Here are some practical tips to harness the power of repetition and neuroplasticity to form new habits:
Start Small: Don’t overwhelm yourself. Begin with small, manageable actions that you can repeat daily. (5 min? cat/cow?)
Be Consistent: Consistency is key. Try to perform the new habit at the same time each day to create a routine.
Be Patient: Change doesn’t happen overnight. It takes time for your brain and body to adapt to new patterns.
Celebrate Progress: Acknowledge your improvements, no matter how small. This reinforces the positive behavior and motivates you to keep going- there is science behind this too!
Visualize Success: Visualization can help strengthen the neural pathways associated with your new habit. Imagine yourself successfully performing the action and enjoying the benefits.
Make a Plan: One study found that you are 2-3 times MORE likely to perform a new habit if you identify when and where you will do it.
YES- You can double or triple your chances of getting this done, just by planning ahead!!!
Overcoming Challenges
Forming new habits isn’t always easy. You might encounter resistance or setbacks, and that’s perfectly normal. The key is to keep going. Remember, every repetition brings you closer to making that new habit a natural part of your life.
So what?
Repetition is a powerful tool for change. By understanding and leveraging neuroplasticity, you can form new habits, break old ones, and adapt both your mind and body to new challenges. It’s all about paving those neural roads and traveling them often.
So, next time you’re trying to build a new habit, embrace the repetition. Know that each time you practice, you’re reshaping your brain and body for the better. Keep at it, and before you know it, that new habit will be as natural as riding a bike.
Happy habit-forming!
