For years, I’ve had an interest in neuroplasticity, particularly as it relates to telomeres in the brain. Many researchers use telomere length to determine cell age, as telomeres naturally shorten with time and give a picture of overall brain health. Telomeres act as protective caps on the end of chromosomes to keep them from deteriorating. […]
Everyday Neuroplasticity – Can Simply Paying Attention Change The Brain?
It’s brain science – not rocket science. Although built from complex mixtures of chemicals and nerve cells, the brain isn’t that difficult to change. Everyday habits, interactions with other people, and even diet can potentially rewire the brain. In fact, just by focusing on the words on this site, you could be changing your brain […]
Recharge Your Brain with a Good Night’s Sleep
A late night at work, too many things on the to-do list, or maybe you were awakened by a nightmare . . . . . . most of us have experienced lack of sleep at some point in our lives (and for some, it can feel more like the norm than the exception). But, missing […]
Working with Memory to Reframe a Traumatic Experience
A single moment can last forever in our memory . . . Now when it’s something special, a time or an event that we hold dear, reliving memories can feel almost as good to us as the actual moment did. But when someone’s memory keeps replaying a traumatic experience, that can cause them to relive […]
Trauma’s Impact on the Brain
When a traumatic event triggers our internal alarm system, the body goes into fight, flight, or freeze . . . . . . but what happens in the brain during trauma? According to Dan Siegel, MD, there are two key chemical reactions to trauma (and one can play a role in actually shrinking part of […]