The Importance of Learning New Things
Children and young adults going through education are constantly engaging their brains and learning new things. But as we progress into adulthood, life can sometimes settle into predictable patterns. However, not only can new learning boost your confidence, motivation, and sense of well-being, but it also has a direct impact on your gray and white matter. Let’s find out more.
What happens to the brain when you practice a new skill?
We know that physical exercise does wonders for the health of our bodies and brains. Well, similarly, giving our minds a regular workout can also prove hugely beneficial. Our brains require more oxygen the more that they’re used, which in turn increases blood flow, and therefore promotes its optimal functioning and health.
When we learn and perfect a task, whether it be a regular daily task or a part of a long-term job, our brains use less and less energy in order to carry it out. When the brain isn’t being challenged for long periods of time, it can lead to an accelerated decline in cognition and memory.
However, when we’re actively learning something new, the brain continually forms new connections, neurons, and stimulates existing neural pathways. This is what’s referred to as neuroplasticity. Put simply, the more you focus on new learning, the more “plastic” your brain will be.
What does this mean in practical terms?
What does all of this translate to? Well, a modest but continual focus on learning new things has been shown to have a whole host of attractive benefits, including:
Slowing the onset and progression of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease
Improving mood and relieving stress by boosting dopamine levels
Easing the symptoms of a variety of mental health conditions
Having a positive impact on overall cognitive performance.
How to incorporate new learning as an adult and into old age
You might be wondering where to find the time to fit in learning something new, or simply looking for ideas for brain-boosting activities to try.
The good news? To reap the brain benefits of new learning, you can practice something novel for as little as fifteen minutes a day.
If there’s a hobby, sport, or instrument you’ve always wanted to learn, that’s a great starting point. Sports and skills that require focus, effort, and coordination will have a myriad of beneficial knock-on effects.
If you’ve wondered about learning a new language, you’ll be pleased to know that the combination of practice and novelty translates into denser grey matter, increased white matter integrity, and improved concentration and memory skills.
Even something as simple as taking a new route or method of transport to work can not only boost mood, but also activate the hippocampus by offering the opportunity for your brain to find new solutions.
So, what have you learned today?
If you're someone who values lifelong learning and wants to optimize your brain health, consider enrolling in brain health coaching. Research shows that continuing to learn and challenge your brain can help reduce the risk of cognitive decline and improve brain function. A brain health coach can help you develop a personalized learning plan and provide guidance on the best types of activities to support your brain health. Don't let your brain's potential go untapped – take action today and invest in your brain health by enrolling in brain health coaching. Your brain and future self will thank you for it!