In a world where we often focus on physical fitness, it’s easy to overlook the importance of keeping our minds sharp and adaptable. However, a growing body of research suggests that our brains can be trained much like our muscles, and the key lies in challenging ourselves with new experiences.
As a journalist for The Update Desk, I recently sat down with Dr. Joanna Fong-Isariyawongse, a neurologist at the University of Pittsburgh, to learn more about the science behind brain training. Her insights reveal that the brain is a remarkably dynamic organ, capable of forming new connections and reorganising existing networks throughout our lives.
“Just like muscles, the brain responds to training,” explains Dr. Fong-Isariyawongse. “Repetition keeps the brain running, but novelty pushes it to adapt, forcing it to pay attention, learn and problem-solve in new ways.”
The research shows that activities like learning a new language, mastering a musical instrument, or even taking a different route on a familiar walk can all stimulate the brain’s neuroplasticity – its ability to change and adapt over time. This process is not limited to childhood, as once believed, but can continue well into adulthood.
However, the brain, like our muscles, also needs time to rest and recover. Chronic stress, long work hours, and constant decision-making can lead to “neural fatigue,” causing focus to fade, mistakes to increase, and cravings for quick rewards to rise.
“Just like you wouldn’t do squats for six hours straight, you can’t expect your brain to perform at its best without breaks,” Dr. Fong-Isariyawongse says. “Sleep is particularly crucial, as it allows the brain to clear away waste, restore essential resources, and consolidate memories.”
Alongside adequate sleep, regular exercise has also been shown to boost brain health by increasing the production of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a protein that supports the growth of new neural connections.
The key takeaway is that we don’t need expensive brain training programs or radical lifestyle changes to keep our minds sharp. Small, consistent habits – trying new activities, varying our routines, and prioritising rest and recovery – can go a long way in maintaining cognitive resilience throughout our lives.
“The brain stays adaptable,” Dr. Fong-Isariyawongse concludes. “If you want a sharper, more creative, more resilient brain, you can start now, with choices that tell your brain that growth is still the plan.”
