How do we think, learn and remember?

Neural pathways are the connections between neurons in the brain that allow us to think, learn, and remember. They are formed and maintained through a process called synaptic plasticity, which is the ability of neurons to change their connections in response to experience.

Synaptic plasticity is the basis for learning and memory. It is the process by which neurons form new connections and strengthen existing ones in response to experience. This process is driven by the release of neurotransmitters, which are chemicals that carry signals between neurons. When a neuron is stimulated, it releases neurotransmitters that bind to receptors on other neurons, causing them to become more or less active. This process is known as synaptic transmission.

The strength of a connection between two neurons is determined by the number of neurotransmitters released and the number of receptors that bind to them. When a neuron is repeatedly stimulated, the number of neurotransmitters released and the number of receptors that bind to them increases, resulting in a stronger connection between the two neurons. This is known as long-term potentiation (LTP).

On the other hand, when a neuron is not stimulated, the number of neurotransmitters released and the number of receptors that bind to them decreases, resulting in a weaker connection between the two neurons. This is known as long-term depression (LTD).

The formation and maintenance of neural pathways is an ongoing process. As we learn new things, new pathways are formed and existing pathways are strengthened or weakened. This process is essential for learning and memory, and it is the basis for our ability to think and reason.

Find out how my integrative approach can help you. I use a mix of psychotherapy, counselling and hypnotherapy at my practice. Schedule a call today.