The mind of our making

 Thought is powerful. By nurturing a positive thought, we can face life bravely.

I remember as a child, I used humorous poems and rhymes to distract me in moments I might’ve felt some fear. As I grew up, I learnt to face difficult  situations by reading powerful books, meditating, doing lots of outdoor activities etc. I also learnt that every trial is an awakening call. I realized that by changing perceptions in a productive way, one can face life better.

For many years, scientists believed that the brain was a static structure and after a certain age, it cannot be changed.

But now medical research from Harvard medical school, University of Illinois and others have shown that the structural brain and its ability to form new neural pathways are two very different things. While it’s true that there are structural changes in the brain just as there are in the body, it doesn’t mean that it can’t ’grow’ new capabilities. This ability of the brain to change, offers  hope to anybody at any stage of life. It is proved that brain is not fixed, it is dynamic and adaptable. It is known today as ‘Neuroplasticity’.  It means the brain can change,  grow capabilities, reorganize its structure and connection throughout life, by learning and gaining new experiences. 

Plasticity means to be flexible, to rewire. And neuroplasticity refers to that quality.  It is indeed a great discovery of modern science. 

The ancient system of Yoga, which is a combination of Asana (physical postures) , Pranayam (life force control) and Meditation ( concentration of mind) help to rewire our brain in a unique and powerful way. Physical postures enhances blood flow and rebalances the nervous system, and also improves balance in the body. Pranayama regulates life's energy and makes our energy body whole. Meditation creates mental clarity and enriches our perceptive capacity. 

Neuroplasticity may be activated by learning a new language, a new skill like playing a musical instrument, or navigating through new adventures. Also brain games like chess , scrabble etc can improve Neuro plasticity. 

Many ancient practices in Yogic science promote the birth of new neurons in our brain, which are vital for our memories and perception.  

As we all tread on the path to being older , we must try to activate neuroplasticity in our daily lives to retain and develop the one unique capacity that can be shaped outside of the limits of the body. The mind. Unless  we learn to be masters of our own mind, we will always be the victim of circumstance. And aging.

Though Paramhansa Yogananda lived much before this modern term Neuro plasticity entered the main stream, he always believed that only with focused thought and will power, rewiring of the brain power is possible. As he said, "if you want to be sad, no one in the world can make you happy. But if you make up your mind to be happy, then no one on earth can take that happiness from you"

 .As being the flame of infinity, we all have that power. The Neuro plasticity of our mind is in our hands, only we need determination and will power to activate it.