Can You Rewire Your Brain? 6 Ways To Do It

The brain is the most complex organ in the human body. Even after all the scientific advancements, neuroscientists haven't discovered the exact percentage of the brain that we use. Some people believe that we may never be able to fully fathom the brain's capacity, but evidence suggests neuroplasticity is the key.

Neuroplasticity is described as the brain's ability to restructure or rewire itself when adapting to change. It can continue to develop throughout life in response to stimulation, environmental changes, and individual experiences.

Here are six scientifically supported methods to stimulate and rewire your brain:

1. Play Video Games

Video games often spark debates about their ill effects on health, especially mental health. However, research has shown that they have significant cognitive benefits. Online gaming can improve motor coordination, spatial navigation, memory, and decision-making. In addition, it can also foster qualities like leadership and teamwork.

Different genres of games offer unique benefits. For example, 3D adventure games enhance memory and problem-solving, puzzle games boost brain connectivity, and rhythm-based games improve visuospatial skills. Notably, these benefits begin to emerge after about 16 hours of gameplay, spread across regular sessions.

By teaching you to recover from failure or explore creative solutions, video games may also enhance real-world skills such as adaptability and critical thinking.

2. Learn a New Language

Mastering a new language strengthens both grey and white matter in the brain. Research has shown that when you learn a new language, grey matter—responsible for language, memory, and motor skills—volume increases, while white matter enhances connectivity between brain regions.

These changes contribute to improved problem-solving, better multitasking, and higher reading comprehension. Additionally, bilingualism can reduce cognitive decline and dementia risks as you age. To master a new language, you can explore in-person or online classes.

3. Make Music

Listening to and playing music stimulates neuroplasticity by engaging multiple brain pathways. Studies show that music can improve coordination, memory, and mood while slowing cognitive decline. Learning an instrument—even as an adult—can bolster brain health. Affordable options like the ukulele or keyboard, paired with free online tutorials, make it easier to start.

4. Travel

Exploring new places boosts cognitive flexibility, creativity, and communication skills. Experiencing different cultures broadens your perspective. It also gives you time to introspect and in the process, provide new personal and professional goals.

Even local adventures, like walking through unfamiliar neighbourhoods or trying virtual travel experiences, can stimulate your brain. These small shifts in routine encourage adaptability and mental growth.

5. Exercise Regularly

Physical activity not only benefits your body but also strengthens your brain. Motor coordination and neural connectivity are two important parts that are boosted by regular exercise. It also reduces risks of anxiety, depression and neurodegenerative diseases.

Centres For Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise weekly. Activities like group workouts also provide social interactions that contribute to emotional well-being.

6. Create Art

Art-making—whether sketching, painting, or doodling—fosters creativity and enhances cognitive abilities. it taps into the brain's default mode network, which facilitates mental relaxation, creative problem-solving, and habit interruption.