I hope wherever you are, you know Recovery is with you right where you are.
According to the National Institutes of Health, neuroplasticity is the brain’s amazing ability to change, adapt, and reorganize itself. Our brains are not permanently wired at birth. Instead, they continually create new pathways and strengthen or remove old ones based on our experiences and learning.
The Cleveland Clinic offers several examples of neuroplasticity in everyday life. Learning a new language, finding your way around a new neighborhood, or developing a new habit all involve creating new pathways in the brain. Even driving a car becomes easier over time because the brain learns to perform many tasks automatically. Neuroplasticity also helps people recover from brain injuries or strokes, allowing healthy brain areas to take over some lost functions.
Why am I writing about neuroplasticity today? There are two reasons.
First, I have been struggling with long-term constipation, which has greatly affected my quality of life. When I go two or more days without a bowel movement, my anxiety often increases. My psychiatrist and pharmacist have encouraged me to reduce some medications that can cause constipation. My concern is that lowering these medications could affect my mood. I am working to change how I think about this. Instead of focusing on what might go wrong, I remind myself that I only need the amount of medication that is truly necessary. I am hopeful these changes will help relieve my constipation.
Second, several months ago, I began following a carnivore diet, eating only animal-based foods. Fruits and vegetables often cause bloating and hard stools, making bowel movements difficult.
My nutritionist has encouraged me to add a small amount of fiber back into my diet by eating a handful of cashews each afternoon between 3 and 4 p.m. I feel uncertain about this because of how my body reacted to fiber in the past. Still, I have agreed to try. I hope that through repetition, I can create a new habit that supports both my digestive health and emotional well-being.
Neuroplasticity gives us hope in Recovery. Whether we are 14 or 80 years old, we can continue to learn, grow, and change. While change may become more challenging as we age, it is still possible. Recovery reminds us that growth can happen at any stage of life.
What area of your Recovery feels stuck right now? Is there a new habit, thought, or action you would like to practice and strengthen through the power of neuroplasticity?
Remember, Recovery is happening right now, in this moment.
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