How Does Neuroplasticity Work: Exercises & Examples

Have you ever asked, “How does neuroplasticity work?” Well, it’s like having the tools to retrain your brain, renew your thinking, and break free from the negative self-image that’s been holding you back from thriving in life, in business, or in both! Read on to learn how neuroplasticity works 😊

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The first time I started looking into how neuroplasticity works, I was totally blown away…

My sister-in-law shared a video on how we can actually change the way the human brain can actually change and form new connections, and it was like a lightbulb went off for me.

I was always fascinated by the ability of the brain to grow and adapt, but this wasn’t just science — it was HOPE.

Hope that I could retrain my mind to let go of the early childhood lies, the pressure of diet culture, and the deep insecurities that shaped me for years of my life.

Can you relate?

Well, my beautiful friend, if you’re feeling stuck in a similar place, there’s hope for you, too…

This could be the key to understanding how you can change the way you see yourself, and start thriving the way God intended.

And it’s called neural plasticity or brain plasticity. If the concept of neuroplasticity seems too complex to understand — I’ve got you!

I’m going to walk you through how neuroplasticity works — in the simplest terms.

So you can understand how your brain (through creating new neural pathways and processing new information) can break free from those negative thought patterns that have kept you stuck.

You’ll discover how this can lead to life-altering shift in how you see yourself and your life!

I’ll also give you examples and show you practical exercises you can start TODAY to begin retraining your brain and transforming your life.

So, how does neuroplasticity work?

Let’s find out!

What is Neuroplasticity?

Neuronal plasticity or neuroplasticity is a process that involves adaptive structural changes and functional changes to the brain. 

In plain English…

Neuroplasticity is simply your brain’s ability to change and adapt.

That means how you think, what you say, and even how you respond to life’s challenges can be transformed!

And that, my friend, is real hope…

Think of it like this: Every time you think, speak, or experience something new, your brain is building and strengthening ‘pathways’ — just like how roads get built in a new neighborhood.

For example…

When you’re stuck in a cycle of negative thoughts about your body or yourself, it’s like your brain automatically follows the same well-worn paths, over and over again.

But here’s the good news…

Those paths aren’t permanent!

You have the power to create new, life-giving pathways that lead to freedom from those old, destructive thoughts.

And that’s where brain plasticity comes in.

Think of your brain like a muscle…

When you lift weights, your muscles grow stronger and change, right?

Well, the same goes for your brain.

Each time you intentionally shift your thinking — by speaking God’s truth over yourself and remembering your identity in Christ — you’re “strength training” for your mind. You’re building new “roads” that lead to freedom from those old, negative patterns.

But wait, it gets even better!

It applies to everything — like learning a new skill and healing from trauma to completely transforming how you see yourself in the mirror.

Your brain can literally rewire itself to reflect how God sees you — strong, loved, and capable. 

It’s as if your brain is constantly learning and adapting to new experiences and new ways of seeing the world and yourself.

What are the 3 Types of Neuroplasticity?

1️⃣ Synaptic Plasticity

This is how your brain makes stronger connections between brain cells when you learn something new. Think of it like tiny bridges that help information travel more easily the more you practice.

2️⃣ Structural Plasticity
This is when your brain physically changes shape. Imagine it as your brain building new roads or even new houses to help you learn and remember better.

3️⃣ Functional Plasticity (Brain Function)
When one part of your brain isn’t working well, other parts step in to help out — kind of like teammates covering for each other so the brain can still function.

(Stay with me because next, you’ll see … How neuroplasticity is activated!)

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💖 Explore Related Posts 💖

1. Why is Neuroplasticity Important?
2. Finding Your Identity in Christ Can Be Life-Transforming!
3. 15 Body Image Journal Prompts for Christian Women

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How Does Neuroplasticity Work?

Neuroplasticity is activated when you intentionally shift your thinking, speaking, or actions.

For example…

When you think a positive thought, like “I am fearfully and wonderfully made,” your brain strengthens that new connection — almost like adding bricks to a road. 

The more you practice thinking, saying, and doing new things that reflect God’s truth, the stronger that new path becomes. Eventually, your brain will start to take this new, healthier road automatically.

Neuroplasticity is God’s incredible design for your brain to heal, grow, and thrive. 

And as you create these new pathways, you’re not just changing your brain — you’re changing your life. You’re moving from insecurity and self-doubt to confidence and freedom, one thought at a time!

And here’s the best part…

It’s never too late to start!

Your brain can change at any age, in any situation, because God made it that way. Neuroplasticity isn’t just science — it’s a beautiful reflection of how God renews our minds daily. 

(Isn’t the human body incredible?)

💖 So, are you ready to start building new paths and see yourself the way God does? It starts with just one thought, one truth, and one step in the right direction.

Neuroplasticity Examples: Body Image Related

As a makeup artist (among other things 😉), I naturally see things through a beauty lens. Neuroplasticity and makeup may seem like two different worlds, but they actually share a lot in common.

Think of your mind like a makeup palette, and neuroplasticity as the brush. Just like you choose the right colors to highlight your best features, you can choose positive thoughts to replace negative ones. This allows you to see yourself with more self-acceptance and less self-doubt.

Let’s break it down…

1. Applying Positive Thoughts

Positive thoughts are like the foundation of any great makeup look — they set the tone. When you focus on your worth in God’s eyes, it’s like applying vibrant, uplifting colors that brighten everything. These positive thoughts lay the foundation for confidence and emotional health.

2. Blending with Compassion

Compassion is your blending brush. Just like you blend makeup for a smooth finish, blend compassion into your thoughts — softening those harsh, self-critical lines. Practicing compassion nurtures emotional health and encourages positive changes in how you see yourself.

3. Highlighting Your Strengths

Positive thoughts act like a highlighter that brings out your best features. When you focus on your strengths and achievements, it helps your brain form neural networks that reinforce self-love. These moments of self-affirmation light up your brain, adding a glow to how you feel about yourself.

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💖 Super Helpful Resources 💖

30-Day Digital Self-Love Journal

Check out all of the FREE Resources here!

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4. Wiping Away Negativity

Negative thoughts are like stubborn makeup stains. Neuroplasticity is your cleansing tool — gently wiping away those old patterns of insecurity. Each item you replace a negative thought with a positive one, you’re literally rewiring your brain and creating new pathways that leave self-doubt as a thing of the past.

5. Showcasing Self-Acceptance

Once you’ve practiced these steps — like completing a makeup look — your brain naturally begins to embrace self-acceptance.

(I get chills just thinking of this happening to you!)

It’s not about striving for perfection, but about recognizing and appreciating your inherent worth as a daughter of God.

Over time, your brain structure adapts to reinforce these new, TRUTH-based beliefs.

Whether you’re navigating new challenges or simply facing every day moments — your brain is constantly working behind the scenes to transform how you see yourself.

How It All Comes Together

Neuroplasticity plays a crucial role in how you think, feel, and respond. 

It’s the simple rule behind how our minds adapt to new environments, physical changes, and even new knowledge. 

• Every positive thought…
• Every act of compassion…
• And every moment of self-acceptance…

Helps build neural networks that support emotional health. It’s one of the best ways to break free from old thought patterns and embrace who you truly are in Christ.

So, whether you’re facing new challenges or learning to see yourself with fresh eyes…

Neuroplasticity equips you to shape a more loving and compassionate view of yourself. Just like creating a makeup masterpiece, it happens one stroke, one thought, and one day at a time 💖

Next Steps…

Now that you know how neuroplasticity works, it’s time to put it into practice.

Try one of these simple neuroplasticity exercises today…

1. Use your left hand (or non-dominant hand) for a basic task like brushing your teeth or writing a note. This small change activates new parts of your brain and helps with memory formation, reminding your mind that it can adapt to new situations.

2. Engage in some physical activity. Even a short walk or stretch counts as physical exercise and plays an important role in renewing both your body and mind.

3. When a negative thought about your body or worth comes up, pause and say out loud a truth from Scripture, like ‘I am God’s masterpiece, created in Christ Jesus to do good works.’ (Ephesians 2:10) This helps with memory formation and starts creating new neural pathways, teaching your brain to respond differently.

💖 What is Neuroplasticity? How to Change Your Brain

💖 Start today, and remember, God designed your brain to grow and adapt — even through the simplest actions. 

💖 Your brain is ready for positive changes — one truth at a time.

I truly hope this post answers the question, “How does neuroplasticity work?” Because by understanding how it helps reshape your thoughts and heal from trauma, you can break free from self-doubt, rebuild peace, and thrive confidently! In Christ, you’ve got this!

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🤗 Sharing is caring! If this post was helpful — would you consider sharing it with a friend who might also be struggling with body image? Simply text her the link. Sharing the hope is what it’s all about!

And I’d love to hear from you — let me know in the comments if this spoke to you or what you’d like to see next! 😊

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Posted By: Wanda · In: Mindset