Ep 7. Retrain Your Brain

In Brain Games season 3 episode 7 titled Retrain Your Brain, viewers are taken on a journey to understand the concept of neuroplasticity – the brain's ability to reorganize itself by forming new neural connections – and its applications in our everyday lives.

The episode kicks off with a series of mind-boggling illusions designed to demonstrate just how flexible our brains can be. From perceptual tricks that challenge our visual processing abilities to cognitive games that test our memory and attention, these illusions serve as a reminder that our brains are constantly adapting to new stimuli and experiences.

As host Jason Silva explains, our brains are wired to change in response to the environment around us. Whether it's learning a new language, playing a musical instrument, or navigating a new city, our brains are always seeking out opportunities to grow and evolve.

But what happens when we fall into patterns of thinking or behavior that are less than helpful? Can we use the principle of neuroplasticity to retrain our brains and break free from negative cycles?

To explore this idea, the episode introduces us to a range of individuals who have used various techniques to rewire their brains and overcome obstacles in their lives. From a man who learns to overcome his fear of heights by taking up rock climbing to a woman who uses meditation to reduce her chronic pain, these stories serve as inspiring examples of what can be achieved with the right mindset and approach.

Along the way, viewers are treated to insights from some of the world's leading brain researchers, including Dr. Michael Merzenich, a neuroscientist who has spent decades studying neuroplasticity and its implications for cognitive function. Dr. Merzenich explains how our brains are capable of forming new connections and adapting to new challenges well into adulthood, and offers tips for how we can harness this power to achieve our goals and live happier, more fulfilling lives.

Throughout the episode, there are also plenty of interactive games and brain teasers for viewers to try at home. Whether it's testing your memory with a series of images or challenging yourself to identify subtle changes in a series of visual illusions, these exercises serve as a fun way to engage with the episode's themes and put some of the principles of neuroplasticity into practice.

Overall, Brain Games season 3 episode 7 is a fascinating exploration of one of the most exciting and promising areas of brain research. By showcasing real-life examples of people who have harnessed the power of neuroplasticity to achieve remarkable feats, and offering insights from some of the world's leading experts in the field, the episode leaves viewers feeling inspired and empowered to take control of their own brain health and unleash their full potential.