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"每一个心智的运作都伴随着大脑的相应变化"

Thomas Reid
Thomas Reid Philosopher
Translations
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Quote meaning
When you think, feel, or remember something, your brain isn't just a passive organ. It physically changes in response to your mental activities. This happens because every thought, emotion, and memory leaves a physical mark on your brain, altering its structure and wiring. Imagine your brain as a giant, living roadmap. Every time you go over a thought or experience an emotion, you're drawing new routes or refining old ones. It's a dynamic process where the mind and the brain are in constant conversation.

This idea has roots in neuroscience and psychological research, but it’s something people have intuitively known for a long time. Back in the day, before we had fancy brain imaging tools, folks understood that experiences could change us—both mentally and physically. They just didn't have the scientific vocabulary to describe it. Today, we've got studies showing how learning new skills, like playing an instrument or speaking a new language, can physically change the brain. It's like seeing the proof of a long-held belief.

Let’s dive into a vivid example. Picture a young woman named Sarah who decided to learn how to play the violin. When she first picked up the instrument, she struggled. Her fingers felt clumsy, and she couldn’t produce a smooth sound. But she persevered. Over weeks and months, she practiced daily. Gradually, her brain started to change. Neurons in her motor cortex formed new connections, and parts of her brain responsible for movement coordination became more active and efficient. What was hard at first became second nature. Her brain had reshaped itself around her new skill.

So, how can you apply this wisdom in your life? Think about it: every time you repeat a positive thought, engage in a new activity, or challenge yourself, you're reshaping your brain. It's encouraging because it means change is always possible. If you want to break a bad habit or cultivate a new one, understand that your brain will physically adapt to your repeated behaviors. Start small—pick one thing you want to change or learn. Commit to it, and remind yourself that each effort is creating tangible shifts in your brain.

Now, imagine a relatable scenario. Think of a guy named Mike who’s always felt negative about himself. He believes he’s not good at anything and that he’s stuck. You might have a Mike in your life, or you might be Mike sometimes. Mike decides he’s had enough and wants to shift his mindset. Every day, he starts writing down three things he’s grateful for. At first, it feels awkward and forced. But he sticks with it. Over time, he notices that it’s easier to think positively. His brain, once wired for negativity, starts creating pathways for gratitude and positivity. Mike’s thoughts reshape his brain, and his life starts to feel different. Just like Sarah with her violin, Mike’s persistence pays off.

So, next time you're struggling to learn something new or change a habit, remember—your brain is on your side. It’s ready to adapt and grow with you. Don’t be afraid to challenge it. Each thought, each action, is a step towards a physically transformed brain. And that’s pretty amazing if you think about it.
Related tags
Brain Brain function Cognition Cognitive science Mental processes Mind Neuroscience Psychology
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