Unyte-iLs’ Approach to Neuroplasticity

What is neuroplasticity?

Neuroplasticity is the ability of the brain to adapt and change. “Neuro” is for the nerve cells, or neurons, and “plastic” refers to the modifiable nature of our brain and nervous system. Neuroplasticity is the reason teachers teach and therapists treat. Because they see that with repeated exposure, practice, and attention, their students and clients learn and change; and so does their brain.

The adage, “You can’t teach an old dog new tricks,” doesn’t hold true with neuroplasticity. The brain is plastic at all ages, so we can continue to learn and create changes in our brains and nervous systems throughout our lifespan.

How do Unyte-iLs programs effect neuroplasticity?

Our programs provide stimulation from multisensory inputs and movement in order to activate neural pathways used in processing of sensory information. Neuronal connections in these pathways are strengthened and new connections are established through repeated sessions. As with most things, the more effort and energy you exert, the better the results.

Brain Change Throughout the Lifespan

Despite the fact that scientists have only embraced the concept of neuroplasticity in the last fifty years, the brain has always changed throughout the lifespan.

Obviously, an infant’s brain is vastly different from an adult’s. But we are not restricted to working with our existing wiring.

• Children with disorders and learning differences are not confined to the mental and physical abilities they were born with.
• People with brain damage due to accidents or strokes can recover since the brain can reorganize and rewire around damaged areas.
• We can change our reflexive thinking.
• Even brain changes that occur due to aging don’t have to be a one-way downhill slide.