Tips from a neuroscientist to “adapt” the brain. What is its importance for health?

07:32 PM

The sounds of a large city, such as vehicular traffic, ambulance sirens, or the constant hustle and bustle of the streets, can be annoying the first few times they are heard, but Over time, the brain adapts to it, and in the middle of the day's routine, it will likely never be heard again.

The same thing happens with the ticking of a clock, the smell of food in the kitchen, the phone vibrating in your pocket, or familiar smells in the house, such as the smell of candles or detergent, that… It may become less noticeable over time.

This is caused by the phenomenon of habituation, which occurs when the brain ignores constant stimuli or gradual changes to conserve resources.

This is explained by neuroscientist Tali Sharot at BBC Mundo, who says that “it is better to conserve those resources and prepare for the next situation we have to face,” suggesting that there is an evolutionary adaptive reason for the human body behind this situation.

In his book Look again: the power of noticing what has always been there (Spanish for “Look Again: The Power of Noticing What Has Always Been”), he says habituation not only helps you move forward and overcome difficult situations, but it can also lead you to ignore what is toxic or enjoyable in everyday life.

For this reason, Sharot suggests a “stop and go” approach to situations in order to achieve this Look at them with a fresh look, highlighting both the positive and the negative.

In her research, the specialist found that the happiest moments usually occur at the beginning of experiences, such as vacations.

The same applies to negative situations, such as losing a job or a loved one. “It's good to get used to it over time because that will allow us to keep working. It will be very difficult if you feel angry and sad like I did at first.“, he explains.

In her study, the neuroscientist discovered that the brain can be manipulated to counteract the innate tendency to get used to situations and stop paying attention to them.

“If you take a break from your daily life – it could be, for example, at work, rotating in different departments, or working on different projects – then when you come back, you will be able to see things more clearly, both good and bad. And the good.” , he says.

From this standpoint, his advice is to stay away from the things you are used to in daily life, even the smallest details, in order to break the routine and make positive changes.