[Crowbob]

Brain plasticity research is an interesting development. Each of our abilities to learn is unique. Currently, there are three ways the brain changes with learning. One is chemical (i.e., the neurotransmitters between brain cells). Another is structural; brain networks evolve and become more efficient. The third is functional. That is, areas of the brain can actually change what they control.

Short-term memories are facilitated by the chemical transmitters. However, in order for short-term memories to become long-term, the neural networks have to change also. The chemical interactions have to be sustained long enough to sort of etch into the structure of the brain; to actually 'fix' efficient and predictable pathways in neural tissue and relationships. And finally, the areas of the brain can be altered to function in different ways. It had long been discovered that areas of the brain can assume new influences over areas of functioning previously controlled by other areas. This is the slowest process of the three and requires the most effort.

Now, what we have learned recently is that each of these processes are uniquely represented in each of us and that these processes can be learned. The trick is to find out in each of us which of the three processes we are best at and build from there. This has profound implications for the rehabilitation of stroke victims, for example. Customizing therepies to individuals may be the way to go.

I found these concepts particularly fascinating. I had recently resumed a former passion of drumming after a twenty-year hiatus. My progress was astounding-at first. In a matter of weeks I was at a proficiency level I had been at previously that took years to develope initially. I was even actually able to do things I had not been able to do before.

Then I suddenly remembered why I lost that original passion. The learning curve the second time around was extremely steep and very satisfying. However, I found myself at a proficiency level wherein any improvement required more and more commitment as the curve flattened out.

I concluded that drumming had permanently changed my brain. Much like pics of Jo had.