Music as a Neuroplasticity hack

Neuroplasticity in its most basic form is the ability of our brain to reorganize itself. Pertinent here is that it plays a vital role in recovering from injuries—it’s something I’ve almost solely focused on in my recovery from a traumatic brain injury. Our brains are continually evolving, influenced by our thoughts, experiences, and even the music we listen to while working out.

I’ve had go-to workout playlist for a few years. Listening to the same music during exercise enhances performance by tapping into the power of neuroplasticity. When you consistently pair specific music with physical activity, your brain creates associations between those songs and the energy, motivation, and focus required. Just hearing the first notes of my playlist trigger a cascade of neural responses, priming my body for the workout ahead.

The brain operates on efficiency. As your brain becomes accustomed to the routine, it expends less energy on the mental aspects of getting ready to exercise, freeing up more resources for actual physical performance. Essentially, your brain and body sync up to create a seamless flow, making each workout smoother and more effective. I don’t even really hear the music anymore. I just go straight into a flow state and focus into my meat suit. Occasionally I pause and listen intently, shake my booty, and carry on. 

Recognizing that, it’s time to shake the snow globe, I’ve introduced new music into my routine to stimulate different areas of the brain, aimed at further promoting neuroplasticity; variety in the music selection prevents any routine from becoming too predictable and keeps your brain engaged. 

So far what I’ve noticed is that I have to use a lot more mental energy to do the same things—losing efficiency. I’m also struggling with focus. This week my workouts have been more brainstorming sessions for literally anything you can imagine than the quiet focus I’m used to. But that is exactly why I’m doing it, hoping I not only find flow in something new, but build adaptability and resilience.