Plastic brain {Blogtoberfest Day 2}

This week I began reading the most fascinating book. Have you read bestselling The brain that changes itself?

I'm about a third of the way through this non-fiction work, by research psychiatrist and psychoanalyst Norman Doidge. His very readable book argues that the adult brain is "plastic" or malleable. The stories are amazing. The idea that the brain has the ability to re-wire and change structure right into old age is truly inspiring.

I've already started to rethink some stuff.

For example: some while ago we purchased an exciting bit of computer periphery. The tablet pen looked so promising - I was awfully keen to try doing some digital illustration. But sadly I was thwarted by my hand-eye coordination. Even stick figures were appalling; some might say unrecognisable. I started to think things about old dogs and new tricks and eventually decided to stick with the humble pencil. I gave up.

This afternoon I noticed Mr HB had plugged in the tablet pen. Plastic brain, I told myself. I sat down and started scribbling random stuff over and over again. I drew little flowers and smiley faces and tried signing my name. Then I tried a little Spring drawing (above). Its not quite what was in my head ... but it was fun all the same.

I'll keep exercising my plastic brain.


The Brain That Changes Itself: Stories of Personal Triumph from the Frontiers of Brain Science
Norman Doidge
Viking 2007
ISBN 067003830X