Using Play to Rewire & Improve Your Brain
from Huberman Lab
by Scicomm Media
Published: Mon Feb 07 2022
Show Notes
In this episode, I discuss the transformative nature of play—how it changes our feelings, thoughts and actions and indeed, how it can rewire our brain to function better in all contexts. I explain the role of play in childhood, as well as adulthood in skill and social development and describe key characteristics of the mind and body during play. Additionally, I explore how play allows the brain to test contingencies in different roles/environments. Throughout, I discuss the underlying neurobiology of play. I also describe how low-stakes play, and tinkering can broaden and shape your future capabilities. Finally, I discuss how our childhood ‘personal play identity’ informs our adult personality. Throughout the episode, I use the science of play to outline recommendations for using play as a means to enhance neuroplasticity and explore novel situations, regardless of age.
For the full show notes, visit hubermanlab.com.
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Timestamps
(00:00:00)The Power of Play
()Tool: Reading on Smart Phones, Sighing & Learning
()Sponsors: AG1, LMNT
()Homeostatic Regulation of Play
()Childhood Play & Mindsets
()Contingency Testing
()The (Power of) Playful Mindset
()Body Postures
()Rule Testing & Breaking
()Role Play
()Neurobiology of Low-stakes Play
()Expanding Capabilities through Tinkering
()Play Is THE Portal to Neuroplasticity
()Adulthood Play
()Fire Together, Wire Together
()Trauma & Play Deficits & Recovery
()Competition & Dynamic Movement
()Chess, Mental Roles, Novelty
()Personal Play Identity
()Play Transforms Your Future Self
()Recommendations for Play
()Zero-Cost Support, Spotify/Apple Reviews, YouTube, Sponsors, Instagram, Twitter, Supplements
Title Card Photo Credit: Mike Blabac