Resilience training that can change the brain

It has been observed that the “body keeps score” of the impact of cumulative traumatic and victimizing experiences in impacting on both the structure and functioning of the brain. That is part of why the effect of traumatic experiences can linger over time. The good news is that the brain, which is the organ with the most plasticity in the body, also keeps score of the impact of engaging in a variety of resilience-engendering behaviors. Engaging in resilience bolstering behavior is not only beneficial to cope with the immediate threatening situation but it changes the brain in important ways. This article reviews the literature on the beneficial impact of controlling negative emotions, engaging in activities that nurture positive emotions and that employ meaning-making activities. Each of these activities in combination can change the brain and bolster resilience.

Resilience training that can change the brain