Types of Neuroplastic Change

As the science of neuroplasticity continues to develop, the four main types or stages of neuroplastic change can be simplified into the following general categories, timelines, and classifications.

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1. Functional Neuroplasticity

• A very rapid recruitment of existing synaptic and neuronal patterns that can express activity within minutes to hours.
• The effect may not be enduring, although its short-term expression can be significant.

2. Synaptic Neuroplasticity

• New patterns of synaptic relationships are elicited and, with reinforcement, may persist for some time.
• These new synaptic relationships and patterns can be stimulated over periods of days to weeks.

3. Neuronal Neuroplasticity

• Actual new nerve growth is stimulated to facilitate new adaptive patterns of neuroplasticity.
• These new nerves are stimulated into growth over a period of months.

4. Systemic Neuroplasticity

• This stage represents the complex integration of neuroplastic change across related systemic functions and organs.
• Systemic integration is stimulated through reinforcement over the course of a year or more.

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The Super-Dynamics of Neuroplasticity

This is a somewhat technical description of how the Brain as a Whole responds to information directed toward positive Neuroplastic Change. These principles underlie the functional activities of the Neuro Light.

There are four basic stages or steps in how the Brain as a Whole responds to Neuroplastic Change:

1. Neuro-Stimulation — the “input reaction”; 0–2 hours
2. Neuro-Modulation — the “reaction response”; 2–8 hours
3. Neuro-Relaxation — the “response relief”; 8–24 hours
4. Neuro-Differentiation — the “relief result”; 24–48 hours

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1. Neuro-Stimulation

Neuro-Stimulation is like giving information or food to a hungry brain. The brain needs this information to keep learning and solving problems. It is described as mandatory for self-organization and adaptation.

This stage triggers a mobilization of self-regulation, with changes beginning immediately, even at this early stage.

2. Neuro-Modulation

Neuro-Modulation engages multiple Brain Networks, improving their functions and decreasing the super-sensitivities that may have developed as the Brain lacked certain adaptive responses.

The Neuro-Modulation stage is also described as allowing the Brain Stem “Reticular Activating System” (RAS) to reset. This helps calm and normalize the arousal level associated with these super-sensitivities.

3. Neuro-Relaxation

Neuro-Relaxation follows Neuro-Modulation as arousal levels are reset and super-sensitivities are calmed. The Brain Networks and associated circuits can then “Rest & Restore” themselves.

Neuro-Modulation activities can continue by engaging dormant circuits involved in Movement, Mental, and Sensory Neuroplastic stimulating signals. These signals become more potent in converting “brain signals” into “mind messages.”

According to this framework, corrected self-regulation through brain modulation, brain rest, and restored energy allows brain rhythms to be restored.

This is also described as a stage in which a person may have an opportunity to overcome maladaptive learning involved in the Limbic Trauma Loop (aka PTSD), as well as other maladaptations.

4. Neuro-Differentiation

Neuro-Differentiation is described as the resultant long-lasting stage in which enduring positive learning can be integrated into Stable State brain functioning. At this stage, the new habits take charge.