“We often think of the brain as a fixed and fragile organ, but in reality, it’s dynamic and adaptable.” Those were the words I used to open my conversation with Dr. Alejandra Guerrero, a neurologist whose research explores one of the brain’s most fascinating abilities — its capacity to heal and rewire itself, in other words, neuroplasticity. To learn more about this remarkable process, I sat down with Dr. Guerrero, who explained, “Neuroplasticity is the brain’s superpower. It’s the ability of the brain to rewire itself — to create new connections or even new cells.”

The Brain as a Living Tree

Dr. Guerrero compares the brain to a tree — an image that vividly captures the life and growth within our neural networks.

“Depending on its environment, a tree can thrive, grow new branches, and bloom,” she explained. “But when struck by a storm — or in our case, an injury — it may lose a branch. With the right nutrients, care, and environment, it can grow again, often stronger than before. We are the gardeners of our own brains.”

During childhood, this tree grows rapidly — the period of highest neuroplasticity. As we age, growth slows, but it never disappears. “Even in adulthood and old age, we can still grow new branches,” Dr. Guerrero emphasized. “If we continue to nurture our brain, it will never dry out.”

Reflecting on this, I told her, “It’s fascinating how people often think that once something in the brain is damaged, it’s gone forever — but hearing you explain it makes me realize that healing is actually possible.”

Dr. Guerrero nodded. “Exactly. The brain is resilient. It’s never too late to change.”

Feeding the Brain: The Ingredients for Growth

When asked what “nutrients” keep this metaphorical tree thriving, Dr. Guerrero listed four essentials: nutrition, exercise, social connection, and mindset.

• Nutrition: “The food we give our body — and therefore our brain — determines whether it will grow or dry out,” she said. Whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and omega-3s nourish neural growth, while processed foods and refined sugar diminish it.

• Exercise: “Exercise is one of the best ways to boost neuroplasticity,” she explained. “Aerobic workouts increase BDNF — brain-derived neurotrophic factor — which acts as fertilizer for neurons. Strength training releases myokines from muscles that also stimulate brain growth.”

• Social Connection: Human interaction strengthens the brain’s wiring. “Neurons are social,” she said. “They reach for each other — just like people do. When we connect with others, our brain forms more connections.”

• Mindset and Emotion: “Healing your trauma or cultivating positive thinking makes your brain stronger,” Dr. Guerrero added. “Negative thought loops, on the other hand, can increase the risk of dementia. The key is to train the brain — to choose better thoughts and patterns every day.”

Breaking Myths About the Brain

Only two decades ago, the idea that the adult brain could grow new cells was dismissed. “Twenty years ago, people thought that once the brain was damaged, that was it,” Dr. Guerrero recalled. “But now, hundreds of studies prove the opposite. The brain is dynamic — even in old age, it can grow new baby neurons.”

However, recovery takes time and consistency. “Forming a new habit in 21 days is optimistic,” she said. “It usually takes around 12 weeks for measurable changes to appear, and up to 18 months for full rewiring. It’s a process of repetition and patience.”

Technology and the Future of Brain Healing

Dr. Guerrero also spoke about the future of neuroscience. “We’re entering an era that feels like science fiction,” she said. “There are projects developing microchips and brain implants to help people walk again or communicate through thought. The brain’s electrical activity can now be synchronized with devices to restore function.”

But she also offered a word of caution: “For healthy people, the best form of brain enhancement is still natural — eat well, move often, sleep deeply, and think positively. You don’t need biohacking to have a strong brain.”

The Power of Mindset and Hope

When I asked what advice she’d give to those struggling with recovery, her answer was both scientific and deeply human.

“Mindset is everything,” she said firmly. “Even visualizing your body healing can help. The connection between mind and body is powerful. If you have hope, consistency, and effort, you can rewire your brain — and your life.”

A Brain That Never Stops Growing

Dr. Guerrero’s work reminds us that healing isn’t just about repair — it’s about rediscovery. The brain, much like the human spirit, thrives when cared for with patience and purpose.

As our conversation ended, I was left thinking about her metaphor — and my own takeaway: our brains are gardens, constantly growing, constantly capable of renewal. With the right care and belief, even the most damaged branches can bloom again.