The book highlights how psychedelics promote neuroplasticity, momentarily increasing the brain's ability to form new connections and pathways. This disruption of entrenched neural patterns allows for cognitive flexibility, making it easier to adopt healthier behaviors and thoughts. Pollan likens this process to 'temporarily flattening the snow on a hill, allowing new sled trails to form,' illustrating the ability to rewire the brain for better mental health outcomes. This mechanism underpins the potential of psychedelics to treat conditions characterized by rigid thinking, such as depression and addiction. | Michael Pollan | How to Change Your Mind

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Neuroplasticity and Cognitive Flexibility

The book highlights how psychedelics promote neuroplasticity, momentarily increasing the brain's ability to form new connections and pathways. This disruption of entrenched neural patterns allows for cognitive flexibility, making it easier to adopt healthier behaviors and thoughts. Pollan likens this process to 'temporarily flattening the snow on a hill, allowing new sled trails to form,' illustrating the ability to rewire the brain for better mental health outcomes. This mechanism underpins the potential of psychedelics to treat conditions characterized by rigid thinking, such as depression and addiction.

-- Michael Pollan