Learning languages is great for your brain. However many people do not really know why, so keep reading to discover it.
It is obvious that keeping our brain sharp is one of the keys to living the life to the fullest. Different studies show that language learning is directly related to positive changes in the human brain and I´m happy to share some of their findings with you.
Why learning languages is great for your brain
1. Cross-fit for your mind: get your brain toned up!
Human brain is one of the most fascinating organs: every experience we get, every memory we make, every habit we maintain and every one that we ditch - our brain keeps on creating new neuronal connections and undoing the ones not used.
This truly extraordinary proprety to change physically, functuonally or, even, reconfigure its structure completely is called neuroplasticity, and language learning, in fact, is an ultimate exercise to make your brain fitter, stronger and more flexible!
Successful second lanuage learners show greater interaction within or between neuro networks: so they are able to think quicker. What´s more - they have a more coherent multi-path network, that enables them to be overall more efficient.
2. It makes your brain bigger (literally).
Studies on highly proficient foreign lenguage speakers, such as interpreters and translators show that, over time, the volume and thickness of the brain increases as needs to switch among languages often enough.
This way, by "upgrading our hardware" we improve the quality of our performance in a variety of different tasks, such as decision-making, creative activities, networking and even motor skills.
3. It keeps your brain young.
Language learning brings a lot of benefits in the long run, too.
We need to activate many different areas of our brain simultaneously when we lean new words, try to comprehend new grammar, use new phrases and start to understand what we listen to and read in a new language.
This way we boost our memory and cognitive skills and slow down our brain´s ageing.
4. As you get more and more fluent you use less and less brain.
Another good news - studies show that using foreign languages does get easier with practice! In fact, as a language learner gets closer and closer to the "native-like" proficiency - they gradually stop using the areas responsible cognitive control and their speech becomes more automatic and effortless.
5. More languages you know - more worldviews you get to experience.
Apart from obvious practical benefits - by learning a new language you also get to discover a whole new way of expression, explore a culture that may differ from yours, and get to know a unique type of thinking.
There are plenty of concepts that are impossible to translate, from one language to another, but, with enough context, it is more than possible to learn them and introduce them into your perception of the reality! Your mind gets more "tools" to form the thoughts from and you´ll get a chance to see the world around you from a brand new perspective.
In conclusion, it doesn´t matter where you are on your lanuage learning journey - training your brain this way will definitely pay off. Just make sure you are consistent, determinated and, most importantly, motivated to keep on working out and keeping your head in the best shape.
Ready for some practice?
I'll be more than happy to help you out!
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