Adult human brains are progressively wired since birth. Early on as infants neuroplasticity (the brain's ability to change its wiring) is relatively high in comparison to adults. This change in neuroplasticity over time can be seen in the image above which comes from a fascinating 2013 scientific paper which is well worth a read:
One suggested reason for this reduction in the ability to change the mind is that neuroplasticity is arguably a higher energy state which requires effort to maintain whilst a non-neuroplastic state takes less energy. Humans on average before the 1900's only lived till their mid 40's at best so there have been no evolutionary selective pressures to keep this trait open.
But don't despair, if you are above the age of 40, in the words of Michael Polan there is still a way to answer the question "How to Change Your Mind" above the age of 40,
Pivotal Mental States (PIMs)
PIMs are specific mental or emotional states that are considered pivotal or central to creating fast, positive change, personal growth, and transformation in individuals' lives. Pivotal mental states are seen as catalysts for self-discovery, healing, and achieving desired outcomes. PIMs have been widely researched and have been found1 to be induced by the following:
- Electroconvulsive Therapy
- Overview Effect
- Near Death Experience
- Psychedelics
Obviously, some of these methods of inducing PIMs are more readily available than others. Especially as there is now a wide decriminalisation effort of psychedelics around the globe.
If you are interested in how to quickly change your mind and live in an area where psychedelics are legal, you can access our free introduction to psychedelic medicine via The Fundamentals of Psychedelic Course. Once you understand the basics, you can then progress to our Psychedelic Preparation Course, where you can access bespoke courses based upon which psychedelic is going to be used. Lastly, you can then access our Psychedelic Integration Course which can help you neurohack over the neuroplastic period which can last up to a month after.
References
1Pivotal mental states. Brouwer A, Carhart-Harris RL. Journal of Psychopharmacology. 2021;35(4):319-352. doi:10.1177/0269881120959637. Accessed on 24th September 2022 via https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/0269881120959637