Huberman Lab Essentials: Using Play to Rewire & Improve Your Brain
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Jan 29, 2026 They dig into how play engages specific brain circuits and neurochemicals to let us test 'if A then B' scenarios in low-stakes settings. They explore universal play postures, group dynamics, rule-breaking and role play as tools for perspective shifting. They highlight physical and non-physical play like dance and chess as ways to boost neuroplasticity and creative flexibility.
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Play As Contingency Testing
- Play is contingency testing that lets you explore 'if I do A, what happens?' in low-stakes settings.
- This expands prefrontal cortex operations and increases cognitive flexibility across the lifespan.
Neurochemistry That Enables Play
- The periaqueductal gray releases endogenous opioids during play which enables the prefrontal cortex to explore new roles.
- Elevated endogenous opioids plus low adrenaline make the prefrontal cortex 'smarter' and more plastic.
Seek Low-Stakes Practice Regularly
- Do put yourself into low-stakes scenarios where you might not be the best so you can learn about others and yourself.
- Enter those situations focused but without high epinephrine so play circuitry and learning engage.
