November’s Mindfulness Monthly Memo focuses on the concept of New Ways. This month’s theme highlights the act of trying new things or activities to boost one’s wellbeing.

Children naturally try new things and engage in new activities in their daily lives, whether it be at school, home, or the community. Through novel exploration of their environment, children develop new interests, discover abilities, and cultivate skills, helping them to understand themselves and their purpose in life. As we get older and take on greater “grown-up” responsibilities, trying new things becomes less automatic. As adults, we find ourselves forcefully seeking out opportunities, making it scarier, more vulnerable, and less likely to try new things. 

Research shows that through each new experience we try, our lives become more meaningful and full. The science behind this is a process called neuroplasticity, which “is the brain’s ability to change and adapt its neural networks through growth and reorganization” (North Range Behavioral Health, 2025). In other words, new experiences stimulate our brains and allow new neural pathways to be created, helping us to develop meaningful memories. Science also shows that when someone tries a new experience, the dopamine neurotransmitter is released into the brain, which improves their mood and promotes positive emotions surrounding the new experience. 

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