how to move forward with your story...and rewrite the ending

 

A couple of weeks ago I wrote about the mindboggling research that has changed the way we look at genetics. For a storyteller, it offers elements of fantasy, mystery, and adventure. The fact that our genes express themselves differently depending on our environment and experience. The fact that we have the ability to modify the traits we pass on to future generations. The incomprehensible complexity, interconnectedness, and precision of it all. 

"You must find the place inside yourself

where nothing is impossible."

~Deepak Chopra~

But that was then...and this is now. Now we're into mindblowing research...research into the brain, and the world of neuroplasticity: the brain's ability to change itself. Back in the 1970s, we were taught that the central nervous system could not repair or restore itself following injury, whether through trauma, stroke, or illness. We have since learned that this is not entirely true. The nervous system has the ability to adapt, compensate, and restore lost function. Let's say you sustain a cut, and afterwards, your finger is numb. Then gradually sensation returns as the nerves develop new connections. They repair themselves. Years ago, paralyzing strokes spelled the end for patients. They were left bedridden and helpless. Now we know that many patients can learn to walk again with appropriate rehab and retraining. The nerves establish new connections, and function is restored. This remodeling is the basis for neuroplasticity, the brain's ability to change.

In fact, the brain is continously remodeling itself. Injury is not required to trigger the process. The brain changes in response to the environment, our experiences, stress, and learning. Just our thoughts have the ability to change our brains!

"Our brains renew themselves

throughout life

to an extent previously thought

not possible."

~Michael S. Gazzaniga~

Imagine it! You can promote neuroplasticity by exposing yourself to new experiences, by setting out to learn new skills, and by considering new and different perspectives. A passion for life, enthusiasm, and purpose all promote neuroplasticity. 

The key is awareness. Being skeptical of habitual responses. Examining past conditioning. Naming your emotions. Exploring your core beliefs. Cultivating empathy. Seeking support. This makes it possible to cultivate happiness and compassion the same way we learn to play golf or master a musical instrument. With practice and intention.

This is good news for those of us in the medical profession. It gives our patients hope, and it gives new meaning to the word "recovery." For those of us who are aging faster than we had hoped we would, it gives us a tool to wield against the decline we associate with growing older. It is a powerful force against depression and anxiety. 

It enables us to move forward with our story, and to rewrite the ending.

"Instructions for living a life:

Pay attention.

Be astonished.

Tell about it."

~Mary Oliver~

jan