So, how do we begin to dismantle rigidity & embrace MENTAL AGILITY?
Research now shows that the radical acceptance of all of our emotions, including the messy, difficult ones is the CORNERSTONE to RESILIENCE, THRIVING, & TRUE AUTHENTIC, HAPPINESS.
But MENTAL AGILITY is more than just an acceptance of emotions.
It’s also about forming new pathways in the brain. WHY? Because ACCURACY MATTERS. In my own research, I found that words are essential. We often use quick & easy labels to describe our feelings. “I’m stressed,” is the most common one I hear.
But there is a world of difference between stress and disappointment OR Stress and that knowing dread of “I’m in the wrong career.“ When we label our emotions accurately were able to discern the precise cause of our feelings. And what scientist call the readiness potential in our brain is activated allowing us to take concrete steps. But not just any steps… The right steps for us. Because our emotions are data.
In talking about SIMPLE, PRACTICAL steps for using your mind to change your brain for the better…
We all know how important nutrition is. But how often do we relate nutrition to our brain…? For most, not at all.
1. You’ve GOT to FEED YOUR BRAIN
One of the most amazing and complex organs you own is your brain. It’s a costly organ to maintain and accounts for about 2 percent of your total body weight. It also requires roughly 20 percent of your energy when you are at rest—pretty significant for just one organ.
As you think about how much energy it takes just to maintain your brain at rest, let alone your other organs, think about the end of your long day. After returning home from using your brain all day, you can blame the tiredness you feel on having to feed this voracious gas-guzzler. Anything short of energy food potentially robs the capacity of your brain power. Vitamin D and magnesium are top priorities if you want to promote neuroplasticity.
2. Don't let the work day LINGER
Like muscle-building, neuroplasticity needs downtime in order to do its work properly. Leaders/managers should embed and enforce a “close the day” ritual that prioritizes reflection and gratitude for small wins. An end-of-day slack message saying “Thanks for the great ideas in the brainstorming session today, everyone. See you tomorrow,” can help the team feel valued. Putting a hard stop to the #stress of the day in a way that also boosts endorphins creates perfect conditions for neuroplasticity. Bonus: it also sends the signal that it’s OK to “leave” work and unplug for the evening.
3. Expand your VOCABULARY
Try to learn one new word every day. According to experts, this simple act will spark a multitude of new neural pathways, both visual and auditory.
4. Use the “WRONG” hand
Non-dominant hand exercises are excellent for forming new neural pathways, as well as strengthening the connectivity between existing neurons. For instance, if you’re right-handed, try brushing your teeth with your left hand – and then try it while balancing on one leg for a double neuroplasticity bonus.
5. Do mnemonic DRILLS
Teaching yourself mnemonic devices, like formulas or rhymes, can enhance connectivity in your prefrontal parietal network, paving the way to new, positive pathways in your brain.
6. Be MNDFUL as A TEAM
One of the best things you can do to promote neuroplasticity in a work force is to incorporate regular group meditation. There are multiple online options available to get you started. Not only does it help with the positive brain rewiring process (while expanding several useful parts of the brain),it also results in team members responding to problems with a increased sense of calm, passion, and awareness. Neuroplasticity at its finest.