Ever wondered about neuroplasticity?
Imagine being able to change the structure of your brain just by what you think, do, and feel.
Neuroplasticity has become more and more popular over the years.
(Check out my earlier posts.)
Can we change our brains to be in a constant state of bliss?
Although Dawson Church opens “Bliss Brain” with a frightening and traumatic experience, we get the sense that bliss is always possible.
One of the things that Dawson Church teaches is the Emotional Freedom Technique. This is the use of tapping on acupuncture points to relieve psychological trauma. Many people have found this technique to be very effective.
He has also studied how meditation activates certain areas of the brain. When we activate the happiness centers in the brain through meditation, they grow. It makes sense then that the “fear-processing” centers will start to shrink from non-use.
If you find it difficult to meditate there are meditation practices throughout the book that I have found helpful. Also, keep in mind that meditation is often experienced in a cycle.
First, we focus on the meditative state.
Then, our mind wanders.
Next, we become aware of the wandering and come back to the meditative focus.
Seems more realistic, right?
It is also important to have a daily gratitude practice. This is simply taking a few minutes to write down the things you are grateful for.
At the beginning of chapter 2, there is a step-by-step guide to entering “Bliss Brain”. Among the steps is the idea of sending love to everyone and everything that will be encountered throughout the day. This has been a great tool for me, especially concerning my day job. I have never really felt this peaceful going into work each day.
Furthermore, Dawson Church says that he feels the insights that arise from this type of meditation are far above what he would normally be capable of.
If that doesn’t spark your interest…
I enjoyed the explanation of which parts of the brain are activated during meditation and which parts are shut down. One area mentioned in particular is the Default Mode Network (DMN), which Dawson compares to the demon. At first, this made me laugh…then I realized how true it could be. This area is focused on the self and brings about worrying and random thoughts. This is the area that is activated when our mind wanders during meditation. We definitely want to shut it down.
There are plenty of other examples of how meditation changes our brains throughout the book. From chemical changes to physical changes. The idea of “Bliss Brain” should not be underestimated.
Have you ever tried EFT or other meditation practices?
Hit the comments below and thanks for stopping by, I appreciate every one of you!
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