Brain Training.......insights into the Art of Self Hypnosis

 

I was diagnosed several years ago with Bi-Polar Depression; that is much easier to say than "I am Bi-Polar."  It may just be a matter of semantics, but to me it feels more like something I deal with on a day to day basis as part of my personality instead of an "affliction". In any case, over the years I have had plenty of experience and therapy for learning techniques for calming my Bi-Polar brain activity.  Even if one is not Bi-Polar....let's face it, we all have issues. If we can generate the ability to center ourselves and calm our minds it's very beneficial in this chaotic world we live in.

Sigmund Freud--1921

I am not the master of utilizing hypnosis as taught by Sigmund Freud, the "master" of hypnotic therapy, but I am able to use several of his pioneering techniques.  It's interesting that I always thought of Freud as the "Father" of hypnotherapy, but research on the topic reveals that in the latter part of the 18th century Franz Mesmer, a German physician began developing healing techniques based on hypnosis. Then in the late 1880's, Freud was impressed by the therapeutic techniques of hypnosis and their potential use for healing neurotic disorders.  Like many techniques, in the light of new knowledge, Freud abandoned the use of hypnosis in 1896 and formulated the use of psychoanalysis.

Just like many techniques for healing and wellness change, our quest today for a healthy mind continues and it's interesting how the tools for achieving nirvana have changed.  With the ever-present dependence on our phones and technology...it is no surprise that many apps have surfaced for meditation in our busy lives.  An internet search shows that there are at least 15 available apps to be used to facilitate meditation and mindfulness.

 

When I looked through many of these apps they sound so appealing with exercises generated to produce a sense of calm.  Yet, when you get to the "bottom line", a monthly fee (with amazing ranges on amounts!) will be required after your "free trial" period. Well, that does not help me eliminate stress.  I think I can learn how to breath and practice free association without adding to the STRESS of having another monthly bill to pay.  Yet, among those programs, I did find one that was very intriguing and yes it was free...always. It is called Smiling Mind.  I downloaded and have tried it several times. It is a pretty impressive program with all different age groups in mind.  It is also includes specialized programs for educators and healthcare workers. I really like it and am encouraged by it...and I don't even have to stress over a monthly bill. Another interesting thing about this app is that you have the choice of a Male or Female voice. I initially choice female...like a friend talking to me. However I may need to change it because she sounds so much like the GPS in my car.  I expect her at any minute to say turn left at the end of the road. SIGH...oh, the strange idiosyncrasies of modern technology.

Another technique I have learned for calming and meditation (and in my case usually an aid to sleep) is the use of deep breathing and the use of a one word chant. Using just one word helps your mind funnel down to what is really important. Use one word to INHALE, then another word on the EXHALE. The words that I use, and the simplicity of this simple exercise,  came to to me as an inspiration from our Pastor.  He recommended to inhale and think of God's Grace, then on the exhale give your worries and pain to God.  So for purposes of simplicity, I use Inhale:GRACE, then Exhale: PAIN. It almost always works for me.

Tai Chi at Sunset

So no one can deny the strong body/mind connection. Yoga is a perfect example of how this practice can be used not only for physical well being, but to enhance mindfulness through meditation. As an overweight, older woman with bad knees....my Yoga days are pretty much over. Yet I absolutely love the practice of Tai Chi. It helps balance, strength, focus and definitely helps foster a sense of calm. I have taken several classes in recent years, but have yet to find classes since I moved. I'm thinking a DVD of it just wouldn't be the same. My quest for a Tai Chi class continues.

So every individual has differing needs to maintain their mental health and overall well-being. I would be interested to hear my Dear Readers your techniques to wellness. Also, there are so many options out there...do you have a favorite?  So don't forget to breath and if at all possible...RELAX.

 

An Extrovert Living in an Introverted World

On the spectrum of Extroverted or Introverted I have always been classified as leaning more on the Extroverted side.  I remember my Mother telling me that I could strike up a conversation with just about anyone at any given time....and make it a good conversation for both people. It's a gift, or a curse...depending on the circumstance. 

Our world has become Introverted, temporarily anyway...due to the infamous Pandemic of 2020.  Now the calendar has turned, the vaccinations are rolling out, cases of COVID-19 are decreasing and there appears to be a light at the end of the tunnel. Yet, sometimes I still can't wrap my head around the concept of not shaking hands, not getting close for conversation and most of all NOT hugging your closest friends and family. As a "people person" and Extrovert, I am really starting to suffer. In the long run, I know I will be OK, but sometimes it feels like an uphill battle.

So in the process of waiting for "herd immunity" to be firmly established I have increased the time spent on solitary tasks and hobbies. I always enjoyed Facebook, but EGAD...I have to confess I have seen way too many cat videos and photos of: "try this new dessert!" I have had enough problems with putting on the pandemic pounds; that does not help. Yet, everyday I still keep scrolling. In small doses it is still a fun pastime when you can't have in person conversations.  Of course both of my blogs have had several  posts since this all began and I am happy to report I completed by book on the National Park Service.  OK...here is my shameless plug on that: available on Amazon: "A Walk in the Park...Journeys through our Nation's Greatest Treasures" . It was a fun book to research and write, and a good book if I do say so myself. (Would an Introvert say that? Hmmmm...) Here''s the link: https://www.amazon.com/Walk-Park-Journeys-Greatest-Treasures/dp/1792837771/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=A+Walk+in+the+Park…Journeys+through+our+Nation%27s+Treasures&qid=1611349971&sr=8-1

I also have started a new quilt, which I am hopeful will be beautiful when complete. But I fear that as soon as my world starts opening up with my social activities, the quilt may be put by the wayside. Perhaps it will become a project for next winter, not a project for the next pandemic...let's hope there will never be another as awful as this.

Either way you perceive yourself, an Introvert or Extrovert....which ever side of the fence you lean, I thought this Clint Eastwood meme was great. Everyone can relate to that and it really brought me a chuckle. If I recall, I think that looks like his film Gran Torino. You can't help but like Clint...a classic.

In any case, there are both Extroverts and Introverts struggling to get through this particular time in our history. So many believe that Introverts are able to handle the isolation of this pandemic better then Extroverts.  But a recent study suggests the opposite, according to a Forbes article. The study, conducted by Virginia-based research consultancy, Greater Divide, surveyed 1,000 American adults and found that those who scored higher on the measure of extroversion were less likely to be experiencing mental health issues due to stay-at-home or quarantine measures.

Some experts contribute the surprising results to extroversion being associated with more positive emotions, optimism and resiliency, while introversion has been linked to more nervousness and fear. The uncertainty of this pandemic may be more difficult for introverts.While the study suggests that extroverts may be handling the pandemic better than expected, it does not mean they are immune to anxiety or stress from the stay-at-home order. Both personality traits have faced mental health challenges during the quarantine and are stressed in their own ways. That being said, it would be good to support each other, no matter what our personality traits may be....

Big changes are coming our way and I am thinking we have much to look forward to. Additionally, the fact that spring is right around the corner always brings folks a sunnier outlook.  Start planning those flower beds!😄        Julie E . Smith