Are your thoughts on repeat? For many of us, not existing in flow, this is a known scientific fact. Scientists have determined that 95% of our thoughts are recycled from the previous day. Now the exact number may vary, yet it is safe to say the majority of our thoughts are recycled day to day. The idea that "95% of our thoughts today are the same as those we had yesterday" comes from the concept that much of our daily thinking and behavior is habitual and driven by subconscious patterns.

Yet, the feature of awareness can be used to amplify the parts of us we are not content with in order to promote change whenever necessary. Perhaps, that is simply 5-10% of thinking that allows us the freedom of choice. Choice to remain the same or shift towards a north star using our free will. There are a multitude of ways to live life. You can choose your way using this conscious action of will. Maybe, that is why it is referred to as will power. We each possess the power of change. At the drop of a hat we can shift our course towards a destiny unknown. Make sense?

With the mental health crisis on the rise a term is becoming more common. Cognitive dissonance is defined as the state of having inconsistent thoughts, beliefs, or attitudes, especially as relating to behavioral decisions and attitude change. Simply stated this refers to the mental discomfort or tension that arises when a person holds two or more conflicting beliefs, values, or attitudes simultaneously. An example would be ‘a human wants to be healthy, but doesn't exercise regularly or eat a nutritious diet.’ That human may feel guilty as a result. That guilt likely will drive unhealthy behaviors, yet guilt is a topic of tomorrow’s blog. Back to our regularly scheduled program. 

The information age has brought about many “revelations” yet it has also muddied the mental waters. Trust is at an all-time low given all of the conflicting information shared these days. Polarization has become the new standard of relating in society. With all the good that has come with the information age, we have also encountered the greatest separation experienced as a species. So many conflicting viewpoints, it's no wonder we struggle to establish a course of direction with our thinking capacity. That 5-10% ability is so confused it can’t alter the 95% of recycled thoughts. How is this impacting human ingenuity?

Human ingenuity is the ability to think creatively, originally, and cleverly, and to use that thinking to solve problems or invent new things. We are a culture of followers looking for guidance in this world moving at a frantic pace. Seeking connection in any and every possible way. Whether it is to a gender identity, political affiliation, race, ethnicity, religion, medical condition, sports team and insert any other of the thousands of labels available. Each of us simply wants to belong. Connect to something greater than ourselves. Paradoxically, we also want to honor the unique experience of being ourselves. What to do?

Take a deep breath with me now. Settle in as I share my mind with you. Labels have produced much of the hate with experience in life, yet much of the love we experience, too. Labels themselves are not the issue. They exist to express the human need for individuality. The need for freedom of choice reflects our desire for autonomy, self-expression, and control over our own lives, which allows us to pursue personal goals and meaning. It is the comfort of control as an individual that we seek here in an ever changing world. Here is where change causes friction. Uncertainty produces discomfort. Labels provide grounding for individual expression and perceived safety.

The paradox of belonging to something greater is what allowed us to survive as a species. Coming together was the only way! The gift of oxytocin, the love hormone, brought us together in community to fend off a perilous world. Well, for our ancestors who were the true “survivors.” In modern times, the need to belong drives us to conform, seek approval, and align with group norms, as social connections and acceptance are vital for survival and emotional well-being. All done for a dose of that love hormone. Oxytocin is associated with the inner feelings of contentment, trust, relaxation, reduced stress and anxiety and pain relief. All of these benefits from feeling a sense of belonging. 

The tension between the need to belong and the desire for freedom of choice is a fundamental aspect of the human experience. On one hand, we yearn to be part of something larger than ourselves—a tribe, a community, a cause. This connection provides us with a sense of identity, security, and shared purpose. It fulfills our deep-seated need for social bonds, which are crucial for our emotional well-being and survival. Yet, on the other hand, we also crave autonomy and the freedom to chart our own course. The ability to make our own choices, express our individuality, and pursue personal goals is central to our sense of self and fulfillment.

In this delicate balance, the role of leaders becomes pivotal. Just as journeymen of the past traveled from village to village, sharing their knowledge, experiences, and stories, modern leaders must act as guides, bridging the gap between individuality and collective belonging. They must recognize the unique strengths and perspectives of each individual while fostering a sense of unity and shared purpose within the tribe. By doing so, they can help us navigate the complexities of the modern world, where the rapid pace of change often leaves us feeling disconnected and disoriented.

As we move forward in this new era, the concept of tribes must evolve. We need to create communities that honor both the collective and the individual. Tribes that are not just about conformity but also about celebrating diversity and encouraging personal growth. These modern tribes should be spaces where people can come together to share their experiences, challenges, and insights, supporting one another on their journeys while also respecting each person's unique path. In such a tribe, leaders serve not as authoritarian figures but as facilitators, helping to cultivate an environment where everyone can thrive.

Ultimately, the key to thriving in this new way of being is to embrace the paradox of belonging and individuality. By finding a tribe that resonates with our values and aspirations, we can experience the deep sense of connection and support that comes from being part of something greater. At the same time, by nurturing our own individuality and making conscious choices that align with our true selves, we can maintain the freedom and autonomy that are essential for our personal growth and fulfillment. In this way, we can create a world where both belonging and freedom coexist harmoniously, allowing us to live more meaningful and fulfilling lives.

What works better for you? Receiving good vibes or bad vibes from another? Despite the recent emergence of the term toxic positivity, I believe most would answer good vibes. Good vibes are synonymous with good times. In sport and in life, it is favorable to approach every situation with good vibes. Yet, what does that exactly mean? How is it that we interpret vibes anyway? 

Human communication is largely non-verbal. It's estimated that 60% to 93% of communication is conveyed through non-verbal means. This includes body language, facial expressions, gestures, posture, eye contact, tone of voice, and other physical cues. The exact percentage can vary depending on the context and the type of communication, but the consensus is that a significant portion of what we communicate is not spoken but rather expressed through our actions and behaviors. 

For example, psychologist Albert Mehrabian's research suggested that in conveying feelings and attitudes, 55% of communication is through facial expressions, 38% is through tone of voice, and only 7% is through the actual words spoken. While these specific percentages may not apply to all situations, they highlight the importance of non-verbal elements in human interaction. Yet, could vibes also mean vibrations?

Humans do indeed generate and interact with bioelectromagnetic fields, and these fields can be thought of as "vibrations" or oscillations in a broad sense. The concept of "vibrations" is often used metaphorically to describe the energy or emotional state that a person emits, which can influence others. Scientifically, this idea can be linked to measurable bioelectromagnetic fields that our bodies produce.

Humans do possess a bioelectromagnetic field, often referred to as an electromagnetic or energy field. This field is generated by the electrical activity of our cells, tissues, and organs, particularly the heart and brain. It is believed that this bioelectromagnetic field can play a role in non-verbal communication and interactions between individuals. I came to fully understand this concept when I became a HeartMath instructor. 

The HeartMath Institute has conducted extensive research on the heart's electromagnetic field and its potential role in human communication. One of their key findings is that the heart generates the largest electromagnetic field in the body. This field can be measured several feet away from the body using sensitive instruments. The heart's electromagnetic field is not only powerful but also dynamic, changing in response to different emotional states. 

At QHP, we utilize heart rate variability (HRV) as a marker of health. HRV refers to the variation in time intervals between successive heartbeats. It is a valuable biomarker because it reflects the heart’s ability to adapt to varying physiological and environmental conditions, providing insights into the balance between the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems. High HRV typically indicates a robust autonomic nervous system, good emotional regulation, and effective stress management, while low HRV can signify chronic stress, poor emotional regulation, or health issues. By measuring HRV, individuals can gain a deeper understanding of their overall health, stress levels, and resilience, making it a crucial tool for optimizing well-being and performance.

Interestingly, I have been on both sides of the HRV coin. My experience dictates when I am living with authenticity and purpose my HRV rises. My environment typically reflects a symbiosis with others. I believe my bioelectromagnetic field expands. When attempting to force life to happen or living attempting to please others my HRV drops. My tendency is to isolate. My bioelectromagnetic field contracts. HRV is an excellent measure of the balance between the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous system. 

This direct correlation between HRV and our emotional and environmental interactions demonstrates the profound influence our internal states have on our well-being. When we are in flow and engaged authentically with the world, our bioelectromagnetic field, and consequently our HRV, reflect this harmony. This alignment fosters a positive flow of energy, enhancing our emotional resilience and overall health. Conversely, when we are out of sync, our field contracts, signaling stress and disconnection.

Understanding the impact of our emotional states on HRV can guide us towards more effective self-regulation strategies. Practices such as mindfulness, meditation, and emotional awareness can help improve HRV by promoting balance and reducing stress. By focusing on these practices, we can foster a more positive and expansive bioelectromagnetic field, leading to better health outcomes and more fulfilling interpersonal connections.

The concept of good vibes and the associated vibrations we emit can be seen as an extension of our HRV. When our HRV is high, we are likely radiating positive energy that others can sense and respond to. This creates a reinforcing cycle where positive interactions and high HRV support each other, enhancing our overall well-being and the quality of our relationships.

In practical terms, maintaining a high HRV and positive bioelectromagnetic field requires conscious effort and self-awareness. Integrating practices that support emotional regulation, such as regular exercise, balanced nutrition, and adequate sleep, can contribute to a healthier HRV. Additionally, nurturing authentic connections and staying true to one's values can help sustain a positive emotional state and a vibrant bioelectromagnetic field.

Ultimately, the journey towards a healthier HRV and a more expansive bioelectromagnetic field is a personal one, reflecting our unique experiences and choices. By recognizing the interplay between our emotional states, HRV, and the energy we emit, we can take proactive steps to enhance our well-being and foster more meaningful connections with others. The pursuit of this balance is a testament to the power of integrating mind, body, and spirit in the quest for holistic health.

Embrace the knowledge that our internal states and emotional well-being have tangible effects on our health and relationships. By prioritizing practices that enhance HRV and foster positive vibrations, we can cultivate a more resilient and harmonious existence, both for ourselves and those around us. In doing so, we contribute to a more connected and thriving community, where the ripple effects of our positive energy extend far beyond our individual lives.

I once heard a guy say, ‘He chose money over love.’ I remember thinking. That’s fair. I would never knock someone chasing money. It is a pleasurable ride at times. Yet, for me it didn’t agree. The chase for money is primarily driven by dopamine. The molecule of more. The chemical of anticipation and motivation. The fuel for one’s desires. Here’s the interesting part of the human nervous system. So adaptive. Developing tolerance to most anything dopamine. 

Dopamine can be obtained in a variety of ways. Some healthy. Some are not so healthy. Dopamine is produced with certain activities such as regular exercise, consuming protein rich foods, adequate sleep quality and quantity, meditation, sunlight, music and any hobbies. In contrast, activities such as consuming alcohol, caffeine, sugar, nicotine, cocaine, marijuana, and heroin can all cause dopamine levels to increase. Gambling and pornography also elevate dopamine. These substances and activities can cause a more intense dopamine rush than other activities, which can lead to addiction. 

Dopamine requires some moderation for the sake of health. Tech devices also bring about a great deal of dopamine release. The issue here is screen time. Many are sacrificing a great deal of physical capability for “digital destress.” In the science community, cells phones have been described as ‘designed with the same reward system as slot machines.’ Previously, I mentioned addiction. Too much dopamine has also been linked with mania, hallucinations, delusions, obesity and schizophrenia. One must learn the art of stillness to understand dopamine moderation. Now love brings about dopamine, too. But that’s not all. Enter the love hormone Oxytocin. 

Oxytocin is considered one of the healthiest hormones produced by the human body. It plays a crucial role in social bonding, reducing stress, and promoting feelings of happiness and trust. Oxytocin is released during positive social interactions, such as hugging, kissing, and childbirth, fostering strong connections and emotional support among individuals. Hugging is the big one for me. This hormone also helps lower blood pressure, decrease cortisol levels, and enhance immune function, contributing to overall health. 

Research indicates oxytocin can significantly aid in the repair of heart tissue. Oxytocin binds to receptors in the heart, stimulating the production of cells known as cardiac progenitor cells. These cells help regenerate and repair damaged heart tissue. It heals the heart. Maybe that’s why we often find comfort during hard times when connecting with trusted people. And no addiction with Oxytocin. Studies indicate that repeated exposure to oxytocin does not lead to tolerance. Tolerance occurs when increasingly larger amounts are required to achieve the same effect. Tolerance to dopamine is a hallmark of addictive substances, like cocaine, which is absent in the case of oxytocin. 

Now there is something I want to make clear about Oxytocin. Authenticity is required to experience the greatest natural releases. When individuals act authentically, they create more meaningful and trusting relationships. Authentic interactions are typically characterized by openness, honesty, and vulnerability, each triggers the release of oxytocin. 

This hormone is closely linked to social bonding and is released when people experience positive social interactions. Interestingly, my inner circle looks so different today. The day I accepted I was ready to put the dopamine moderation name tag on, well the old crew, they slowly vanished. Yet, they say allowing one door to close makes way for the next door to open. This time I chose the Oxytocin door. In the past 2 years, I have learned a love I never knew existed. The most important love of all, the love for me.

Self-love is at the center of well-being. To love myself was a task. First, I had to become aware that I didn’t unconditionally love myself. My entire life I was haunted by an inner voice. Two separate beings in one. The outside Alex and the inside alex. The inside always giving final approval for actions in life. Anxieties and worries dominated this way of being. Always concerned with what might happen in the future. Habitual thinking patterns develop, making their way into identity. A very slippery slope. Letting go of the past and future thinking is a requirement to set foot in abundant Oxytocinland. The more present, the more Oxytocin. Connecting deeper with life. Being present becomes the practice on the yellow brick narrow climb to the widest dimensional view.

Every day I practice. I start with my morning prayer, breathwork, cold shower, meditation followed by an ultradian block of morning work. Breakfast to the taste of sunnyside eggs, greens and quinoa. A schedule helps to entrain the mind to be present. The schedule is the process. Like the morning process, I have an afternoon and evening process. The details are rarely the same. Always something new to learn. The mundane becomes the miraculous. Social time is built into my schedule. A daily lunch will be my new goal after August 2. Currently, daily yoga fills my social cup. A beautiful community of heart-centered people moving to heal. So much gratitude for the people and the place. It has been a healing place for me. 

My healing journey has led me to the money of love. In contrast, we all know the cliche ‘for the love of money.’ Money can bring about security and safety. However, it can also bring about chaos and disorder. Chasing novelty becomes a thing. Something is lost along the way for the love of money. Innocence is sacrificed, evidenced by the need for more. Each time exposing another mystery only to adapt to the feeling. Requiring more stimulation each time. A slave staying at the Hotel California. Experiencing the see-saw relationship of pleasure and pain. 

Pain and pleasure balance each other on this see-saw. When dopamine levels are high, we experience pleasure. However, as those levels decrease, the see-saw tips towards pain or discomfort. The brain constantly seeks to maintain homeostasis, so an increase in dopamine (pleasure) is often followed by a decrease (pain) to balance the system.

When the brain becomes accustomed to high levels of dopamine, a sudden drop or lack of stimulation can lead to feelings of discomfort or pain. This is because the brain's baseline for dopamine has been raised, and anything below that threshold can feel like a deficit. This deficit can manifest as withdrawal symptoms, cravings, or general dissatisfaction. Precisely, why I chose to find balance within. Instead chasing the money or currency of love. 

This part of my journey brings us full circle to Oxytocin. Ever since adopting this approach of unconditional self-love, I feel better than ever. Healthier. Happier. Connected. Unconditional self-love has opened doors to deeper, more meaningful relationships. The authenticity I now bring to my interactions fosters trust and vulnerability, which in turn boosts oxytocin levels. This has created a positive feedback loop where each act of self-love and genuine connection enhances my capacity for empathy, reduces stress, and strengthens my immune system. It's fascinating how this hormone, released through simple acts like hugging, sharing a laugh, or even spending quality time with loved ones, can have such a far-reaching impact on both mind and body.

In embracing oxytocin and the principles of unconditional self-love, I have discovered a currency far richer than money. This journey has taught me, the greatest wealth lies in the relationships we nurture, the love we give and receive, and the inner peace that blossoms when we live authentically. As I continue to walk this path, I am constantly reminded that true fulfillment comes not from external pursuits, but from the rich, ever-flowing stream of love within and the connection found with the world we inhabit.

Athletes begin their journey with a dream. The dream never takes into account the various challenges encountered along the path. It is customary for the dreamer to view success without the consideration of the obstacles. The transition from high school to collegiate sports can be difficult. Novelty and freedom offer gentle distractions. While physical and mental demands increase as the talent pool becomes an equalizer. During my experience coaching college athletes I noticed a stress-inducing recurring theme. Playing time.

Each player on a college team is the best of the best of their high school team. The ego, armed with past glories, expects the same level of success without fully grasping the new challenges. Drawing heavily on previous experiences, using them as a map to predict future outcomes. Yet, this prediction ability, while helpful, is far from accurate. It often fails to account for the increased competition, the heightened physical demands, and the emotional resilience required at higher levels of play.

The human brain is constantly managing energy considerations based on the circumstances life offers. This is an unconscious process where the brain evaluates where to allocate mental and physical resources. When an athlete faces a setback, such as reduced playing time or a poor performance, the ego interprets this as a threat. It reacts by recalculating the costs and benefits of pursuing the dream. This calculation often creates a disharmony between imagination and reality.

When reality clashes with the dream, the ego is forced to confront its limitations. This confrontation can be painful and disorienting. Athletes start questioning their abilities, their worth, and their future. The once clear and vibrant dream becomes clouded with doubt. This is where the true test begins. Those who are willing to endure the pain of change rise above, while those who fall into self-victimization remain in the dungeon of mediocrity.

The pain of change involves facing the harsh truths about oneself and the journey ahead. It requires the willingness to adapt, to learn from mistakes, and to grow stronger from setbacks. This process is known as error correction. It’s a fundamental part of development, not just in sports but in life. The ego must learn to accept errors as opportunities for growth rather than as failures.

Error correction is the path to mastery. It involves a cycle of action, feedback, adjustment, and re-action. Athletes who embrace this cycle improve steadily, refining their skills and developing their mental toughness. This continuous improvement is the essence of pursuing excellence. It stands in stark contrast to perfectionism, where the fear of making mistakes can paralyze progress.

In the realm of sports, error correction means analyzing performance data, seeking constructive criticism, and implementing changes. It’s about being proactive rather than reactive. Athletes must develop the ability to objectively evaluate their performance, identify weaknesses, and work diligently to turn those weaknesses into strengths. The definition of a growth mindset.

The ego's role in this process is significant but limited. While it drives the desire for success and recognition, it must also learn to relinquish control and embrace humility. The ego must recognize that it is not omniscient. It cannot predict the future with certainty, nor can it control all variables in a complex and dynamic environment. This acceptance is liberating. It allows athletes to focus on what they can control: their effort, their attitude, and their willingness to learn.

Balancing the ego’s desires with the reality of the journey is crucial. Collegiate athletes need to pursue self-awareness and self-compassion. They must understand that setbacks are not a reflection of their worth, simply a natural part of the growth process. This perspective helps to lessen the emotional turmoil that often accompanies limited playing time.

The ego’s attachment to past successes can also hinder progress. It may resist new methods or strategies, clinging to what worked before. However, the evolving nature of competition requires adaptability. Athletes must be open to new ideas, willing to experiment, and ready to innovate. This flexibility is a hallmark of true champions.

Spiritual health also plays a role in this journey. It involves finding a deeper purpose and meaning in the pursuit of excellence. When athletes connect their efforts to a larger team-oriented vision, beyond personal accolades, they tap into a source of intrinsic motivation that sustains them through the toughest challenges. This spiritual connection of team provides a sense of fulfillment and peace, even in the face of adversity.

Ultimately, the ego’s recognition that it is not the master in its own house leads to a more balanced and resilient approach to life. By embracing error correction, nurturing self-awareness, and connecting to a higher purpose, athletes—and indeed, all of us—can navigate the complexities of our journeys with grace and determination. This holistic approach ensures that we not only achieve our goals but also grow as individuals, capable of facing any challenge that comes our way.

There was a time in human evolution where desire meant survival. The desire to find food, water, shelter, safety and reproduction. Even then, desire came at the cost of suffering. One must suffer to obtain what is desired. Whether physical, mental or emotional, a price is paid to get what we want. If this is an agreed-upon point, then why is suffering avoided in life? Perhaps the issue with desire has nothing to do with suffering.

Enter the paradox of choice. In our modern world, the abundance of options can paralyze us. We are overwhelmed by the multitude of paths we can take to fulfill our desires. This abundance creates a unique kind of suffering, decision fatigue. Each choice carries an opportunity cost, and the fear of making the wrong choice can be paralyzing. It's not just about fulfilling desire anymore; it's about navigating a maze of options without losing our way.

The key to navigating this labyrinth lies in aligning our desires with our core values and purpose. When our desires are in harmony with who we truly are, the path to fulfillment becomes clearer. This alignment reduces the noise of unnecessary options and focuses our energy on what truly matters. This is why we focus on character development as part of our process. It’s a process of refining our desires, stripping away the superficial wants that lead to fleeting satisfaction, and focusing on the more meaningful aspirations that bring lasting fulfillment. We will call these true desires rather than instinctual desires.

This process is not without its challenges. It requires introspection and self-awareness. We must pause and reflect on what we truly want, beyond the immediate gratification and external validation. This introspection is a form of suffering in itself, as it involves confronting our fears, insecurities, and the possibility that we have been chasing the wrong desires. Yet this suffering is a necessary part of growth and transformation. A suffering worth experiencing. 

Once we have identified our true desires, the next step is to develop the skills and mindset needed to achieve them. This is where the journey diverges from simply wishing for something to actively working towards it. It involves setting realistic goals, developing resilience, and embracing the inevitable setbacks and failures along the way. The pursuit of true desires demands discipline, patience, and a willingness to learn and adapt.

This journey is deeply intertwined with our mental and emotional health. The more aligned our desires are with our character skills, the less we are driven by external pressures and the more we can pursue a sense of inner peace and contentment. This alignment reduces the mental clutter and anxiety that often accompany the pursuit of superficial desires. It allows us to focus our mental energy on what truly brings us joy and fulfillment.

In terms of physical health, the pursuit of true desires often leads to healthier lifestyle choices. When our goals are aligned with our overall well-being, we are more likely to engage in activities that support our physical health. This might include regular exercise, proper breathing, balanced nutrition, and adequate rest. The body thrives when it is in harmony with the mind and spirit, creating a holistic sense of well-being.

Spiritually, the pursuit of true desires is a journey towards self-actualization. It is about becoming the best version of ourselves and living a life that is true to our deepest values and purpose. This spiritual journey is not about achieving perfection, but about embracing our imperfections and striving for continuous growth and improvement. It is about finding meaning and purpose in our lives and using our desires as a guide towards our highest potential.

The pursuit of true desires also enhances our relationships. When we are aligned with our character skills, we are more authentic in our interactions with others. This authenticity creates deeper connections and more meaningful relationships. We are less likely to engage in superficial or toxic relationships that drain our energy and more likely to build supportive and nurturing connections that enhance our well-being and the collective well-being of our world. 

As we become more adept at fulfilling our true desires, we also become more resilient in the face of adversity. The inevitable challenges and setbacks become opportunities for growth rather than obstacles to be feared. We develop a mindset of abundance rather than scarcity, seeing each experience as a valuable lesson on our journey towards fulfillment.

Ultimately, the pursuit of true desires leads to a more fulfilling and meaningful life. It transforms suffering into a catalyst for growth and empowers us to live authentically and purposefully. By aligning our desires with our core values and purpose, we navigate the paradox of choice with clarity and confidence, creating a life that is rich in meaning and joy.

So, let us not shy away from desire or the suffering it may entail. Instead, let us embrace the journey of refining our desires, aligning them with our true selves, and cultivating the skills and mindset needed to fulfill them. In doing so, we transform suffering into a pathway to growth and fulfillment, living a life that is truly worth living.

The journey to peak performance in any aspect of life starts by understanding the power that lies within each of us: the power of choice. Whether free will exists or not, I leave to philosophers to discuss. I can only speak from a place of experience when it comes to this subject. Choice creates paradox. It is in the paradoxes of life that we find our strengths and weaknesses. Therefore, it is in action that we express choice.

As a recovering overthinker, I learned the perils of being stuck in my head. As far as I can recall, thinking has occurred in parallel with life. It is through thinking that I have experienced the highs and lows in life. It is through thinking that I have expressed action in life. It is through thinking that I have wrestled with the paradox that is life. Complex thinking is the gift we all possess, granted to us as a result of our collaborative ways.

Scarcity is where our species emerged from. The timeline is also subject to philosophical debate; however, the fact remains that we were survivalists for most of our existence. Whether it was a saber-toothed tiger, drought, famine, our species endured a rite of passage. Survival was for the fittest. As a result of our lack of substantial defense, we made it to this point mainly due to our innate adaptive capabilities.

One of our adaptations was the development of the cerebral cortex, the newest addition to the brain, known for its ability to think in complexity. As with most things in life, it is both a blessing and a curse. The need for survival prompted our ancestors to use this complex thinking machine to solve the problems that life in the wild presented. Just imagine being on the show ‘Survivor’ your entire life. It was complex thinking that advanced our species to the top of the “food chain.”

During that time, there was no space for self-referential thinking. Primarily there was the instinct for survival and the free will to live. Managing resources for one’s clan was the goal of every day. Protecting our tribe was a common unified action. Fast forward to today: survival is no longer viewed in the same way. We have such abundance in developed nations. Emerging economies throughout the world are also entering this abundant space. So what of complex thinking in the world?

Self-referential thinking has replaced survival thinking. Labels have created shells that represent us to others. We are more connected than ever through technology, yet most disconnected from one another. Nearly two years ago, I experienced the lowest period of my life. This season was marked by isolation, starting during the global pandemic we all experienced. It was during this time that I was developing QHP. I became consumed with the project, working tirelessly. The culmination was a diagnosis of acute stress syndrome, also known as burnout syndrome.

Hopeless and helpless at the bottom of the barrel, I slowly worked my way out of survival thinking. External isolation had created a sense of internal isolation. Wait…or was it the other way around? Major depressive disorder is diagnosed when an individual has a persistently low or depressed mood, anhedonia or decreased interest in pleasurable activities, feelings of guilt or worthlessness, lack of energy, poor concentration, appetite changes, psychomotor retardation or agitation, sleep disturbances, or suicidal thoughts.

I was experiencing all of these. Perhaps my external isolation was a projection of my inner isolation. My self-referential complex thinking had me believing a story it had created about my life, a story that was untrue. The stress endured during those difficult times had produced a side of me that lies within all of us if the conditions align themselves. Fortunately, my story did not end then. Through complex thinking and the help of trained professionals, my personal holistic health began to improve.

It was when I chose to collide with the story I had been telling myself that I was able to find the strength to move away from the past to welcome what was to be. Thanks to the amazing adaptation skill we all possess known as neuroplasticity. Complex thinking allowed me to shift from survival thinking to a mindset of abundance ripe with opportunities. From that point on it was time for action. The greatest beauty of this path? The emergence of amazing relationships.   Collectively, we are sharing energy while learning to vibrate harmoniously together. 

The power that lies within us is immense. It can drag us down into the depths of despair, but it can also lift us to the heights of our potential. The key is to harness this power, to recognize the stories we tell ourselves, and to choose actions that align with our true values and aspirations. What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us. Our inner strength, resilience, and capacity for growth are what define our journey and our ultimate success.

How powerful are thoughts? For starters, everything—and I mean everything—begins with a thought. Whether it's deciding to grab a piece of fruit, reaching for a glass of water, picking up a jump rope, conceiving a new invention, or strategizing for a job promotion, it all starts in the mind. Thoughts are the seeds from which actions grow, and they shape our reality in profound ways. This concept is not just philosophical; it has a basis in neuroscience, where brain mapping reveals how our thoughts and behaviors are rooted in specific brain networks.

Brain mapping, performed using technology such as functional MRI, has shown that different thoughts and activities activate specific networks in the brain. These networks are not static; they change and grow based on our thoughts and actions, a phenomenon known as neuroplasticity. For instance, the more you engage in a particular activity, the more developed the associated brain regions become. This is why experts in various fields, from musicians to athletes, often show enhanced development in specific areas of their brains compared to non-experts. Thoughts that lead to repeated actions can physically alter brain structure, strengthening the neural pathways involved.

Just as physical skills can be honed, so can our emotional responses. Practicing any emotion, be it anger, joy, contentment, or impatience, can strengthen the corresponding neural pathways. For example, if a person frequently responds to situations with anger, the neural circuits involved in anger responses become more dominant. This can make it easier for anger to be triggered in the future, as the brain becomes more efficient at activating these pathways.

Take anger, for instance. When someone habitually reacts with anger, the amygdala, which is involved in the processing of emotions, especially fear and aggression, becomes more reactive. The prefrontal cortex, responsible for regulating these emotions, may become less effective in managing anger responses. Over time, this can lead to a person becoming more prone to anger, as their brain becomes wired to react aggressively to stressors. This cycle shows the powerful impact of practiced thoughts on emotional regulation.

On the other hand, practicing joy and positive emotions can have equally profound effects. When we focus on positive thoughts and experiences, the brain's reward system, including structures like the nucleus accumbens and the ventral tegmental area, becomes more active. This not only makes us feel good but also encourages us to seek out and recognize more positive experiences in the future. Consistently engaging in activities that bring joy can strengthen these pathways, making it easier to feel happiness and contentment.

Contentment, often linked with mindfulness practices, involves the brain regions associated with attention and sensory awareness, such as the insula and the anterior cingulate cortex. Regular mindfulness practice can enhance the function and connectivity of these areas, leading to a greater ability to maintain a state of calm and contentment. This demonstrates how deliberately focusing on thoughts of peace and satisfaction can reshape our brain to sustain these states more readily.

Conversely, practicing impatience can reinforce stress-related neural circuits. The more often we respond to situations with impatience, the more likely our brain is to default to these stress responses. This involves the hypothalamus, which controls the stress response, and the adrenal glands, which release stress hormones like cortisol. Over time, habitual impatience can lead to chronic stress, highlighting the importance of managing our thoughts and reactions.

In summary, the power of thoughts is immense. They shape not only our actions but also our brain's structure and function. By understanding and harnessing this power, we can consciously practice positive emotions and thoughts, leading to healthier, more fulfilling lives. Whether through mindfulness, positive reinforcement, or deliberate practice of desired emotional states, we have the ability to train our brains and shape our realities. This underscores the profound impact that intentional, mindful thinking can have on our mental and physical well-being.