#237 Neurogenesis, Neuroplasticity, Epigenetics, Empowerment, Liberation

     Through "state-of-the-art brain scanning and gene mapping technologies. ... we've discovered that brains grow (continuously, throughout life). New neurons form in a process called neurogenesis. Neurons change their growth and firing patterns with new experiences in an adaptive process called neuroplasticity. We have further learned through the study of epigenetics that genes are not destiny and that life experiences modify whether and how genes express themselves.
     The capacities for people to transform their sensory awareness and physiological and emotional states, as well as their reactions to their life experiences, is currently being explored in entirely new ways that are both exciting and liberating. The new biological sciences encourage us to revise some of our most enduring beliefs about the nature of the relationship between brain and mind, and even mind and body. It is especially compelling to go from merely suspecting to actually proving that life experience changes brains in measurable ways. Instead of being victims of an unalterable genetic destiny or living out some unconscious mental script we must inevitably and blindly adhere to, we have a chance to reclaim greater control over our lives than most of us had dared to suppose.
     This is an empowering realization, a fresh call to be active in redefining who we are and what we are capable of as human beings."

       Yapko MD. Mindfulness and hypnosis. The power of suggestion to transform experience. WW Norton & Co, NY, 2011.

Photo: BonsaiZG   www.dpreview.com