Exploring visual imagery inhibits the verbal side of our brain that causes worry and anxiety
Summary
- Exploring visual imagery inhibits the verbal side of our brain that causes worry and anxiety
Details
- The left brain handles language, the right handles imagery (sometimes switched in left handed people)
- When one side is active, it quiets the other side. So if we focus on imagery it can reduce verbal activity
- This could be by imagining a visual situation like a garden or beautiful place
Reflections
- This maybe explains why walking in nature is calming
References
Quotes
Much of our stress is driven by internal verbal processes. These worry about the future, rehash the past, and mutter about the present. In most people, the neural basis for language is on the left side of the brain while the right side handles imagery and other forms of holistic processing. (This is reversed for many left-handed people.) The two sides inhibit each other, so if one becomes more active, that quiets the other. Consequently, focusing on imagery will reduce verbal activity—and help you relax.
There are many ways to explore imagery. You could recall a beautiful place you have visited, and walk through it again in your mind. Imagine being in a relaxing situation, such as sitting by a lake or walking down a country road. Think back on a setting you felt good in, such as your grandparents’ home, and recall as many details about it as possible. You could visualize fluffy white clouds—and soaring happily through them like a bird.
Related
- A growing body of research suggests that as little as 5 percent of our behaviors are consciously self-directed. We are creatures of habit and as much as 95 percent of what we do occurs automatically or in reaction to a demand or an anxiety - Jim Loehr
- Chronic stress has a negative impact on our brains
- Writing our thoughts can bring stress-relief and lead to personal growth
- Mindful breathing helps control stress and put your mind in optimal state for performance