This article is about the profound significance of self-talk and how what we say directly impacts our lives. I want to begin by mentioning the book, “What to Say When You Talk to Yourself,” written by Dr. Shad Helstetter. The book was published in 1986 and was considered groundbreaking at the time. However, over the years, the very important messages in the book were replaced by thoughts and ideas considered more significant.
Through working with my spirit guide, Jane Roberts, channel for the Seth Material, I have learned the true impact of our thoughts. Most often, we take our own thinking for granted. Unless we take it upon ourselves to examine our thinking, we tend to think it is how it is. When we understand that our thoughts create our reality and can either free or limit us, we make significant headway in creating the life we want. With neuroplasticity, I have become very aware of the importance of examining our own thinking.
Not only does our own thinking free or limit us, but it also affects our brain chemistry. There are several chemicals at work here. To begin, positive self-talk activates brain regions like the ventrolateral prefrontal cortex, which helps you process emotions. It releases serotonin and dopamine. This is often why people who are depressed are given medication to raise serotonin levels in the brain. This medication is needed by those who are deeply depressed. It is also important to understand the changes that can be made through self-talk.
Self-talk is directly related to the brain’s release of these chemicals. Conversely, negative self-talk activates the brain’s stress response. The perception of threat triggers the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, resulting in the release of cortisol and adrenaline into the bloodstream. These chemicals comfort the individual and dull the mind. What happens is that when individuals are caught in a negative thinking “loop,” the brain becomes addicted to these chemicals, which stems from the brain’s need to comfort itself.
When you become aware that these chemicals are at play and that your own thinking affects your brain, it can become an incentive to change your thinking. Negative overthinking can be exhausting, and over time, these chemicals can affect other areas of the body.
So what is the solution? First of all, it is awareness of what is happening and the knowledge that you can take control of what you think. Many achieve success through cognitive behavioural therapy. Your thoughts do not control you; you control your thoughts. This knowledge is freedom.
It is also my suggestion that you listen to audio recordings by people such as Dr. Wayne Dyer. There are professional recordings on YouTube on neuroplasticity. They are a great starting point for you. I also highly recommend the Seth Material and the book, “The Nature of Personal Reality,” available on Amazon.
You create your reality, one thought at a time.
To quote Dr. Wayne Dyer, “When you change your thoughts, you change your life.” He wrote a book by this title, and it is wonderful to read.
Peace
Lynda Flagler – Physical Medium