As we head into fall it is with a renewed sense of optimism. Life is returning to some of the daily routines that we are used to. Yes! The kids are going back to school. What exactly might that look like? Well, I’d say it remains to be seen. This is where there is a usefulness in expecting or embracing the unexpected. No one likes the unknown. If we are honest with ourselves though, most of life is unknown. Until it happens.
Everyone is familiar with the phenomenon when you buy a new car, maybe a great new Honda Civic in black, and while you’d never really noticed black 2019 Honda Civics before all of a sudden you see them everywhere! Everybody is driving your new car!
This happens because of the way our brains sort reality and pay attention to what we expect. There is too much data coming into your brain’s awareness in each moment for you to notice all of it. So our brain consults with the spine and says “Ok, you are expecting black 2019 Honda Civics, sports edition” here you go. Now it’s all you see.
The logical follow up to this example is to choose what you expect. What would you like your brain to sort for? What do you want to see more of? This is what you will notice around you. If you choose optimism, then you will perceive events more optimistically. And the opposite is also true. If you choose pessimism, this is what your brain and spine will sort for you. It is your choice. You get to make it up.
Wait! Dr. Sara you mentioned the brain and spinal cord do this sorting function! Yes! This means that the better your spine is operating, the better your system will be at sorting and perceiving what you choose to expect. More spinal flexibility equals a clearer perception of the world around you based on your chosen expectations. Which equals more happiness.