According to neurosurgeon, journalist, and Emory University professor Dr. Sanjay Gupta, many aspects of our lives – from health and achievement levels to the development of new skills – can be influenced using the untapped power of our own minds.
He appeared recently on Deepak Chopra’s new podcast series, “Infinite Potential,” to discuss how we can rewire our own brains in order to achieve more success over time. He begins with what is possible when it comes to the human brain.
“Our brain is its own galaxy. We’ve only begun to understand what it is capable of. It’s quite possible that combinations of neurochemicals can stimulate what we think of as consciousness and thought awareness.”
He used himself and his own high-stress profession as an example, sharing how changing his thoughts helps modulate his heart rate, blood pressure, and even immune system.
The effects are possible due to the neuroplasticity of our brains – we’re able to grow new neurons (neurogenesis) and new connects between neurons (synaptogenesis) by practicing meditation, self-reflection, mindfulness, asking meaningful questions, and visualization.
It’s that last bit that scientists believe could really play a role in future successes (if you can find a way to do it for at least 5 minutes every day) because the human brain can’t entirely distinguish between a memory and a vision of the future.
If you want to give it a try, you’ll need to commit to 5-10 minutes a day for at least 6 weeks.
Before you get started you’ll want to ask yourself these 5 questions:
- What is my unique talent?
- Who will benefit?
- What is my passion?
- What is my higher calling?
- What are my goals?
The answers will help you focus on what you want to accomplish, and the resulting visualization will cement it in your brain as something bound to happen (because it believes it’s happened before). If you have a specific goal in mind, write it down and read it every morning to keep it intentionally in your daily thoughts.
In order to rewire your brain for the long term, you must practice visualization for at least six weeks for at least five to 10 minutes a day.
It’s worth a try because, truly, no one really knows how far the brain could take us if we just knew how best to use it.