Unlocking Your Brain’s Filter: The Reticular Activating System (RAS)
Imagine your brain as a vibrant, bustling city – constantly flooded with information: sights, sounds, smells, thoughts, feelings.
So how do you make sense of it all?
Meet your RAS – the Reticular Activating System – a bundle of nerves at the base of your brainstem that acts like your personal gatekeeper. It decides what gets your attention… and what doesn’t.
Your brain is a master of efficiency, a calorie counter, always seeking ways to conserve energy.
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What Does the RAS Do?
The RAS filters out the “noise” so you can focus on what matters most to you.
Ever notice how you suddenly see your new car everywhere? Or hear a new word over and over once you’ve learned it? That’s not a coincidence – it’s your RAS doing its job.
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Beliefs and the RAS
Here’s where it gets even more exciting: Your beliefs shape what your RAS lets through.
If you believe you’re not good at something, your RAS will highlight experiences that reinforce this belief. Conversely, positive beliefs will bring affirming experiences to the forefront.
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Habits and Neuroplasticity
The RAS also plays a role in forming habits. You can train your RAS to favour these patterns, through repetition, a process known as neuroplasticity. This training process operates whether you repeat this pattern consciously, subconsciously or consciously.
You Become What You Repeatedly Focus On.
This includes your:
- Thoughts
- Feelings
- Facial expressions
- Posture
- Voice tone
- Body language
- Behaviours
Your brain automates as much as it can to conserve energy.
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Harnessing the Power of the RAS
To leverage your RAS:
- Set Clear Intentions: Define what you want to focus on; what you want more of in your life.
- Positive Affirmations: Speak with confidence, using words that power up your goals and abilities.
- Pause & Check In. Notice when you’re on ‘non-serving’ autopilot – and gently redirect.
- Mindfulness Moments & Practices: Breathe, stretch, move, and reflect; meditate to enhance awareness.
- Choose the Expansive Option. In any situation, ask: Which choice gives me the most options, the greatest range of possibilities?
You’re not just choosing your focus,
You’re designing your life.
Enjoy training your inner secret weapon, your most powerful ally, your RAS!
With love,
x Judy
