The Holiday Preparations

• Joy
• neuroplasticity
• neuroscience

A little behind on getting my posting up this week…we all know how busy the holidays can be.

I spent the last week pondering the blog for this week, tossing around different ideas regarding key principles of neuroscience.  Then, I awoke this morning and it didn’t feel right.  Years of EBT training and I am finally beginning to trust myself and listen to that voice.  Therefore, I am going to write about what I need to write about today, not what I think I should write about.
 
I awoke this morning, early, my thinking brain racing.  I went immediately to the kitchen table with a sheet of paper to start making my “to do” list for the day.  Yes, I do have a type A personality.  My “to do” list was long as I have family arriving this week for the holidays.  As I stared at the list with over 20 items on it, I felt worried that there was not going to be enough time in the day to get everything done.
 
My thinking brain immediately replied, “No time to worry about not having enough time.  Get to work.”  And off I went.  After checking off a couple of items, I was in the shower getting ready to face the day and mentally putting the “to do” items in the order that would be most efficient for them to be accomplished.  Suddenly, a wave of warmth and serenity passed over me.  The limbic brain took over.
 
“Lindsey, is it reasonable to expect that you will be able to complete everything on your list?  And if you can’t, what is the harm?” I imagined Laurel sitting on my shoulder talking to me.  Then, a huge smile covered my face and I was absolutely filled with joy.  I realized it wasn’t Laurel’s voice anymore, it was my own. 
 
And, I reflected.  Last year, the holidays were stressful and chaotic.  Getting gifts mailed, writing holiday cards, cleaning the house for family, etc. took their toll.  I felt like I barely made it.  This year, gifts were mailed and holiday cards sent a week ago.  As for the clean house, who cares?  The season is about being together with family and friends enjoying fun, laughter and joy.  I feel so grateful to be able to experience the holidays wired at one.  Thank you EBT for being my personal brain trainer and giving me a new, strong, supportive voice.
 
I wanted to share this story because for me, it is only now after years of hard work, that I witness my changed brain in such profound ways.  Remember, your brain is changing even if it is difficult for you to see.  I hope that your holiday preparations are filled with sanctuary, vibrancy, intimacy, authenticity, integrity and spirituality.  And most of all, may the season be filled with joy.