March is finally here and signs of spring are tentatively beginning to emerge. With the days getting a little longer and lighter, change is literally and figuratively in the air, which provides an opportunity to shed a layer of clothes and lumber out of our caves.
One of the few absolute truths in life, along with death, taxes and always choosing the slower line at the grocery store, is that change is the only constant.
Yet, without self-awareness, we stubbornly resist change and repeat negative patterns of thoughts and actions that only serve to construct barriers to mental wellness.
Why do we have impulses to resist change even in the face of evidence that our current actions are self-destructive? How can we start on a path toward embracing positive change in our lives?
Our brains receive a lot of high praise for many amazing and complex things, so it is only fair they should endure a little bad press occasionally.
Our habits and routines are stored in the basal ganglia, an energy efficient part of the brain’s older, limbic structure. When we repeat old thoughts or habits we strengthen pathways to this area.
Similar to walking on a well-worn forest trail, it takes much less energy for the brain to access repeated habits. The newer, high-energy consuming prefrontal cortex is where the complex, new information is processed and requires more effort to engage.
Altering habits requires a focus that can be uncomfortable and even physiologically painful, so, especially when anxious or tired, we return to the easy and familiar path.
When I’m stressed or depressed, I sense I’m not bettering my situation by sitting on the couch, eating the family-size bag of chips and watching a rerun show on television, but it feels so effortless and good. Thanks for nothing, basal ganglia.
The difficulty in embracing and executing change is increased exponentially when a person suffers from conditions such as depression, severe anxiety or other mental or psychiatric disorders. Stabilizing a sufferer with medications is often the first step toward positive change in one’s daily life.
As a person who has felt the benefits of pharmacologic intervention, I think in some cases medication is an effort to level the playing field somewhat.
The process of neuroplasticity is proof of the awesomeness of our brains, once again. Thousands of times a day our brain cells are making new connections and giving us the potential for restructuring perceptions and creating the neurological conditions for change.
As a species, adapting to change is who we are at a cellular level, evolving and adapting to changes in environment over millions of years. The potential for change is in our blood.
Creating new, better habits and good change can start with mindful and purposeful acts as simple as walking instead of driving a short distance.
When we try to change habits with a friend or in a group, we can feel a sense of reward and connection. This feeling serves to reinforce our positive, new choices.
As springtime surrounds us with vibrant colours and blossoming life we can, as individuals, embrace the potential for change and reach for newness and growth, as well.
Robert Skender is a Powell River freelance writer and health commentator.
