What is the Harada  Method and How to Use it for Achieving Your Goals.

What is the Harada Method and How to Use it for Achieving Your Goals.

In this video we are going to look at a Japanese goal achieving system that generated a $700 million contract and one of the greatest baseball players of all time.

The way he went about achieving this spectacular accomplishment was by using the Harada Method for personal growth and development.
Shohei Ohtani as a remarkable Japanese baseball player for the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim who utilized the Harada Method to achieve his goals.  His ambition to become Japan's premier baseball prospect.

What is The Harada Method?

It is a personal-growth technique created by Takashi Harada, focusing on self-improvement in eight key areas.
Ohtani applied this method by identifying specific ways to enhance his skills and character.

Impact of the Harada Method on Ohtani

Shohei Ohtani's Success Story

Ohtani's rise to prominence in baseball, showcasing his achievements and skills on the field.
His success directly to the principles of the Harada Method and how it shaped his mindset and performance.
The Harada Method contributed to Shohei Ohtani's success story.
- Encourage viewers to reflect on their own goals and consider applying similar principles of self-improvement in their lives.

The designated hitter and pitcher was Rookie of the Year in 2018, followed by being selected as unanimous MVP of the American League last year. His rise to stardom can be attributed to his organized approach to the sport and the coaching he was exposed to along the way.

Ohtani used the Harada Method to achieve baseball superstardom. The Harada Method is a personal-growth system created by a former middle school teacher, Takashi Harada. As a junior high school track and field coach at the worst school in Osaka, Japan, Harada was determined to create an environment of success for his students and athletes. After many years of studying the world’s best coaches, he created a new methodology to uplift his students. The school went from the lowest rated to the highest rated out of 380 schools. His track team won 13 gold medals, achieving the number one ranking in Japan.

The matrix below, termed a 64 Chart, demonstrates the organization of Ohtani’s development. At the center is the ultimate goal of being the top draft pick in the MLB draft. The ultimate goal is surrounded by eight essential keys for accomplishing the ultimate goal. Then, these eight keys are sub-divided into eight areas of focus for his personal development.

Ohtani’s 64 Chart

In essence, at the core of the Harada Method of personal growth is a checklist of behavio

Checklist 

After his initial one, Ohtani has filled out about 15 more “64 Charts” to reflect his updated goals.

Long Term Goal Form

At the age of 28, Shohei Ohtani signed a 10 year / $700,000,000 contract with the Los Angeles Dodgers.

What system did he use to achieve such huge goals?

He used the Harada method which is very successful and popular in Japan. How did this come about?

Meet Takashi Harada.

He was a high school track & field coach at the worst school in Osaka, Japan. After years studying the world's best coaches, he created his own system. His school went from being dead last to the #1 school in Japan producing 13 gold medal winners during his span.

Shohei Ohtani studied under Mr. Suzuki who was a student of Harada's.

Now Here is Shohei Otani's list of goals as well as his map of how to get there.

What he has accomplished seems surreal & almost magical but it was planned all along.

The Harada Method, developed by Takashi Harada, is a system focused on fostering self-reliance and personal development. This method emphasizes individuals becoming highly skilled in a particular discipline, enabling them to make responsible decisions for themselves and the organizations they work for. The core principle of the Harada Method is to empower individuals to envision their future success through their own efforts, thereby instilling excitement and motivation for work.

The Harada Method has been successfully applied in various contexts, including sports coaching and business management. It has been recognized as an effective tool for developing highly skilled workers essential for the future of industries. By instilling self-reliance and providing individuals with the tools to achieve their goals, the Harada Method aims to drive personal and professional success.

The method has been widely adopted in Japan and is now being introduced to English-speaking businesses worldwide through certification programs and coaching services.

Overall, the Harada Method offers a structured approach to personal growth and goal achievement by empowering individuals to take ownership of their lives, develop essential skills, and strive for excellence in both personal and professional endeavors.

What are the Key Principles of the Harada Method?

The key principles of the Harada Method, a management and self-development approach, include:

1. Self-Management: Individuals are encouraged to take responsibility for their own work and personal development. They set their own goals and are accountable for achieving them.
2. Visualizing Goals: People are taught to visualize their goals clearly, making them more tangible and achievable. Visualization is a key aspect of the method, helping individuals to stay focused on their objectives.
3. Breaking Down Goals: Goals are broken down into smaller, manageable tasks to facilitate progress incrementally.
4. Daily Practice: Emphasizes the importance of daily routines and habits that contribute to the achievement of long-term goals.
5. Measuring Progress: Progress is measured and tracked regularly to provide feedback and guide adjustments in efforts.
6. Continuous Improvement: Promotes the idea of continuous improvement (kaizen), encouraging individuals to evaluate their performance constantly and seek ways to enhance their processes and achieve success.

These principles aim to help individuals to become self-reliant, set clear goals aligned with personal and organizational success, and foster a culture of accountability, productivity, and continuous improvement within organizations.

How to Start the Harada Method for Yourself Today.

Step 1:  Answer questions based on self reliance. It's a gauge to see how self reliant you are and gives you a baseline with which to work with. Once you find your baseline your goal is to improve upon them. The questions can be accessed at the images below:

and here's the others...

Now that you've got those questions answered you can use those as a benchmark for your progress.

Step 2:  Create your long term goal. This is your north star where your actions will be directed towards. It will organize your goals, purposes, self analysis, and action plan.

Step 3: Analyze your obstacles to success. Once you do that you then create countermeasures to solve those obstacles before they happen. This helps you plan tasks and routines to achieve the goal when the going gets rough.

Step 4. Create an Open 64 chart. The Open 64 is a framework for coming up with tasks and routines you need to accomplish the goal. You create 8 pillars that will serve as principles to your achievement. Around those fill in the tasks needed to achieve them.

As an example, here is Shohei Otani's Open 64 chart from high school. While his main goal was to get drafted 1st overall in the MLB he achieved something even greater than that. He got signed to a $30 million contract by the Anaheim Angels.

Step 5: Create a checklist of routines. It's not enough to set a goal. You must set a system of habits that will make the goal an inevitability. Have a list you check daily to ensure you're hitting the actions you need to make your vision a reality.

Step 6: Keep a daily performance journal. The journal is broken down into tasks to be completed & a reflection on your performance at the end of the day. The journal is meant as a way to build self awareness while keeping you in line with your target.

52 Propaganda Techniques

52 Propaganda Techniques

Agenda setting: it's the ability of the news to influence the importance placed on certain Topics by public opinion just by covering them frequently and prominently.  The propaganda technique of 'agenda setting' involves influencing the importance placed on topics in the public agenda through media coverage. This technique is a significant aspect of propaganda and is closely related to the agenda-setting theory in media studies. Here are some examples of the propaganda technique of 'agenda setting':

Highlighting Specific Events: By repeatedly highlighting certain events in the media, a sense of urgency and importance is created around those issues, influencing public perception and understanding.

Influencing Public Opinion: The media's selection and emphasis on particular events can shape how the audience perceives reality, even if it may not accurately reflect the true significance of those events[3].

Correlation with Public Opinion: Studies like those on the US Presidential Election of 1968 have shown a strong correlation between media coverage and public opinion, indicating how media agenda setting can impact societal views.

Selective Coverage: Media outlets selectively choose which events to cover prominently, often based on their ideologies and interests, which can sway public attention and understanding.

Creating Perceived Importance: The coverage of events like royal weddings or high-profile trials can captivate global audiences, even when the relevance to individuals is minimal, showcasing how media agenda setting can influence what is deemed important. Examples include all the coverage about  'Russia collusion' or 'Ivermectin horse medicine'

Appeal to fear: appeals to seek to build support by instilling anxiety and panic in the general population. People today still wear masks even though it's been proven by the Cochrane study that masks are ineffective.

Appeal to Prejudice: using Appeal to Prejudice prejudices to attach value or moral goodness to something.

Inevitable Victory: invites those not already on the bandwagon to join those already on the road to certain victory. Those already or at least partially on the bandwagon are reassured that staying aboard is their best course of action.

Join the crowd: this technique is used to convince the audience that a program is an expression of an irresistible mass movement and that it is in their best interest to join.  Wear a mask because everyone is doing it!

Beautiful People: usually used in advertising instead of politics it's the type of propaganda that deals with famous people or depicts attractive happy people this suggests that if people buy a product or follow a certain ideology they too will be happy or successful.

Big lie: behind this technique is that people will more easily fall victim to a big lie than to a small one it could happen because others are at a loss for where to even begin to refute it. "Climate Change"

 

Classical Conditioning: everyone responds to classical conditioning which is a behavioral procedure in which a natural stimulus is associated with a neutral stimulus enough times to create the same response by using just the neutral one.

Cognitive Dissonance: exploits people's desire to be consistent. For example if an analyst finds that a certain group of people hate his candidate for Senator but love actor A, he could use actor A's endorsement of their candidate to change people's minds.

Plain Folk: attempts to convince the audience that the propagandists positions reflect the common sense of the people it is designed to win the confidence of the Audience by communicating in the common Manner and style of the target audience a common example of this type of propaganda is a political figure usually running for a placement in a backyard or shop doing daily routine things. Trudeau swinging a hammer.

Cult of Personality: a cult of personality arises when an individual uses mass media to create an idealized and heroic public image often through unquestioning flattery and praise. The hero personality then Advocates the positions that the propagandist desires to promote. An example can be these doctored images of Trump to look like Rocky or Superman.

Demonizing the Enemy: making individuals from the opposing side appear to be subhuman worthless or immoral. "DemocRATS', unvaccinated that walk among us' -Gene Simmons

Demoralization: propaganda directed at an adversary to erode fighting spirit and encourage surrender or defection.:

Dictat: this technique hopes to simplify the decision- making process by using images and words to tell the audience exactly what action to take eliminating any other possible choice. propaganda technique that aims to simplify the decision-making process by using images and words to direct the target audience, a judge, or a jury, towards specific actions, eliminating any other possible choices. This technique is designed to guide individuals towards a predetermined conclusion or course of action by presenting information in a clear and directive manner. By employing dictat, propagandists seek to influence the audience's perceptions and decisions by limiting their options and emphasizing a particular viewpoint or agenda

Disinformation: the creation or deletion of information from public records for the purpose of making a false record of an event or the actions of a person or organization including faking photographs videos and sound recordings as well as printed documents. For example only looking at a small portion of climate change data that implies man-made deleterious effects instead of looking at 500,000 years of data and realizing this is the coldest time in centuries.

Divide and Rule: gaining and maintaining Power by breaking up larger concentrations of power into pieces that individually have less power than the one implementing the strategy. Blacks, Latinos, Republicans, Vaccinated vs Unvaccinated, Climate Change Denier, etc.

Euphemism: a generally innocuous word or expression used in place of one that may may be found offensive or suggest something unpleasant.

Euphoria: event that generates happiness to boost morale such as a military parade with marching bands and patriotic messages or making luxury items available.

Fear: Fear, Uncertainty and Doubt sometimes abbreviated as FUD is an attempt to influence public perception by disseminating negative and dubious false information designed to undermine The credibility of their beliefs it could be considered a manifestation of the appeal to fear technique.

Fire hose of falsehood: it's a propaganda technique in which a large number of messages are broadcast rapidly repetitively and continuously over multiple channels such as news and social media without regard for truth or consistency. Mass child graves in Canada....yet no bodies. Story is just fiction, but it continues to be retold.

Flag waving: to justify an action on the grounds that doing so will make one more patriotic or in some way benefit a group country or idea. LGBTQ, BLM, Ukranian Flag, Confederate...these all stir emotions depending on the colours and pattern on the fabric atop the pole.

Flak: efforts to discredit or cast out the prevailing assumptions.

Foot in the Door Technique: recruiters and salesmen for example the perpetrator walks up to the the victim and pins a flower or gives a small gift to the victim the victim says thanks and now they have incurred a psychological debt to the perpetrator the person eventually asks for a larger favor.

Framing: happens when in order to persuade a political audience of one side of an argument or another the facts are presented through a rhetorical frame that shifts the individual's perception. There are books written on the topic and my favourite is 'Mindlines' by L. Michael Hall.

Gish Gallop: bombarding a political opponent with obnoxiously complex questions in rapid fire during a debate to make the opponent appear to not know what they are talking about.

Glittering Generalities: emotionally appealing words that are applied to a product or idea but present no concrete argument or analysis.  It has the intent of associating the product or idea with an already established feel-good value in the mind of the audience they ask for approval without examination of the reason. e.g Pride, Inclusivity, Diversity. Such pretty sounding words

Guilt by Association: this technique is used to persuade a target audience to disapprove of an action or idea by suggesting that the idea is popular among disliked groups.

Half Truth: deceptive statement that includes some element of Truth. It comes in several forms the statement might be partly true the statement may be totally true but only part of the whole truth or it may utilize some deceptive element such as improper punctuation.

Information Information Overload: when an entity floods a certain topic with an enormous amount of information in order to increase the difficulty of understanding an issue and effectively making decisions it can have the same effect as secrecy. 'Flood the zone with shit' - Steve Bannon media advice

Intentional Vagueness: saying something so vague as to be meaningless or open to multiple interpretations in so doing the vagueness distracts attention from legitimate concerns or questions. 'Defund the Police'

Labeling: describing someone, something or a group with a derogatory word or phrase.

Latitudes of Acceptance: to make someone agree to something that he doesn't agree with a more extreme stance on the subject could be first taken so that when the actual moderate argument is presented it seems more acceptable another technique could consist in moderating one's own position to kind of match the target's beliefs and then over time slowly moving to the one that was previously held.

Limited Hangout: it happens when someone's veil of secrecy is shredded and he can no longer rely on a phony cover story to misinform the public.  He resorts to admitting sometimes even volunteering some of the truth while still managing to withhold the key and damaging facts in the case the public is usually so intrigued by the new information information that it never thinks to pursue the matter further.

Loaded Language: specific words and phrases with strong emotional implications that are used to influence the audience.

Love Bombing: is a technique used to recruit someone to a cult or ideology by bombarding him with affection in an attempt to isolate him from his prior beliefs values and social support.

Milieu control: controlling someone's communication style and environment through the use of social pressure and group language an example could be slang that enables group members to identify other members if the communication style becomes too peculiar it might result in isolation from the surrounding. e.g Pronouns!

Misinformation: involves intentionally spreading false or inaccurate information to deceive or manipulate an audience. Below a woman shares her experience of being misinformed by her gynecologist:

Society Obfuscation: it happens when a message is intentionally made difficult to understand. Twice vaccinated can go without a mask but unvaccinated need a mask.  If standing, mask, if not standing but indoors, mask. Operant conditioning: a learning process where behaviors are modified through the association of stimuli with reinforcement or punishment. Oversimplification: oversimplification favorable generalities are used to provide simple answers to complex problems. Jails are mostly black so it must be racism. Oversimplified. Paltering is the active use of selective truthful statements to mislead. Pensée Unique: unique enforce first reduction of discussion through the use of overly simplistic phrases or arguments. Black lives Matter! Quotes out of Context: selective editing of quotes that can change meanings. Trump 'Bloodbath'. Rationalization is a defense mechanism in which people justify difficult or unacceptable feelings with seemingly logical reasons and explanations. Reflexivity: The alchemical process employed by malicious individuals who seek to instigate major shifts in public opinion is known as reflexivity.  

Reflexivity essentially involves utilizing dialectical methodologies to transform that which is not into a possibility and eventually into reality. The effectiveness of reflexivity relies on the use of "fertile fallacies" to sustain its momentum. These fallacies consist of partially untrue statements that contain some elements of truth, or they can be accurate statements manipulated in a postmodern manner during dialectical warfare. For instance, the statement "Black Lives Matter" is undeniably true. However, it is unfortunately exploited by a Neo-Marxist, militant, authoritative, and "Postmodern Puritan" insurgency group that aims to overthrow our constitutional republic.

Reflexivity depends on an unending series of positive feedback loops that saturate the media landscape with uninterrupted flow of unquestioned information. The repetition of the same talking points is necessary to achieve the desired outcome of reflexivity. On the left side of integralism, the strategy of "repressive tolerance" coined by Herbert Marcuse is aggressively employed to silence those who oppose the mandated narrative demanding action and compliance from all. On the right side of integralism, the aggressive utilization of "No enemies to the right" from a Schmittian perspective ensures that anyone who questions the reflexive goals of the growing movement is silenced. Interestingly, when faced with challenges, the right-leaning movement appears to align more with Marcuse's approach rather than Schmitt's.

Similar to the Black Lives Matter movement, certain militant integralist groups are aiming to instigate a significant polarizing divide within our country. Much like how the Neo-Marxists manipulated the valid statement "Black Lives Matter" to further their malicious agenda, hardcore Roman Catholic Integralists and Protestant Neo-Integralists are also using the unquestionably true statement "Christ is King" or "Christ is Lord" to attract unsuspecting Christians into their reactionary movement, ultimately leading to the fragmentation of our nation. This coercive and authoritarian movement, if successful, will effectively bring an end to our constitutional republic. It will also fulfill the divisive and separatist objectives sought by the Marxists affiliated with Black Lives Matter.

Any resistance to the message must be promptly eliminated or ridiculed. A shield of "experts" or "leading voices" is established around the wheel of reflexivity. Anyone who opposes the momentum of the paradigm-shifting movement is immediately confronted, suppressed, and regarded as "outside of the tribe" and working against "winning" or even "the will of God."

(4) Well known wider-society examples of reflexivity:

  •  The Covid-19 lockdowns
  • The advancement and spread CRT after the death of George Floyd
  • The pseudo-panacea of vaccinations
  • The insistence of an all-in support of Ukraine and the hatred of Russia
  • The sustainability and de-growth movment.

Examples of reflexivity in Evangelical Christianity:
1. The infusion of critical social justice across nearly every ministry and parachurch ministry in evangelicalism
2. The introduction of coercive Neo-Integralism through "Christian Nationalism" In each situation, a newly-minted group of "experts" or "leaders" are recruited to authenticate the fertile fallacy within the reflexive movement.

To effectively create the momentum of reflexivity, the following methodology must be used: Problem -> Reaction -> Solution.

It begins with a "problem" that requires a response and an immediate solution. Problems such as -a "deadly" virus -"deadly" systemic racism -DQSH -classical liberalism Then, an aggressive push is made to "defeat the enemy" and separate from those that are dehumanized. We will be told to dismantle our nation, our constitution, and follow the new path of integralism (which just happens to be the same system being pushed by the WEF and the Vatican).

The strategically planned "reaction" (or Neo-reaction) follows the problem reactions such as:
-locking down the entire economy of the nation-shifting everyone to incorporate DEI
-Demanding the embrace of Christian Nationalism and a Christian Magistrate
-Calling for a national divorce or for Balkanization of the United States

Solutions will eventually be introduced further along in the reflexive process: -Everyone must be traced and tracked according to their health and vaccinated status -Everyone everywhere must participate in a economic system that is based upon ESG and distributism
-The nation much be refactored for subsidiarity and Balkanized according to ideological and theological beliefs.
-New Christian Nationalist leaders have now suggested that "sex-texting" (sexting) be made illegal -- which would of course require the constast surveillance of communications from an outside moral authority. Over a relatively short period of time, movements created by reflexivity produce a paradigm-shifting change within an affinity group, a nation or a civilization. https://www.nationalreview.com/2019/11/the-case-for-common-good-capitalism/

Anyone who openly opposes the movement, such as Christian Nationalism, will be subjected to a Neo-Maoist struggle session, characterized by the dissemination of false information and crude retorts from individuals who assert their loyalty to the principles of "Christ." (Below you will find responses directed at @conceptualJames. For over two decades, the Evangelical and Catholic faiths were manipulated like puppets as their devoted leaders introduced Marxism and postmodernism into the Church. Many years ago, I cautioned numerous leaders who had embraced Christian Nationalism that it would become the "reaction" to the issue of CRT. Despite warnings from either myself or @ConceptualJames about the usage of thought terminating cliches or other knee-jerk movements, a significant number of people still choose not to listen, even if they have disagreements with some of our views, and blindly follow the next “current thing.”

Repetition: refers to the repetition of a certain symbol or slogan so that the audience remembers it.
'If it doesn't fit, you must acquit.'

Scapegoating: assigning blame to an individual or group thus alleviating feelings of guilt from responsble parties or distracting attention from the need to fix the problem. e.g Border is open because Trump.

Semantic satiation technique: has the intent of lessening the impact of a certain word by repeating it and using it for trivial accusations. The word becomes more normalized and does not have the same negative impact. "Racist" is so overused now that it has lost its potentcy.

Smear campaign: is an intentional premeditated effort to undermine an individual's or group's reputation.

Testimonials are quotations in or out of context that are cited to support something. Books have book reviews, movies have movie reviews, and Amazon has product reviews. These are all just testimonials from people that have used the product/service. Reading these testimonials increases the chance of creating a transaction.

Third Party Technique: exploits the fact that people are more willing to accept an argument from a seemingly independent source of information than from someone with a stake in the outcome. e.g. Diet approved by 30 separate doctors or a diet approved by the American Diabetic association that only allows approved people to reply?

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Transfer technique: projecting positive or negative qualities of a person onto another one to make the second one more acceptable or to discredit him.

Unstated Assumption:  this technique is used when the propaganda concept would seem less credible if explicitly stated.  The concept is instead repeatedly assumed or implied.

Whataboutism: attempts to discredit an opponent's position by charging them with hypocrisy without directly refuting or disproving their argument.

Misuse of Statistics: reporting statistics in such a way as to unappropriate alter people's perceptions on a certain topic. e.g. Afer a car crash, the people who wear seatbelts are in the hospital longer than people that don't wear seatbelts. (People that don't wear seatbelts die)

How to Use Mental Training and Visualization For Neuroplasticity

Professor Andrew Huberman discusses the concept of mental training and visualization and how it leads to neuroplasticity, allowing individuals to change and adapt their brain and nervous system in response to experience. The speaker explains different forms of plasticity, including long-term potentiation and long-term depression, and the importance of the combination of real-world experiences and mental training and visualization for effective learning and performance improvement. Mental training and visualization protocols, which can capture both potentiation and depression, are discussed with a focus on the five key principles of effectiveness, including brief, simple, and repeated visualization between 50 to 75 times per session, and the importance of rest and combining visualization with real-world training.

Professor Andrew Huberman discusses the concept of mental training and visualization, explaining how it can improve our ability to learn in virtually all domains. He emphasizes the role of neuroplasticity in the brain and nervous system, which allows us to change and adapt in response to experience. By leveraging mental training and visualization, we can learn more quickly and consolidate our knowledge, retaining it for longer periods of time. Huberman explains which types of mental training and visualization work best, and how it can be applied to specific challenges, such as public speaking or sports performance, to build effective practices that are supported by neuroscience studies

mental training and visualization has been studied since the late 1800s. Mental training and visualization relies on a process called neuroplasticity, which can be broadly divided into two types: developmental plasticity, which lasts from birth to approximately age 25, and adult neuroplasticity, which exists throughout an individual's life. Adult neuroplasticity is the type of neuroplasticity on which mental training and visualization is based, as it involves actively using the brain to make changes in the brain's structure and function.

Adult plasticity, which is essentially self-directed adaptive plasticity that allows individuals to direct specific changes in terms of learning cognitive or motor function. Focused, dedicated attention to the thing that one is trying to learn is the first step in this process and is typically accompanied by agitation and frustration, which are normal and signal that things are headed towards learning. The second component required for self-directed adaptive plasticity is deep rest, particularly a good night's sleep on the night that follows the focused attention. Research shows that it is during sleep and other states of deep relaxation that the rewiring of neural connections and actual neuroplasticity take place. There are also second and third-night effects, which allow for neuroplastic events to occur during sleep on these nights following a bout of learning.

Plasticity that occur between neurons, including long-term potentiation and long-term depression. It is important to note that while the term "depression" has a negative connotation, long-term depression simply refers to a change in the connections between neurons and the excitability between neurons that can be excellent for learning things, particularly motor skills. The speaker uses the example of a child learning to eat with utensils to demonstrate the importance of long-term depression in eliminating incorrect movements to arrive at only the correct movements in a reflexive and repeated way. This process is critical for motor and cognitive skill learning and is every bit as important as long-term potentiation.

Mental training and visualization can be used to improve learning and performance. The brain's ability to sculpt down and remove connections, as well as to build up and strengthen them, is discussed as the basis of neuroplasticity. Mental training and visualization protocols, which can capture both the potentiation and depression aspects of neuroplasticity, serve as a complement to physical and cognitive training, allowing for enhanced learning speed and stability. The speaker conducts a simple experiment to show that most people are capable of visualizing a yellow cube and a red rose, and that during such visualization, the visual cortex and associated brain areas become very active, as shown in neuroimaging studies.

How perception works in the brain and how auditory and visual tasks can be imagined in the mind's eye or ear. They explain that most people are able to complete simple visualizations involving brief sequences in both senses, with a small percentage of the population having an inability to mentally visualize at all. They stress the importance of brief and simple visualizations if one wants to use mental training and visualization to engage in neuroplasticity and learning.

Processing speed and spatial relationship between imagined and real experiences. The experiments on visualization show that the neural level of mental visualization is identical to real-world events, although mental training and visualization are not as effective as the real world in terms of learning and improving performance. The ideal situation for learning is to combine real training in the physical world with mental training. The use of bistable images or impossible figures in experiments shows that mental training and visualization can be extremely effective, but it is always going to be most effective when combined with real-world training and experiences.

Real-word experiences and mental training and visualization is the most effective way to improve mental visualization abilities. While bi-stable images can be seen in real life, when someone tries to envision such images in their mind's eye, they cannot do it alone. However, tracing or drawing such an image physically and later visualizing it mentally allows individuals to switch back and forth between the faces and vases. Moreover, by mentally labeling and imagining these images, individuals can further stimulate their brains' neural machinery and fuse it with perception to achieve greater depth and flexibility in their visualization. Finally, by comparing the effectiveness of mental training and visualization to the cognitive load of recognizing faces, the speaker argues that the human brain is mainly a face recognition and expression machine.

Cognitive labels and decisions we make about the things we see in mental training and visualization is discussed. The cognitive labels assigned to mental training and visualization should be matched to real-world training and experiences, and identifying specific golf swings or aspects of it with an identity or name is crucial to the effectiveness of mental training for improving golf swings. While it is not possible to lie to oneself and learn better, mental training and visualization that accurately recapitulates real-world training is crucial for effective results. Therefore, mental training and visualization rely not only on the physical contours of things but also heavily depend on the cognitive labels and decisions we make about the things we see.

Aspects of mental visualization and how it can be applied towards mental training and visualization. He discusses experiments that show how mental training and visualization captures many of the same features of real-world behavior and perceptions, such as eye movements. The fifth principle of effective mental training and visualization is the equivalence of mental imagery versus real-world perception and behavior, which means that imagining things can be just as effective as actually doing or perceiving those things in the real world. The speaker suggests deliberately moving your eyes in the direction of the thing or things that you are trying to recapitulate in your visualization, which can greatly enhance the amount of neural machinery in the brain and body that you are able to recruit when performing real-world tasks.

Five principles of mental training and visualization established in numerous scientific research across different disciplines including education, medicine, music, psychology, and sports. The paper he refers to, "Best Practice for Motor Imagery: A Systematic Literature View on Motor Imagery Training Elements in Five Different Disciplines," establishes a number of important key takeaways including the importance of visualization being brief, simple, and repeated between 50 and 75 times per session with a rest period of about 15 seconds in between. Mental training and visualization are effective in increasing the accuracy or frequency of performing the task in the real world, but it is crucial to be able to complete the task in the real world in order for it to work.

Techniques that can improve cognitive and motor skills. Mental training can be helpful when an individual is unable to perform a physical task, such as in the case of injury or chronic pain, but it is not as effective as real-world training. Combining mental training with physical or real-world training can lead to greater results in skill acquisition and retention. The speaker emphasizes the importance of attention, focus, and deep rest in mental training and visualization protocols, and suggests repeating brief and consistent trials for improvements in real-world performance.

Key components needed for an effective mental training and visualization practice. The first cornerstone is performing epochs that last for 5 to 15 seconds, 50 to 75 times while repeating a cognitive or motor task three to five times per week. The second cornerstone is how often to perform the mental training sessions; it appears that performing the sessions anywhere from three to five times per week is most effective. Once the desired cognitive or motor performance has been consolidated, continuing with mental training sessions is not necessary, and it is not effective for acquiring new skills. Instead, mental training sessions can enhance the accuracy and speed of skills that are already demonstrated with proficiency in the real world. InsideTracker is one of the podcast sponsors, a personalized nutrition platform that supports the optimization of physical and mental performance.

Ratio of real-world training versus mental training for maximum effectiveness. Real-world training is found to be more effective than mental training, while mental training is still more effective than no training. However, mental training can still be helpful in situations where an individual is unable to perform the physical task, such as injury or chronic pain. Research suggests that combining real-world training with mental training can lead to even greater results in skill acquisition and retention. The speaker also notes that adding just 1 hour of mental training to 10 hours of real-world training can lead to significant improvements.

Benefits of combining mental training with physical or real-world training to improve learning and increase the speed, accuracy, and consistency of performance in cognitive and motor skills. Mental training can be added to real-world training to maximize the amount of physical training one can do. It requires focused attention when doing it in the real world or mental training, and it requires rest and sleep. The video suggests getting a good night's sleep on the day you do physical training or mental training. Studies indicate that it doesn't matter when you do mental training, but doing them both whenever you can and placing them at a time when you get good sleep is ideal. The video also stresses that sleep is vital for neuroplasticity after mental training and physical training.

Sex and age-related differences in ability to mentally visualize and train specific skills. While some initial studies identified sex differences, subsequent quality, peer-reviewed studies point to no significant differences between males and females in using mental visualization to improve cognitive or motor skills. Although age-dependent differences were found suggesting a combination of physical and mental training for individuals aged 65 or older, the vast majority of people would benefit more from physical training. The speaker also discusses first person versus third person mental visualization and the effectiveness of first-person mental training, which is significantly more effective than third-person visualization. For individuals attempting to learn cognitive skills, closing your eyes and performing the task is shown to be most effective.

Techniques for improving cognitive skills. He explains the difference between first-person and third-person perspectives and how studies have shown that watching videos of oneself from a first-person perspective can be very effective. However, if one is going to use third-person mental training and visualization, they should ideally look at themselves either on video or listen to themselves in audio and/or video. The principle of effective mental training and visualization is that whatever skill one is trying to build or consolidate needs to be brief and repeated. Huberman also presents an interesting study on how mental practice can modulate functional connectivity between the cerebellum and the primary motor cortex.

Improve on a specific motor sequence task through either intentional cue or mental practice. The study found that mental practice, consisting of 50 imagined trials, led to an increase in speed and accuracy of physical performance in the real world. The neural mechanisms behind this improvement involve the cerebellum, an area at the back of the brain that communicates with the primary motor cortex and can reduce inhibition through its outputs, allowing for more net excitation and thus more accurate and faster movements. The study also showed that the improvement in performance was not related to the activation of the motor pathways.

Go" and "no-go" aspects of motor learning and how mental training and visualization can improve both. While previous studies have primarily focused on enhancing "go" tasks like finger-tapping, there have been a few studies on the "no-go" aspect of motor learning, which is equally important in real-life tasks like golf or playing an instrument. One such task, called the stop signal task, was developed and popularized by Gordon Logan and William Cowan. Mental training and visualization have been shown to improve both aspects of motor learning, and these neural circuits are being increasingly studied to understand their underlying mechanisms.

Stop signal task is described as a reaction time test with a no-go aspect of motor execution. The task involves pressing a key corresponding to the direction of the arrow presented on the screen while inhibiting the urge to press a key when a red stop signal appears. The delay between the presentation of the arrow and the stop signal affects the ability to withhold the key-pressing behavior. In the paper, "motor imagery combined with physical training improved response inhibition in the stop signal task." It was found that physical training was superior to mental training in improving performance on the task.

Combination of mental training and physical training for improved learning. The study shows that if the thing you're trying to learn involves withholding inappropriate behavior, then combining mental training and physical training is especially important for better performance. The study involved 30 trials of the task over five days, and the improvements were significant, showing a near doubling of reduction in reaction time for the combination of mental and physical training compared to training alone. This study is important as it highlights the significance of action withholding in motor learning and training, captured nicely in the stop signal task. Also mentioned are studies that explore why certain individuals are better or worse at motor training and visualization, such as those with affantasia, a condition that impairs the generation of mental imagery.

Aphantasia, the inability to generate mental imagery, and how it varies in severity from complete absence to poor ability. He also explains that contrary to popular belief, people with aphantasia are not necessarily incapable of synesthesia, which is when people have perceptual blending that is not induced by drugs. A study found that aphantasia was associated with weak visual imagery and features associated with the autism spectrum. However, it is unclear whether aphantasia causes these features or vice versa, and not all people on the autism spectrum have aphantasia.

Mental training, visualization, cognitive and emotional perception, and behavior. He also highlights the importance of social cognition as a learned behavior and pattern of cognitive and motor patterns. Dr. Huberman emphasizes the need to incorporate physical training along with mental training and visualization when learning new skills. However, if physical training is not feasible due to injury or other reasons, mental training can be a reasonable substitute. He concludes by stating that constantly practicing mental imagery helps to improve the ability to engage in plasticity, and it is essential to create multiple parallels between real-world training and mental training.

Components that must be included in mental training and visualization protocols, such as attention, focus, sleep and deep rest, and effective mental training and visualization tools. Mental training and visualization does not have to be performed in a very precise way or done perfectly each time, but repeating it repeatedly and in a restricted way that makes it easier to perform those trials over and over and over again and with a high degree of accuracy can lead to improvements in real-world performance. The speaker encourages exploring motor training and visualization, as all studies show that some degree of improvement is observed when people use motor training and visualization on a consistent basis, even just the three to five times per week with simple repeats over and over.

The Danger of Bill C-63, aka Online Harms Act in Canada

Enforcing Bill C-63, also known as the Online Harms Act in Canada, could have implications for free speech and society. The Act aims to expand hate speech laws and regulate harmful content online, potentially impacting freedom of expression. If enforced, the Act would introduce new regulations for social media platforms, requiring them to monitor and remove harmful content, which includes categories like incitement to violence and content that foments hatred[2][3][4].

The Act would establish a Digital Safety Commission of Canada to oversee compliance with the new regulations, with significant powers to enforce penalties on non-compliant operators. Operators of social media services would face obligations to detect harmful content, develop digital safety plans, and comply with removal requirements. Failure to comply could lead to substantial monetary penalties of up to 6% of global revenue or $10 million[2][3].

While the Act aims to mitigate online harms and protect individuals, concerns have been raised about its potential impact on free speech. The definition of harmful content, especially regarding content that foments hatred, raises questions about the balance between regulating harmful content and safeguarding freedom of expression online. The Act's broad scope and regulatory powers could pose challenges in application and potentially restrict certain forms of online expression[2][3].

Enforcing Bill C-63 in its current form could lead to a more regulated online environment in Canada, potentially impacting free speech by imposing strict rules on social media platforms to monitor and remove harmful content. The Act's implementation will require careful consideration to ensure a balance between protecting individuals from online harms and upholding freedom of expression.

Citations:
[1] https://www.nortonrosefulbright.com/en-ca/knowledge/publications/307d02f8/bill-c-63-the-online-harms-act
[2] https://www.torys.com/our-latest-thinking/publications/2024/02/online-harms-act-bill-c-63
[3] https://www.blakes.com/insights/canada-bill-c63-online-harms-act-targets-harmful-content-on-social-media
[4] https://www.ctvnews.ca/politics/five-things-to-know-about-canada-s-proposed-law-to-guard-against-online-harms-1.6785283
[5] https://techpolicy.press/an-overview-of-canadas-online-harms-act

Dr Milton Erickson Stories from his Protege Bill O’Hanlon

Dr Milton Erickson Stories from his Protege Bill O’Hanlon

If you like Dr Milton Erickson,you'll probably enjoy hearing some stories from his protege, Bill O'Hanlon.

Learn more about Milton Erickson and other communication experts

https://reprogrammingmind.com/fritz-perls-dr-milton-erickson-and-virginia-satir-the-models-of-nlp-communication/

Fritz Perls, Dr. Milton Erickson and Virginia Satir – The Models of NLP Communication

Fritz Perls, Dr. Milton Erickson and Virginia Satir – The Models of NLP Communication

The core question NLP seeked to answer was 'How can Fritz Perl's language patterns create such seeming
'magic' in people's lives?" That was the original question. Later they asked that same question about Satir and then Erickson. Out of that they created the NLP Communication Model. So at the beginning, the focus was
simply on how Perls, Satir, and Erickson thought, their thinking patterns.

Fritz Perls: A Pioneer in Psychotherapy

Fritz Perls, born Friedrich Salomon Perls in 1893 in Berlin, was a prominent German psychiatrist, psychoanalyst, and psychotherapist known for his significant contributions to the field of psychology. He is best recognized for coining the term "Gestalt therapy" along with his wife, Laura Perls, in the 1940s and 1950s.

Perls' life was marked by a diverse range of experiences that influenced his work. He grew up in Berlin's bohemian scene, participated in artistic movements like Expressionism and Dadaism, and faced challenges such as deployment to the front line during World War I, antisemitism, and the trauma of war. Despite being expected to pursue law like his uncle, he chose to study medicine and later specialized in neuropsychiatry.

In the realm of psychoanalysis, Perls was greatly influenced by Wilhelm Reich's character analysis and became Reich's supervising senior analyst in Berlin[1]. His marriage to Laura Perls in 1930 marked a significant partnership that led to the development of Gestalt therapy. The couple fled Nazi Germany in 1933 due to their Jewish descent and anti-fascist activities, eventually settling in South Africa before moving to New York City in 1946.

Perls' approach to therapy emphasized enhanced awareness of sensation, perception, emotions, and behavior in the present moment. Central to Gestalt therapy is the focus on the unity of all present feelings and behaviors and the importance of contact between the self, its environment, and others[3]. His work extended beyond traditional psychoanalysis, drawing from Gestalt psychology principles while emphasizing existential theories in understanding human behavior.

Later in his life, Perls became associated with the Esalen Institute in California where he conducted workshops and continued to refine Gestalt therapy. He eventually moved to Vancouver Island, Canada, where he established a training community for therapists before passing away in Chicago in 1970.

Fritz Perls' legacy endures through his pioneering work in Gestalt therapy, which continues to influence modern psychotherapy practices. His emphasis on awareness, relationship dynamics, and existential perspectives has left a lasting impact on the field of psychology.

Fritz Perls' Notable Works

Fritz Perls, a renowned psychiatrist and psychotherapist, is best known for his significant contributions to the field of psychology, particularly through his pioneering work in Gestalt therapy. Some of his most famous works include:

1. "Ego, Hunger, and Aggression" - Published in 1942 and re-published in 1947, this book was co-written by Fritz Perls during his time in South Africa. It delves into essential aspects of human behavior and psychology, with contributions from his wife Laura Perls.

2. "Gestalt Therapy: Excitement and Growth in the Human Personality" - Co-authored by Fritz Perls, Paul Goodman, and Ralph Hefferline, this seminal work was published in 1951. It serves as a foundational text for Gestalt therapy, emphasizing awareness, unity of feelings and behaviors, and the importance of contact between the self and its environment.

These works by Fritz Perls have significantly influenced the development of Gestalt therapy and continue to shape modern psychotherapy practices with their focus on present-moment awareness, relationship dynamics, and holistic approaches to human behavior.

Virginia Satir: Pioneer of Family Therapy

Virginia Satir (1916-1988) was an American author, clinical social worker, and psychotherapist renowned for her groundbreaking work in family therapy. She is often referred to as the "Mother of Family Therapy" due to her significant contributions to the field.

Key Points about Virginia Satir:

-Born in Neillsville, Wisconsin, in 1916, Satir demonstrated an early interest in family dynamics and later pursued a career in education before transitioning to social work and psychotherapy.

Professional Life: After completing her education, Satir began a private practice in Chicago and later co-founded the Mental Research Institute (MRI) where she developed the first family therapy training program. She emphasized the importance of addressing family dynamics in therapy and worked extensively to train therapists in her approach.

Contributions: Satir's therapeutic approach focused on understanding the role of families in individual issues, emphasizing the importance of emotions as expressions of needs, navigating through chaos stages in therapy, and fostering connections within families. She believed in identifying hopes and dreams as a way to facilitate positive change[4].

Legacy: Virginia Satir's influence extends beyond family therapy into various branches of modern psychotherapy. Her unique approach, characterized by warmth, genuineness, and a focus on emotions, has left a lasting impact on therapeutic practices worldwide. The principles embodied in her work continue to be relevant and applicable across different fields where human communication and growth are desired[3].

Notable Works by Virginia Satir:

"Conjoint Family Therapy" (1964): Emphasized individual self-worth and the importance of addressing family dynamics during therapy.
"Peoplemaking" (1972): Explored human relationships and personal growth within the context of family dynamics.
"The New Peoplemaking" (1988): Continued her exploration of human relationships and personal development within families.

Virginia Satir's innovative approaches to therapy, focus on family dynamics, and emphasis on emotional expression have solidified her reputation as a transformative figure in the history of modern therapy.

Milton Erickson

Milton H. Erickson (1901-1980) was an American psychiatrist and psychologist known for his significant contributions to the fields of medical hypnosis and family therapy. He founded the American Society for Clinical Hypnosis and is recognized for his innovative approach to the unconscious mind, viewing it as creative and solution-generating.

Erickson's early life was marked by challenges, including dyslexia, color blindness, and being tone-deaf. Despite these difficulties, he developed a keen focus on communication and behavior, which later influenced his therapeutic techniques.

Throughout his career, Erickson emphasized storytelling, metaphor, and hypnosis in his approach to therapy. He believed in giving clients control over their own change process and utilized techniques like confusion, humor, reframing, and metaphors to facilitate therapeutic outcomes.

His approach, known as Ericksonian hypnosis and psychotherapy, revolutionized traditional therapeutic practices by emphasizing individualized treatment tailored to each patient's unique needs.

Erickson's work has influenced various forms of therapy such as brief therapy, strategic family therapy, solution-focused therapy, and neuro-linguistic programming. His legacy continues to shape modern psychotherapy practices worldwide.

Erickson's profound insights into human behavior and his development of innovative therapeutic techniques have left a lasting impact on the field of psychology. His emphasis on individualized care, empowerment of clients, and utilization of creative approaches has significantly enriched the therapeutic landscape and continues to inspire practitioners in diverse fields of mental health.

It is these three champions of transformative communication by which the communication model of neuro-linguistic programming is based on which was created by John Grinder and Richard Bandler.

 

Review of ‘This Is Your Brain on Food: An Indispensable Guide to the Surprising Foods that Fight Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, and More’

Review of ‘This Is Your Brain on Food: An Indispensable Guide to the Surprising Foods that Fight Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, and More’

"This Is Your Brain on Food: An Indispensable Guide to the Surprising Foods that Fight Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, and More" is a groundbreaking book authored by Uma Naidoo, MD. This review delves into the key themes, insights, and impact of this work that explores the intricate relationship between nutrition and mental health.

Key Themes and Insights

Dr. Uma Naidoo's book delves into the profound impact of nutrition on mental health, shedding light on how specific foods can influence conditions like depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, and more. The book emphasizes the importance of a holistic approach to mental health that includes dietary considerations. Through a comprehensive exploration of various nutrients and their effects on brain function, Naidoo provides readers with practical guidance on how to leverage food as a tool for mental well-being.

One of the central themes of the book is the concept of "nutritional psychiatry," which underscores the role of food in shaping brain health and emotional well-being. Naidoo navigates through scientific research to elucidate how certain nutrients can impact neurotransmitter function, inflammation levels, and overall brain health. By demystifying complex scientific concepts in an accessible manner, the author empowers readers to make informed choices about their diet to support mental wellness.

Impact and Relevance

"This Is Your Brain on Food" stands out as a seminal work that bridges the gap between nutrition and mental health. In a society where mental health issues are increasingly prevalent, Naidoo's book offers a refreshing perspective by highlighting the transformative power of food. By providing evidence-based recommendations and practical tips, the author equips readers with actionable strategies to enhance their mental well-being through dietary interventions.

The book's relevance extends beyond individuals struggling with specific mental health conditions to anyone interested in optimizing their cognitive function and emotional resilience. Naidoo's insights and holistic approaches to self-care and mental wellness. Through compelling narratives, case studies, and recipes, the author engages readers in a journey towards understanding the profound connection between what we eat and how we feel.

Through meticulous research, insightful analysis, and practical recommendations, Naidoo illuminates the transformative potential of food in combating various mental health challenges. This book serves as a beacon of hope for those seeking alternative avenues for improving their emotional well-being and cognitive function. Dr. Uma Naidoo's work is not just a guide; it is a testament to the profound impact that simple dietary changes can have on our brain health and overall quality of life.

Key Takeaways from "This Is Your Brain on Food"

Dr. Uma Naidoo's book, "This Is Your Brain on Food," offers profound insights into the relationship between nutrition and mental health. Here are some key takeaways from the book:

1. Nutritional Psychiatry: The concept of nutritional psychiatry is central to the book, emphasizing how food choices can impact brain health and emotional well-being[1].

2. Impact of Nutrients on Brain Function: The book explores how specific nutrients can influence neurotransmitter function, inflammation levels, and overall brain health, highlighting the importance of a balanced diet for mental wellness[1].

3. Connection Between Diet and Mental Health:  Naidoo elucidates the connection between diet and conditions like depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, and more, offering readers practical guidance on using food as a tool for mental well-being[1].

4. Role of Fat, Salt, and Sugar: While the brain may find pleasure in consuming fat, salt, and sugar, this pleasure is short-lived due to evolutionary design, emphasizing the need for a balanced approach to nutrition[4].

5. Holistic Approach to Mental Wellness: The book advocates for a holistic approach to mental wellness that includes dietary considerations, empowering readers to make informed choices about their diet to support their emotional and cognitive health[5].

6. Practical Recommendations: Through evidence-based recommendations and practical tips, Naidoo equips readers with actionable strategies to enhance their mental well-being through dietary interventions[2].

7. Transformative Power of Food: "This Is Your Brain on Food" serves as a beacon of hope for individuals seeking alternative ways to improve their emotional well-being and cognitive function through simple dietary changes[3].

These key takeaways encapsulate the transformative potential of leveraging food as a tool for enhancing mental wellness, as outlined in Dr. Uma Naidoo's insightful work.

Citations:
[1] https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/nutritional-psychiatry-your-brain-on-food-201511168626
[2] https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/book-review-your-brain-food-dr-uma-naidoo-janelle-bruland-cbse
[3] https://www.everand.com/book/556009447/Summary-of-Uma-Naidoo-s-This-Is-Your-Brain-on-Food
[4] https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/your-brain-food/202103/is-your-brain-food
[5] https://www.bookey.app/book/this-is-your-brain-on-food

Foods Recommended for Better Mental Health

Dr. Uma Naidoo, in her book "This Is Your Brain on Food," recommends specific foods that can positively impact mental health. Here are some of the foods highlighted by the author and supported by various sources:

Prebiotics and Probiotics: Foods rich in prebiotics and probiotics, such as yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi, can support gut health and potentially improve mental well-being[1].

Fruits and Vegetables: Incorporating a variety of fruits and vegetables like broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, berries, apples, and avocados into one's diet can provide essential nutrients that benefit brain health[2][3].

Fish: Fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon and mackerel, are known for their brain-boosting properties and may contribute to improved mood and cognitive function[4].

Nuts and Seeds: Nuts like walnuts and seeds like flaxseeds are excellent sources of healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals that can support brain health and overall mental well-being[3].

Legumes: Beans and legumes are valuable sources of plant-based protein, fiber, and nutrients that can help stabilize blood sugar levels and support a healthy gut microbiome, which is linked to mental health[3].

Foods to Avoid for Better Mental Health

Dr. Uma Naidoo, in her exploration of the connection between nutrition and mental health in "This Is Your Brain on Food," suggests avoiding certain foods that may negatively impact mental well-being. Here are some foods recommended to be avoided for better mental health, as supported by various sources:

1. Processed Foods: Foods high in processed sugars, unhealthy fats, and artificial additives should be limited as they can contribute to inflammation and negatively affect mood and cognitive function[2].

2. Trans Fats: Trans fats found in fried foods, baked goods, and processed snacks have been linked to increased inflammation in the body and may have adverse effects on mental health[2].

3. Excessive Caffeine: While moderate caffeine consumption is generally safe for most individuals, excessive intake of caffeine from sources like coffee, energy drinks, and soda can lead to anxiety, disrupted sleep patterns, and worsened mental health symptoms[2].

By being mindful of the consumption of these foods and making informed dietary choices, individuals can potentially support their mental well-being by avoiding items that may have negative effects on mood and cognitive function.

Citations:
[1] https://www.cbc.ca/radio/whitecoat/gut-health-mental-health-1.6974352
[2] https://www.optimallivingdynamics.com/blog/3-foods-you-should-avoid-for-better-mental-health
[3] https://umanaidoomd.com/blogs/blog/the-foods-to-eat-for-better-mental-health
[4] https://www.nytimes.com/2021/05/06/well/eat/mental-health-food.html
[5] https://time.com/6344753/food-improve-mood-nutritional-psychiatrists/

Whole Foods: Opting for whole foods over processed foods is emphasized for better mental health. Whole foods like eggs, nuts, seeds, beans, legumes, vegetables, fruits, fish, and fermented foods like yogurt are recommended for their nutritional benefits[3].

Mediterranean Diet: Following a Mediterranean diet rich in fruits, vegetables, legumes, olive oil, and fish has been associated with improved mood and cognitive function due to its nutrient-dense components[4].

By incorporating these nutrient-rich foods into one's diet as suggested by Dr. Uma Naidoo and supported by scientific research, individuals can potentially enhance their mental well-being through the power of nutrition.

Foods Recommended for Reducing Inflammation in the Body

Dr. Uma Naidoo, in her book "This Is Your Brain on Food," suggests incorporating specific foods into the diet to help reduce inflammation in the body. Drawing from various sources, here are some foods recommended by experts for their anti-inflammatory properties:

Fatty Fish: Oily fish like salmon, mackerel, tuna, and sardines are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which have been shown to help reduce inflammation in the body[1].

Berries: Berries contain high levels of anthocyanins, compounds that research suggests can reduce inflammation and support brain health[2].

Whole Fruits and Vegetables: Anti-inflammatory diets often emphasize whole fruits and vegetables as they are rich in antioxidants and phytonutrients that can help combat inflammation[3].

Whole Grains: Incorporating whole grains like quinoa, brown rice, and oats into the diet can provide fiber and nutrients that support a healthy inflammatory response[3].

Nuts and Seeds: Nuts such as almonds and walnuts, as well as seeds like flaxseeds and chia seeds, are sources of healthy fats and antioxidants that can help reduce inflammation[5].

Leafy Greens: Vegetables like spinach, kale, and Swiss chard are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that have anti-inflammatory properties[5].

By including these anti-inflammatory foods in one's diet as recommended by Dr. Uma Naidoo and supported by scientific research, individuals can potentially reduce inflammation in the body and promote overall health and well-being.

Citations:
[1] https://www.health.com/mind-body/13-foods-that-fight-inflammation
[2] https://www.prevention.com/food-nutrition/g42554501/food-for-inflammation/
[3] https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/320233
[4] https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/foods-that-fight-inflammation
[5] https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/13-anti-inflammatory-foods

 

How to Use Food to Conquer Mental Fatigue and Brain Fog with Dr Rhonda Patrick

How to Use Food to Conquer Mental Fatigue and Brain Fog with Dr Rhonda Patrick

Dr Rhonda Patrick shares how food can be used to reduce brain fog.

Summary

Brain fog, or a reduction in mental clarity, can be caused by high postprandial glucose response after meals and postprandial inflammatory response. Avoiding high glycemic index foods and eating smaller meals can help mitigate these effects. Exercise snacks and consuming omega-3 fatty acids can also help reduce postprandial inflammation.

Highlights

  • 0:45 ⏰: High postprandial glucose response after meals can cause brain fog.

 

  • 2:32 ⏰: Exercise snacks can help mitigate postprandial glucose response.

 

  • 4:10 ⏰: Eating protein or fat before carbohydrates can reduce postprandial glucose response.

 

  • 6:20 ⏰: Postprandial inflammatory response after meals can contribute to brain fog.

 

  • 8:15 ⏰: Consuming smaller meals can reduce postprandial inflammatory response.

 

  • 10:05 ⏰: Omega-3 fatty acids can help blunt the postprandial inflammatory response.

 

  • 12:00 ⏰: Omega-3 fatty acids also aid in resolving inflammation.

Key Insights

  • 💡 The postprandial glucose response, especially from high glycemic index foods, can disrupt brain function and contribute to brain fog.

 

  • 💡 Exercise snacks, short bursts of intense exercise before or after a meal, can help regulate postprandial glucose response and improve mental clarity.

 

  • 💡 Consuming protein or fat before carbohydrates can slow down the postprandial glucose response and reduce the impact of brain fog.

 

  • 💡 Postprandial inflammatory response after meals causes activation of the immune system, diverting energy away from the brain and leading to brain fog.

 

  • 💡 Eating smaller meals can help minimize the postprandial inflammatory response and improve mental clarity.

 

 

  • 💡 Omega-3 fatty acids also play a role in resolving inflammation and promoting overall metabolic and blood health.

 

Do You Want to Restore Cognitive Clarity and Reduce Brain Fog?

Try the Brain Pill and Recall What Mental Focus Can Be Like!

Bill C-63 and the Trudeau Cover Up of Security Breech

Bill C-63 and the Trudeau Cover Up of Security Breech

Article 63

Pierre

Bill C-63 and Trudeau's Mind

Rex Glacer asking what is wrong with these people?

Dr Jordan Peterson tweeting a retweet.
Nuisance lawsuits to keep opposition away or bankrupt them.

What Are PTSD Symptoms in Women?

What Are PTSD Symptoms in Women?

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) affects individuals differently, with women being two to three times more likely to develop PTSD compared to men. The symptoms of PTSD in women can manifest uniquely, leading to differences in how they experience and cope with the condition. Here is an overview of PTSD symptoms in women based on the provided search results.

Symptoms of PTSD in Women

1. Re-experiencing Symptoms:
- Recurrent distressing memories of the traumatic event.
- Flashbacks where the individual relives the traumatic event.

2. Arousal and Reactivity:
- Being easily startled or frightened.
- Always being on guard for danger.
- Trouble sleeping and concentrating.

3. Avoidance:
- Avoiding places, activities, or people that remind them of the traumatic event.
- Trying to avoid thinking or talking about the traumatic event.

4. Cognition and Mood:
- Negative thoughts about oneself, others, or the world.
- Hopelessness about the future.
- Difficulty maintaining close relationships.
- Feeling irritable, having angry outbursts, or engaging in self-destructive behavior.

Causes of PTSD in Women

- Women are more likely to experience high-impact trauma such as sexual assault, abuse, bullying, harassment, and violence.
- Traumatic events like sexual violence, physical assault, accidents, natural disasters, traumatic childbirth, and loss of a loved one can trigger PTSD in women.

Treatment and Diagnosis
- To receive a diagnosis of PTSD, a person must exhibit specific symptoms across different categories like avoidance, re-experiencing, cognition, and arousal.
- Treatment for PTSD often involves cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), prolonged exposure therapy, eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), group therapy, and medication such as antidepressants or anxiety medications. The most effective way to cure PTSD without drugs is the use of a step-by-step protocol (RTM) that works by taking the emotional charge out of the trauma memories.

Long-Term Impact
- PTSD can disrupt various aspects of life including work, relationships, health, and daily activities.
- Individuals with PTSD may be at a higher risk of developing other mental health issues like depression, anxiety disorders, substance abuse problems, eating disorders, and suicidal thoughts.

Understanding the unique symptoms and causes of PTSD in women is crucial for effective diagnosis and treatment. Seeking professional help is essential for managing PTSD symptoms and improving overall well-being.

What Are the Risk Factors for Developing PTSD in Women?

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) can affect individuals differently, with women being more susceptible to developing PTSD compared to men. Several risk factors contribute to the likelihood of developing PTSD in women:

1. Experiencing Traumatic Events:
- Living through dangerous events and traumas.
- Witnessing another person being hurt or seeing a dead body.
- Childhood trauma.

2. Emotional Responses:
- Feeling horror, helplessness, or extreme fear during the traumatic event.
- Having little or no social support after the event.
- Dealing with additional stressors post-event like loss of a loved one, pain and injury, or loss of a job or home.

3. Pre-existing Conditions:
- Having pre-existing mental health problems such as depression or anxiety disorders.
- Family history of mental health problems.
- Experiencing additional life stressors.

4. Biological Factors:
- Genetic predisposition that may make some individuals more likely to develop PTSD.

5. Vulnerability to Specific Traumas:
- Women are more likely to experience high-impact trauma like sexual assault, abuse, bullying, harassment, and violence.
- Experiencing traumatic events at a younger age.

6. Social Roles and Interpersonal Violence:
- Gendered social roles like wife, mother, or caretaker may compound the negative impact of trauma exposure in women.
- Ongoing interpersonal violence within relationships can increase susceptibility to mental health consequences.

7. Lack of Treatment Seeking:
- Females may experience symptoms for longer before seeking diagnosis and treatment compared to males.

8. Complex PTSD:
- Exposure to chronic multiple traumas can lead to Complex PTSD, which includes a complex of symptoms associated with early interpersonal trauma like alterations in affective impulses, attention and consciousness, self-perception, and relationships with others.

Seeking professional help and support is essential for managing PTSD symptoms effectively and improving overall well-being.

Which Careers Put Women Most at Risk for PTSD?

Certain careers have a higher percentage of women with PTSD due to the nature of the work and exposure to traumatic events. Here are some careers that are known to have a higher prevalence of PTSD among women:

1. Military Personnel:
- Military service involves exposure to combat situations, violence, and high-stress environments, leading to a higher risk of developing PTSD. A study was done to help women overcome PTSD using a non-drug intervention and & around 72% were symptom free in 6 weeks using the Reconsolidation of Traumatic Memories protocol.

2. Police Officers:
- Law enforcement personnel often face dangerous and traumatic situations, witnessing violence and dealing with high-pressure scenarios that can contribute to the development of PTSD.

3. Firefighters:
- Firefighters frequently encounter distressing situations such as rescuing people from fires, witnessing loss of life, and experiencing the emotional toll of their work, which can lead to PTSD.

4. First Responders/Ambulance Personnel:
- Individuals in these professions are exposed to traumatic events like accidents, shootings, and disasters, which can result in the development of PTSD due to repeated exposure to distressing situations.

5. Healthcare Workers:
- Healthcare professionals working in high-stress environments such as intensive care units may be at a higher risk of developing PTSD due to the emotional strain of dealing with critical situations and patient care.

6. Journalists:
- Photojournalists and war correspondents witness emotionally distressing events regularly, which can lead to PTSD symptoms due to exposure to traumatic content and experiences.

7. Other Healthcare Professionals:
- Mental health professionals are particularly at risk due to potential threats or violence from patients, contributing to a higher prevalence of PTSD among this group.

These professions involve exposure to trauma, violence, life-threatening situations, and high-stress environments, increasing the likelihood of developing PTSD among individuals working in these fields. It is essential for employers in these sectors to provide adequate support, counseling, and resources for employees who may be experiencing work-related PTSD symptoms.

To learn how to overcome PTSD using the reconsolidation of traumatic memories protocol you might want to take a look at our notion template called how to erase trauma memories in 5 hours which highlights successful intervention done on military men and women that suffered from PTSD.

How to Cure PTSD Four Times in 5 Hours with Memory Reconsolidation Therapy

How to Cure PTSD Four Times in 5 Hours with Memory Reconsolidation Therapy

This case study shows how a non-drug intervention can be successfully used to cure PTSD in a Vietnam veteran in under 5 hours.

Here is the PDF of The Reconsolidation of Traumatic Memories Protocol Case Study marked with my notes.

Below is a copy of the relevant text.

'Carl, our pseudonymous client, met criteria for at least one Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM IV) Criterion A traumatic event and a current PTSD diagnosis. In addition, he asserted the presence of one or more flashbacks or nightmares during the preceding month. At the initial assessment, and at 2- and 6-weeks post-treatment, Carl completed assessments for PTSD.'

4 PTSD Memories targeted.

  • Rocket Attack, 1971
  • Viet Cong Sapper
  • Claymore Mine, 1971
  • Ditch Rat Bites, 1971

For the full step by step intervention and resources:
Reconsolidation of Traumatic Memories-Bourke-Gray-Potts

'Carl, completed semi-structured clinical interviews at baseline to assess their current status and eligibility for participation. The PTSD Checklist-Military version (PCL-M) was administered to all participants at intake, two weeks, six-weeks, 6-months post and one-year post.'

Participants were admitted to the program with a PCL-M ≥ 50. Participants also completed the Posttraumatic Stress Scale-Interview (PSS-I) version at intake (PSS-I > 20) and two-weeks post. Observations of autonomic reactivity were recorded using an in-house instrument, the Behavioral Screening Instrument (BSI), whose results are not reported here. Subjective Units of Distress (SUDs) were elicited during treatment sessions at each elicitation of the trauma narrative using the standard ten-point Subjective Units of Distress Scale (SUDS).

Post treatment assessments relied upon the PSS-I and PCL-M at two-weeks post, the PCL-M and clinical observations at six-week, six-month, and one-year follow-ups. Clinical observations included the cessation of nightmares and flashbacks, the ability to re-tell the trauma narrative with a SUDS rating of 0, a fluid, fully detailed recall of the index trauma, and personal and family reports of positive adjustment.'

Carl was a talkative, thoughtful, reflective Vietnam vet who reached out for psychological assistance in 1984 for anger and “doing dangerous things that weren’t me”. He was diagnosed with PTSD, major depression, and was prescribed Prozac, which he had been taking for the past 34 years, along with sleep medications. Carl was an experimental subject, which meant that after qualifying to participate in the study he would immediately receive three individualized treatment sessions with the RTM protocol, with no waiting period. Follow-up interviews and measurements happened again at 2 week, 6 week, 6 month and 1 year intervals.'

'Pre-screen. At the Pre-screen, four different trauma events were reported. Carl easily qualified for the study due to three factors. First, Carl showed fast rising autonomic arousal when speaking of each event. Second, Carl was experiencing weekly trauma related nightmares and flashbacks. Third, his pre-treatment scores on the PCL-M and PSS-I were high, scoring 73 (of a possible 85 points) on PCL-M and 42 (of a possible 51 points) on PSSI. He endorsed PTS symptoms in all DSM IV clusters: re-living, avoidant, mood/hyper-vigilance. Based on the 75 minute pre-screen interview one trauma event was identified by the clinician as most physiologically reactive. This agreed with the client’s assessment that this was the most troubling. This event was linked to intrusive thoughts, nightmares and flashbacks 4 times a month.'

Carl reported that the flashbacks happened in the stillness of the night and he would flash back to the sky, red with incoming rockets and mortars. Additionally, he said he ruminated daily on his partner’s death. During a 1 ½ minute re-telling, the client’s hands immediately began trembling and his leg began bouncing up and down. Then, Carl’s voice broke and he physically froze. The clinician promptly interrupted the narrative and he was told, “that’s enough for now.” The topic was changed to the client’s favorite hobby.

The target event took place in Da Nang, 1971. In a 3 minute timeframe, Carl related the following:

“My worst experience was losing my service dog, Rex. I was part of the canine program at Da Nang and we became very close partners (voice warbles)… We developed a very close relationship. It wasn’t like any of the other units. We worked alone. This particular Christmas morning where Rex was killed (leg and hand trembling, pauses, freezes, head tilted down and right, pauses)… I’ve lived so many years of guilt (posture shifts, voice shifts, head lifts), because I should have died with my dog (voice trembling) … That dog was my partner and I’m alive and that dog died saving my life. When one of the rockets was coming down, Rex could hear the whistling of the fins. And he lunged, which brought me to the ground. The minute I hit the ground that rocket went off (leg shaking). What I re-live is the Medivac out of the area. I always remember I was laying on the floor of the helicopter and I had a loose leash. I still have (notice shift to present tense) the leash on my hand (voice shaking) and my dog (clinician attempted to interrupt telling, yet client kept talking)… I remember I moved my hand. I never felt it without my dog.” Clinician stood and interrupted saying,

“Thanks, count backwards 5-4-3-2-1, please.” Carl counts backwards. Carl shifted to talk of fishing and the recent purchase of a new rod for fishing. Event was given the name “Rocket Attack, 1971”.

Treatment One began two days later.

1.  Rocket Attack, 1971 (8 SUDS)

Treatment 1. Treatment 1 commenced with the first phase of the RTM protocol. Carl learned the visual formats characteristic of the RTM process using practice movies. He chose an activity he experienced recently which was ‘going fishing’ and the bookends (beginning and end points) for the movie were determined. The client was guided through three different versions of the practice movie. Carl was able to see himself dissociated, doing the activity on an imaginary movie screen. Additionally, he was able to take the color out of the movie and watch himself do the activity from beginning to end as a black and white movie. Associating into the end of the fishing event, in first person, through his own eyes, and going in reverse, backwards through the event, to the beginning, was practiced until it could be executed with ease.

'Client was asked to tune in to the event “Rocket Attack, 1971”. Carl responded by saying it was an “8 SUDs” and “it draws a lot of emotion.” Once the trauma intensity was calibrated, the clinician quickly moved on, changing the client’s focus of attention and physical position in order to ensure a relaxed re-structuring experience for Carl. The clinician directed the client to find a resourceful moment before the event happened, where he was safe. He chose “Ski patrol” at Mt. Green, where he worked stateside immediately before leaving for Vietnam. The end of the event, where he felt that he was safe, the event was over, and he survived, was the “Family gathering”, when he returned home. After doing the set-up from theatre to projection booth, Carl was lead through 11 iterations of the black and white movie watching himself in the theatre as he watched his 21-year-old self go through the rocket attack event. He was specifically directed to stay in the booth and watch the self in the theatre as he watched a black and white movie beginning at the safe image at Mt. Green - a black and white still image of himself on ski patrol. The procedure continued through the rocket attack, the death of Rex, and ended with a still black and white image, Carl, back home at the “Family gathering”.

This movie was run in 45 seconds or less. Carl had little difficulty doing the dissociated black and white movie. Only one time was he observed to associate into the movie, seeing it through his own eyes and in color.'

The variations included: extending the distance of the screen, the speed of the movie, watching only the bottom half and then only the top half, and temporal variations.

The Associated Color Reversal step followed and involved 8 repeated experiences of the event as imaginal, associated, multisensory reversals of the rocket attack ‘undoing itself’ beginning at the end of the event (Family gathering), and in 1-2 seconds moving backwards through the rocket attack to the beginning (Ski patrol). Carl experienced the associated kinesthetics of holding the empty leash and falling to the ground in reverse, undoing themselves. The sound of the incoming rocket was reversed, and events associated with guilt feelings were made a specific element of the undoing experience. After completing these two essential restructuring steps, the client looked visibly relaxed and was directed.

At the end of Round 1, Carl offered the following narrative with added information: “It was Christmas morning. We were advised there would be activity. We were three hours into patrol. Rex heard the high-pitched sound [of the incoming rockets]. He jumped and pulled me to the ground. At the moment the rocket hit the ground Rex was killed. At that point it turned into a Medivac. I now remember I did not leave Rex there alone. Rex was on the helicopter and not left behind. They put him on the helicopter with me. He was off leash. The leash was empty, yet he was there. He was covered in a poncho. I got a letter from the Squadron leader explaining how they had a nice burial for Rex.” When asked by the clinician, “how was this re-telling different?”, Carl responded that “I was comfortable. I did not see myself leaving my dog behind. I did not see the horrific things that I thought I saw. My dog was dead, but my dog was with me. I don’t feel painful. It was a terrible thing, but I understand it. I know what happened. I can’t well up in tears and cry like I normally want to do. I don’t know what is going on or what is happening, but I have a sense of pride in what I am talking about.”

Carl reported the event at a 3 SUDs. Client and clinician then moved on to the revised movies with a better, safer different outcome.

The first version of the revised movie involved Carl acting as a movie director on a movie set with cameras and stunt actors standing in for himself and Rex. In this revised version the rockets overshoot, everyone is down on the ground and OK; the rocket fire stops and they all jump on the helicopter, including Rex, and take off. Then, as Director, Carl yells cut and Carl’s substitute and Rex take off for their dressing rooms. A second revision involved Carl and Rex safely finishing their shift and going to China Beach, so Rex could wash his paws. In a third revised movie, the patrol is finished, Carl and Rex are re-assigned stateside and they fly home.

After running these multiple revised movies several times, Carl is directed to tune into the original event, “Rocket Attack, 1971,” and it is a 2 SUDs. He reflects voluntarily, “I don’t feel that whatever it was… that would take over. I don’t feel I’m leaving him behind. Wow, that’s pretty strong. I feel good, I do. (Here client exhales a deep sigh and takes a Kleenex to dab his eyes. The clinician is calibrating tears of relief.) He’s OK.” Client went on to further comment on the process, “I have no idea what is going on here. I feel in a much better place.” For Carl, the shift in focus to recognizing that he did not leave the dog behind represented an important pivot point in rewriting the trauma event. Since the event was not yet a 0 SUDS, Carl was instructed to do another round of five black and white dissociated movies and four associated color reversals for the same event. The same bookends are used. When directed to re-tell in detail, Carl related the event in a matter of fact tone. He said the re-telling was different this time in that, “I’m proud to tell the story. The dog gave his life for me. I’m honored to do that for him. I’m not torn up emotionally. I’m not thinking horrifically bad things. It was war. It is now a 1 SUDS.” Another revised movie was completed with Carl and Rex safely missing the rocket and Rex receiving accolades for his bravery. Revised version was run several times. Carl offered the following comment at this point, “In 40-plus years, I have never been able to discuss something in such a manner, that is, putting it into real perspective. I had to do what I had to do. My dog did what he was trained to do. It was war and we were the casualties of war, but we did the best we could. This is remarkable. This is wonderful.” The event was reported as a 0.

The treatment of “Rocket Attack, 1971” took 78 minutes in total to reach a 0 SUDs rating. 

2.  Viet Cong Sapper (8 SUDS)

Next the clinician moved on to an earlier Vietnam event, Hand to Hand Combat “Sappers”, that was replicated in a recurring nightmare. A Viet Cong ‘sapper’ was akin to a combat engineer. The task of VC ‘sappers’ was to penetrate American defense perimeters.
At pre-screen, Carl reported experiencing this recurring nightmare at least 4-8 times a month.

The nightmare content was described as follows:

“I am in a battle with no end to it.  My dog, Rex, is in the dream and he is aggressively fighting and biting one sapper. I have a knife and am involved in hand to hand combat with a second sapper.”

Carl indicates that he’d wake up in the morning and feel exhausted because it seemed like it never ended. His wife reported that he recently kicked a sliding door off its runner after jumping out of bed during a nightmare. She commented further saying that he frequently talks in his sleep saying repeatedly: “Be careful.”

Carl’s daughter disclosed that many times when she would walk up behind her dad, he would startle, spin around and raise his fists. As treatment one continues, Carl reports the “Viet Cong Sapper” event as follows:

“Rex and I were on night patrol. I went out on patrol anxious every night. Rex and I were always at least one-half mile away from help. It was very lonely on patrol. Drain ditches had outlets around the base. Sappers would come through the ditches giving them access to planes and weapons dumps. I completed 1st quarter of the patrol then started the 2nd quarter where I went down a tunnel. Rex was alerted to action as his ears went up. It happened so quickly. We were there engaged in a fight. Rex took one sapper and lunged at him. I had a rifle but no way to get in position to do damage. The sapper was on me and I pulled my ka-bar [combat knife]. I stabbed him in the stomach and cut the side of his throat (facial muscles tighten, voice quickens, breathing gets shallower). I cut his jugular vein and he was bleeding. He went to the ground and I just kept stabbing and stabbing (throat tightens, voice tone changes). I don’t want him to get up and move. Sappers taped their chests with duct tape so that if they got injured they could keep going and get to their target. They are like terrorists. The most troubling part was blood and things have a terrible odor. I remember the whole picture (looks at the ground) of chaos that I painted. It’s never going to come to an end. That was the first time in my life fighting like that… fighting for my life. It felt in slow motion and ‘please stop, please stop’, I was saying to myself. I did not want to be there at the base of this tunnel with the Viet Cong sapper.” Client reflects that with that re-telling he felt the emotion in his chest and re-experienced stabbing and stabbing and seeing the guy bleeding from his neck. During that telling the clinician observed shifts in breathing, voice tone and tempo, facial muscles tightening and skin color draining. The client described the event at an 8 SUDS with feelings of fear and terror linked to it.

The client and clinician decided to use the same bookends as used in the event “Rocket Attack, 1971”. The client was then returned to the movie theatre, was seated, then guided to put the first still black and white image on the screen. Next, he was directed to float up to the projection booth leaving his body in the theatre. From the booth he was instructed to watch the self in the theatre as he watched the sapper movie of the younger self. The client was guided through 11 iterations of the black and white sapper movie at a distance and dissociated, with each lasting 15-20 seconds or less. The accelerated speed of the dissociated reviews was designed to counteract the client’s description of the event as perceived ‘in slow motion with no end’. Once the self in the theatre was comfortable watching the event in black and white, Carl was directed to come down from the projection booth, re-enter his body in the theatre, walk down to the screen, and step into the end bookmark, “Family gathering”. Seven iterations of the associated color reversal followed. The client completed all steps successfully.

When directed to re-tell the event in as much detail as possible, Carl described it more briefly indicating that when the sapper came upon him and Rex, he slashed him, fell on top of him and stabbed him several times. From there, a SWAT team came. He points out that there was no equipment in 1971 like they have today. He was out on patrol with no radio turned on. He says that this re-telling was different in that he no longer felt tension in his chest and hands. “I was comfortable with it. I did what I was trained to do. My dog did what he was trained to do. If I did not respond the way I did, I would not be here talking to you. It was war.”

Carl’s pre-treatment narrative, Carl reported that he only stabbed the sapper three times, and no longer described the event as “slow motion over and over again”. The event was rated with a SUDs level of 2. Two different revised movies were created and run with multiple revisions. The first revision involved a movie director version on a movie set with stunt actors and Carl as director. All equipment was fake, non-crippling gear and actors got up from the ground after the fight and went to a staff party. This version was run several times.

The next safer outcome involved Carl and Rex on patrol, sighting the Sappers from a distance, exchanging gunfire, and taking the Sappers out. Carl liked this version, commenting: “There was no rolling around in sewer water. Engaging at a distance is much better.”

He ran this revised version multiple times. The client then re-told the actual event and indicated that his revised perspective was that “It was a night in the jungle. A night doing my job. It had to be done. I feel it’s a 0 SUDs now.” For this trauma, the client’s entire experience took 36 minutes. As the clinician drew the session to a close, the client was asked how he was feeling. His response was: “I’m not sure. Wow. I’ve sat for a couple of hours and I’ve done some things here that I’ve tried to do with others in a different way and never have come close to having this type of ending with a session. I love it. I want to build upon that.”

Treatment 2. Carl returned for RTM session 3 days later. He described his experience over the past few days as follows:

“A lot of processes inside myself have changed. Since the last session my thought process has changed when it comes to Vietnam. I’ve been talking with my wife and daughter. I remember it as a process. I go to Vietnam, did what I had to do, but came home to a good process. I wasn’t stopping off and dwelling (on past events). I wasn’t getting these charged up feelings. I feel more rested and comfortable than I have in a long time. We talk about the process (RTM). It’s absolutely phenomenal. It’s hard to imagine how somebody can be dealing with something like this for so many years and having psychiatric care and getting medication for umpteen years. I’m off the sleep meds and blood pressure pills and I cut back on the Prozac. I want to take this good feeling and expand on it. I’ve been talking with the neighbors and getting out for a morning walk. My front door is not a blockade for me anymore. I go to bed after the late evening news and am sleeping with a clear head. No more checking doors and windows. Before, I know I’d lock the doors and windows and then go back and check them again. I’m calm now.”
0 SUDS. 36 minutes of RTM Treatment.

3. Claymore Wire, 1971

The clinician directed the client’s attention to a third Vietnam traumatic event, “Claymore Wire, 1971.” At pre-screen, the event was described as follows: “I was assigned at the Da Nang airport to patrol the perimeter. Incoming Rockets were going off. When rockets were going up, there would be infiltration happening somewhere on the base. I was in charge of the machine gun on the vehicle. As we were moving, a claymore wire was set between the trees. (Pause and deep breathe.) The wire wrapped around my neck. (Swallows and color drains from face.) I got pulled out of the turret. Fortunately, the wire broke.” The shift in voice tone and tempo are audible as he expressed with a horrified look on his face: “I would have been decapitated if that wire did not break.”

 

Because this event was identified at Pre-screen by Carl as significant, and sympathetic arousal was observed, the clinician decided to check and see how he represented the event in the present time. Carl started the description by saying, “It was the 1st event that set a precedent in my mind that this is dangerous. I had only been in country for a week and it was the beginning of events that would weigh on me for years and years and years.” He went on to relate the event with the same details described at Pre-screen, yet was observed to tell it smoothly, with even voice tone and tempo and no autonomic arousal. Client indicated that: “I did not feel choked up and, to be honest, I talked about this with my family since that the last meeting. It’s done. There is no component of it that is troubling.”

4. Ditch Rat Bites, 1971

The Clinician moved on to a 4th Vietnam event, “Ditch, Rat Bites, 1971,” that related to a long term rat phobia.

This traumatic memory is somewhat reminiscent of a scene from First Blood, starring Sylvester Stallone where Rambo walks through muddy water while bitten by rats.

 

At pre-screen, Carl reported this event with a terse, rapid voice tempo, saying: “Rockets and mortars were incoming. I jumped into a sewage ditch. (Facial muscles tighten, posture shifts.) Rats were biting all over my body and holding onto my skin. (Vocal pitch raises.) I get medevacked to Saigon for rabies shots.” In an interview with client’s adult daughter she reported that when she was younger their family physician wanted her to get a pet. She chose a pet hamster. She said that anytime she brought it in the room, her father would flinch and start sweating.

At the 2nd treatment client and clinician were 25 minutes into the session and Carl’s re-counting of the event sounded as follows: “It was 3 am in the morning. Rex and I were on patrol. Around the base were many sewage ditches. This was how they transported waste. Trenches were a critical point for securing our property. VC sappers would crawl through them. This morning there was rocket, and mortar fire, and they would land close. I literally jumped into the ditch. Within seconds the rats were all over me; it was like a biting frenzy. Rex stayed on the bank. After 15 seconds I jumped out of there. It took 2-3 days before I got help. Rats were noted for their rabies. If you were bit by a rat, you could assume you were rabid. I got back to the base in Da Nang and cleared up the wounds on my hands. I decided to go through a course of injections. I had a terrible reaction to the duck embryo and they medevacked me to Saigon.”

The clinician asked about the most troubling part of the event and the client indicated: “The smell and noise. I smell the sewage (note shift to present tense) and feel them biting (rubs his fingers together).” Clinician calibrated as Carl associated into his worst second in the ditch and re-experienced the smells and sounds. The client then shifted to a dissociated perspective and commented further: “You could not see anything. They were big, black and making a noise. I couldn’t get out of the ditch fast enough. I was confined and did not have control. If I saw a mouse or rat today, I would get pretty tense. (Client looks down and imagines rodent and tightens throat.) I want it removed.”

Carl evaluated: “Telling it now was definitely less intense than before. I go to my happy place, Mt. Green ski patrol.” Carl reported event at a 4 SUDS level. RTM protocol treatment proceeded. RTM process for Carl involved the same bookends, “Mt. Green ski patrol” (beginning) and “Family gathering” (end point). Client returned to the movie theatre, floated to the projection booth, and watched self in theatre watch the younger self go through the event in black and white. Black and white movie variations were repeated 9 times, including lightening the movie to shades of gray due to the night time context of the event. Brightening the movie to shades of gray and running it very quickly so that the self in theatre could see the younger self in the ditch and then jumping out quickly, was reported as comfortable to watch by the self in the theatre. The associated color reversal step was repeated six times. The client was able to do this step handily and each iteration involved undoing a sensory component. The sounds of biting rats were experienced as receding, the smells fading and the felt sensations reversing. Each iteration ended at the start point (Mt. Green, skiing), where the younger self was safe and away from the rats. The narrative followed: “Rex and I were on patrol. There were heavy rockets and mortar. My number 1 instinct was to get down to the ground as low as I could. I jumped into a ditch that was full of rats and sewage. I was bitten numerous times. I finally jumped out of the ditch. I notified the medical folks what happened. It was 1 ½ days before I could get to a place for medical attention. I went to Saigon for 10 weeks of treatment.”

The clinician then asked: “How was that re-telling different this time?”

Carl responded: “It feels like part of a process I went through. I don’t have that horrible, choked up panicky… it’s over. I can think of the memory, yet the good outweighs the bad. I go to my safe place, Mt. Green. This event is just a memory. As I close my eyes this event is back from me.” Client rates event at 1 SUDs. Clinician decides to do some revised movies even though the event is at a suitable SUDs rating. For a revised movie, Carl indicated that he wanted the smells of popcorn and cotton candy wafting through the event, bunny rabbits in the ditch and landing on green grass. This revised movie was run disassociated, then run associated 8 times. Carl then re-told the actual event and said: “It’s a 0 SUDs. It’s like I go from combat to a Disney movie. It’s amazing. I feel no panic.” The clinician tested further and asked him to imagine a rat in his garage at home. He indicates, “I see it. It’s not going to hurt me. I shoo him out.”

Treatment of this event took 30 minutes in total.

Treatment 3. Carl arrived at treatment 3 saying he was sleeping well and had no flashbacks or nightmares related to the treated events. He was asked to re-tell each of the 3 events. With each telling no reactive indices were reported or observed. Carl indicated there were no other events in need of RTM treatment. The clinician and Carl met for 15 minutes and Carl left.

Treatment Outcomes. The two-week follow-up consisted of repeating the PCL-M and PSSI, the client was also directed to re-tell the target trauma. In Carl’s case “Rocket Attack, 1971” was the event specified. Family members, if present, were interviewed. At the 2 week follow-up, Carl’s wife and daughter volunteered their observations as to differences they were noticing post-treatment. For the three other follow-ups (6 week, 6 month and 1 year), only the PCL-M was administered. The Post Treatment Behavioral Assessment (not reported here) was conducted at all three follow-ups, in order to assess flashbacks, nightmares, and maintenance of behavioral changes. The 6 month and 1 year follow-ups were conducted over the phone.
After two weeks Carl met with the psychometrist. At that time, his score on the PCL-M had gone down from 73 (intake) to 17 (2 weeks), a 56-point decrease. None of the DSM IV symptom clusters were endorsed. His score on the PSSI diminished to 0, a 42-point difference. He reported no flashbacks or nightmares in the past 2 weeks. Specifically, the combat nightmare with the sapper, which had been happening 1-2 times weekly, had not returned. Carl went from sleeping 5-6 hours nightly to a full 8 hours sleep. Carl commented that, “It’s amazing to wake up feeling good. Sleep is half the battle. Since night patrol in Vietnam, I’ve been a night person.” No physiological arousal was observed or reported in relation to the narrative.

Carl was clearly reporting absence of re-living/intrusive symptoms, specifically no disturbing image of Rex’s death, feeling upset when reminded of death and killing, or spontaneously having physical reactions like breaking out in sweats when reminded of Vietnam events. His post-treatment behavioral reports further testified to the shift in re-experiencing symptoms. First, he verbalized: “When I look at Rex’s picture on the wall, it’s more of a positive for me.” Second, he offers, “I am not wearing Rex’s dog tags anymore. They are with my other dog tags. I have never gone without them. I took them off after treatment 2. I put that part of Rex I always felt had to be here (pointing to his heart) aside, in another place.”

Changes in avoidant symptoms were marked by significant shifts in Carl’s thinking and behavior. Rather than having to work to push trauma related thoughts and feelings aside, Carl reported, as early as the beginning of treatment two, that he comfortably talked to his wife and daughter about the treated events, Rocket Attack, 1971 and Sappers, as well as the Claymore wire event. The breakthrough for him was that he felt comfortable doing so with no tearing or other sympathetic arousal. Carl indicated he had reconnected with his fishing partner with whom he had not spoken in 8 years. He said that during the call: “There was no loss of words; no feeling of having to explain. It was like we just got out of the boat together. Now I want to socialize and communicate. I feel no need to be back in a suffering position. Before I would do anything not to put myself in a position to socialize. Now there is no discomfort talking to people.” So, rather than avoiding activities and situations, and having no interest in free time activities, Carl was talking with neighbors and engaging with family members rather than detached. His wife and daughter echoed these changes. His ‘zest for life,’ as he described it, contrasted sharply with past thinking that, “I thought tomorrow would bring nothing but pain and anguish.” Rather than no future plans or hopes, Carl described planning ahead: “I try to make every day an active day. I have been walking and gardening. I plan ahead for short fishing jaunts.” Carl was affirming his future and most definitely conveying a future orientation. Carl says of a difficult family situation that arose recently that, “Unlike in the past, I did not feel myself getting dragged down.”

Carl reported handling this situation decisively, without the tangle of emotions he would have in the past. His emotional palette involved a wider range of emotions, and greater clarity in thinking was his report and the clinician’s observation.

Carl displayed and reported a significant reduction in his level of arousal. The client’s wife and daughter were interviewed and echoed this shift in behavior. The wife reported that when she and Carl would watch TV crime or history shows involving loud banging noises, she was observing that he was no longer startling and jumping out of his seat as he had for years. She offered that he is “so much calmer.” Both wife and daughter echoed their pleasure in Carl’s calmer demeanor indicating, “If dad was in a mood and on edge the whole family would be on edge.” The earlier report at treatment two of no longer being obsessed with a house break-in and compulsively checking on doors and windows, further verified Carl’s decreased need to be on guard and super-watchful. Carl summed up the two-week follow-up by saying: “I’m getting off the Prozac. I’ve been taking 60 mg for as long as I can remember. I’m doing a gradual cutback using a Harvard medical process. When we meet for the 6 week follow-up it will be my last day. Now I want to socialize and communicate.” Carl summed up the follow-up by reflecting: “A significant change was made which impacted how I thought of each event. I have lived with this for 40 years and half of that trying to hide the emotion and pain and then to the point where it comes out. Now there’s an opportunity. I am a changed person after 40 plus years.”

At the six week, in-person follow-up (4 weeks later) scores on the PCL-M were recorded at 17, retaining the 56 point decrease seen at the 2 week follow-up. Carl reported no flashbacks or trauma-related nightmares. He reported socializing, exercising, feeling safe, calm and energized. Carl indicated he had just taken his last 10 mg dose of Prozac earlier that day. Carl had been on that medication for 30 years and was glad he no longer had to depend on it to feel good throughout the day.

At the six month follow-up, Carl’s score on the PCL-M remained stable at 17. He reported no flashbacks or nightmares. The six month follow up happened in February. Carl reported enjoying Christmas Eve and Christmas day, and the anniversary of Rex’s death, for the first time in years. This was in marked contrast to the report of his daughter, 4 months earlier, who had indicated that previously, for every Christmas Eve, for as long as she could remember, “Dad would toast Rex and then sit in silence, alone, for hours. On Christmas day he would seem melancholy all day.” Carl also indicated that this Christmas went smoothly. He reported feeling joy and a deep appreciation for life as he talked with family and visitors and his toasts were a celebration. At the one-year follow-up, Carl again scored 17 on the PCL-M. No flashbacks or nightmares. He reported sleeping comfortably, enjoying his wife and family, socializing, walking, and continuing to experience a “zest for life”.

Once the central trauma (Rocket Attack, 1971) and an important second trauma (Sappers) had been successfully treated, the process streamlined in a significant manner and its effects generalized to other events that might previously have needed treatment, or more treatment.

Streamlining was apparent in the lessened temporal investment in the treatment of later traumas. The first event took 70 minutes, the second and third took about half of that (36 and 30 minutes, respectively). This suggests that practice effects after the first treatment were a significant contributor to later treatments. Not only had the basic cognitive elements been practiced multiple times before (practice sessions) and during treatment (11 or more black and white movies and multiple associated reversals and rescriptings), but their subsequent negative reinforcement through the lessening of negative affects (fear, anxiety, sympathetic arousal, loss of control) may be presumed to have increased their availability and utility (behavioral salience) across treatments and sessions.

We may also suspect that the new behaviors, through the same mechanism of reconsolidation that we use as a major explanatory element, became incorporated in the meta-experience of the class of negative and intruding psychological states. So that now, when he thinks of rats, the phobic response is gone, and they are imagined, spontaneously, as bunnies. This process may be related to Gregory Bateson’s (1972) concept of second level learning (Learning II), in which the organism learns how to learn and learns to apply the learned behavior in similar contexts (Bateson, 1972; Kaiser, 2016; Tosey, Visser, &Saunders, 2012).
It is interesting to note that Carl so embraced what he called his ‘happy place’ that the bookends at the beginning and end of the “Rocket Attack, 1971” were used as bookends for the second (Sappers) and third (Rats in the Ditch) treated events. This suggests that these were effective for him in delimiting the traumatic space. That is, they really were safe places in which the trauma had either not yet happened or was truly over as an existential reality. Moreover, they, or their feeling tones, appear to have been integrated into his perception of the traumatic memories.

At one point, Carl refers to accessing the Mt. Green ski patrol scene as his happy place. The bookends apparently provide emotional contexts that he now, consciously or unconsciously, uses to reframe the meaning of potentially traumatic events. This may reflect that these “bookends” were in fact incorporated in the larger context of the fear memories as suggested below:
In previous reports (Gray & Bourke, 2015; Gray & Teall, 2016; Gray, Budden-Potts, & Bourke, 2017; Tylee et al., 2017), we have emphasized our belief and intent that the rescripting exercise in the second part of the intervention does not change the original memory, but provides a weakening of its salience and its meaning as an enduring threat in the present time. Here we note that Carl’s restructuring of the rat attack as a Disneyesque fantasy of soft grass, the odor of popcorn, and fuzzy bunnies may have been carried forward into everyday life as an alternate interpretive context for responding to rodents in his every-day life. In an imaginal test following the revised movie we noted above:

Carl wanted the smells of popcorn and cotton candy wafting through the event, bunny rabbits in the ditch and landing on green grass. This revised movie was run disassociated then associated 8 times.

Carl then re-told the actual event and said:

“It’s a 0 SUDs. It’s like I go from combat to a Disney movie. It’s amazing. I feel no panic.”

Clinician tests further and asks him to imagine a rat in his garage at home.

He indicates: “I see it. It’s not going to hurt me. I shoo him out.”
Here we see an imaginal, metaphorical extension (Skinner, 1957) of the revised event to similar contexts. This also reflects our discussion of Batesonian Level II learning (Bateson, 1972), above.
We note that there were several traumas that either were mentioned in intake or arose only after treatment of the other traumas, that Carl felt no longer needed treatment. He felt that they had become just part of his process. Specifically, his near decapitation by the tripwire of a booby trap connected to a claymore mine, was regarded as no longer traumatizing.

Generalization of the behaviors learned in the context of the treatment also appears in his interpersonal relations, his self control, and a general loss of hypervigilance. This supports our previous claims that insofar as other personal issues and comorbidities are directly related to the index trauma(s), they will often be resolved (Gray & Bourke, 2015; Gray & Teall, 2016; Gray et al., 2017; Gray & Liotta, 2012; Tylee et al., 2017). So, Christmas is redeemed, obsessive checking of home security disappears, self-control is manifested in difficult interpersonal relations, etc.
We again point to the persistence of Carl’s positive adjustment at one year post. At the one-year follow-up, Carl’s PCL-M remained stable at 17. He reported neither flashbacks nor nightmares. He was sleeping comfortably through the night, enjoying his wife and family, socializing, walking, and continuing to experience a “zest for life”.

Observations
At the beginning of treatment, Carl, like all clients in the study, met diagnostic criteria for current PTSD using PCL-M. The PSS-I was also captured at intake and two-weeks post. Carl scored far above the intake criterion of 20. His two week score was 0. Carl’s SUDs ratings began at 8 for the most intense trauma and decreased to 0 for all traumas at the end of treatment.

When trauma narratives were elicited at follow-up sessions, SUDS levels remained at 0.

At baseline, Carl had shown clear signs of autonomic reactivity, including tearing, freezing, color changes, breathing changes, loss of detail and the inability to coherently relate the entire narrative. At follow-up, his capacity to recall the events fully, as coherent narratives, without the observable indicia of autonomic arousal (tears, flushing, pausing, freezing, changing color and vocal tone, etc.) attested to his changed comfort level with the material. He also indicated that they were now comfortable with the trauma memories and that they were viewed as distant, relatively dissociated memories.

Several significant observations may be made regarding RTM, PTSD and the nature of the observed changes:
a) Here (and in the larger study), the client spontaneously reassessed and reintegrated the trauma memory into a fuller, more self-affirming vision of their own past. This suggests that, rather than being the path to recovery as hypothesized by some (Brewin, Dalgleish, & Joseph, 1996; Resick, Monson, & Chard, 2006), these changes may be the fruit of the transformed perceptions created by the RTM process.

b) With Carl, as with all of the treatment completers, reduction of the felt impact of the trauma, as evidenced by reduction in SUDs, was associated with more complete memory retrieval, more coherent narratives and a larger perspective on the event itself. Moreover, as the negative affect surrounding the index trauma decreased, this suggests that the narration is less the curative agent, as expected in CPT (Brewin, Dalgleish, & Joseph, 1996; Resick, Monson, & Chard, 2006), as it is evidence of trauma resolution. This is supported by a growing body of evidence to the effect that stress and strong emotion impair various memory functions (Diamond, Campbell, Park, Halonen, & Zoladz, 2007; Samuelson, 2011).

c) For Carl and other cases in the study, comorbid diagnoses including depression and guilt were eliminated or at least ameliorated with the resolution of the intrusive symptoms. This has been reported in other studies of RTM (Gray & Bourke, 2015; Gray & Liotta, 2012; Tylee, et al.2016) and have included the cessation of substance abuse/dependence and marital discord. The same effect has been observed by Resick, Monson and Chard with CPT (2006). This suggests that, in some cases, co-morbidities are maintained as responses to the intrusive symptoms of PTSD and not as self-maintaining syndromes.
d) Despite the listing of the age of the memory as a boundary condition of the reconsolidation phenomenon, such that older memories tend to resist labilization (Agren, 2014; Fernández, Bavassi, Forcato, & Pedreira, 2016; Forcato, 2007; Kindt et al., 2009; Lee, 2009; Schiller & Phelps, 2011; Schiller et al., 2013), these results, treating traumas with a life span of 46 years, suggest that some other interpretation is needed. We lead to the belief, with Lee, Nader, and Schiller (2017), that the replay of traumatic memories as flashbacks and nightmares maintains them as current memories. That is, each time the memory is evoked and labilized through the expression of intrusive symptoms, it is reconsolidated as a present-time threat, making it more susceptible to labilization and reconsolidation than older memories not renewed in this manner.

Summary
The client presented in this case study illustrated successful PTSD treatment using a novel, brief intervention requiring fewer than 5 hours of treatment. Using diagnostic criteria for Military trauma (PCL-M ≥ 50) his intake score was 73 and no longer met criteria for PTSD diagnosis following RTM. These gains were maintained, as reported above, at one-year posttreatment. These results are noteworthy in that Carl suffered from multiple, treatment resistant traumas, a complex trauma history, and had suffered from PTSD, for 46 years. Carl had previously been treated to little or no avail by the Veterans Administration and various veteran outreach agencies.
These results support RTM’s presentation as a brief, effective treatment for PTSD in those cases whose symptoms focus upon intense, automatic, phobic-type responses to intrusive symptoms.

 

To learn more about the clinical use of memory reconsolidation, this PDF by Bruce Ecker is over 90 pages and a good start. https://www.coherencetherapy.org/files/Ecker_2018_Clinical_Translation_of_Memory_Reconsolidation_Research.pdf

The study for this article is from the RTM-Bourke-Gray-Potts study.  

 

 


Learn the mental training strategies used by the military to clear veterans of PTSD.  This is the strategy mentioned in the Washington Post that is considered the most effective and least known protocol for changing problem memories.

Get Over a Breakup and Learn to Change problem memories so you can move forward without the baggage of a past relationship.

Learn how to get over a breakup fast and change the memories of your ex, for good!

 

 

 

Mind Control and Weaponizing Psychology During Covid

Mind Control and Weaponizing Psychology During Covid

Jason Christoff is a mind control expert and he has given a talk about the weaponization of psychology for mind control duing the Covid operations.


 

Here are highlights of the talk.

- 💡 Confusion is a powerful tool in mind control, as it makes individuals reliant on external authorities and unable to make logical decisions for themselves.
- 💡 The examples of confusion tactics during the pandemic demonstrate the intentional manipulation of information to confuse the public and maintain control.
- 💡 Group pressure is a psychological mechanism that drives individuals to conform to the majority's views, suppressing independent thinking and critical analysis.
- 💡 The various psychological tactics employed during the pandemic aim to instill fear, guilt, and shame, creating a sense of powerlessness and compliance.
- 💡 Paycheck mind control refers to individuals who prioritize financial gain over morality and ethics, allowing themselves to be manipulated for personal gain.
- 💡 Reclaiming morality and ethics is crucial to combatting mind control and restoring the principles on which nations were founded.
- 💡 To overcome mind control, individuals must lead with courage, take action, and fearlessly express their opinions and beliefs.

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