The Stanford neuroscientist explains: Do this every day to heal your brain from traumatic events

The Stanford neuroscientist explains: Do this every day to heal your brain from traumatic events

Brain trauma is a vast topic that covers a wide range of topics. It ranges from emotional trauma due to stressful life events to nutritional deficiencies that can affect the brain's optimal functionality. Additionally, physical trauma such as concussions or injuries that directly impact the brain can cause serious damage. Various brain-related diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and traumatic brain injuries, are often the result of these different types of trauma.

Likewise, not only is physical brain health crucial, but mental well-being also plays an essential role. Depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can result from emotional trauma and, in severe cases, lead to complications in the brain. Click here for a detailed guide to brain diseases.

Stanford neuroscientist's healing advice: Harness the power of your eyes

The renowned neuroscientist Dr. Andrew Huberman of Stanford University has made notable contributions to the field of neuroscience through his groundbreaking research. His podcast, followed by millions of people around the world, is packed with helpful tips on programming the brain for improved functionality and recovery.

He recently educated the public about an innovative, simple, yet powerful exercise for healing physical and emotional trauma, an experience that almost everyone faces at some point. This exercise relies on the novel use of the eye muscles to unlock a unique part of the brain that is critical to healing from trauma.

Lateral eye movement: A path to healing from trauma

This healing exercise trains the brain to safely remember traumatic events, thereby promoting the recovery process. The procedure is very simple:

1. Bewegen Sie Ihre Augen seitlich, also von einer Seite zur anderen.
2. Denken Sie dabei an ein angstauslösendes Ereignis, sei es geistig, emotional oder körperlich, das kürzlich oder in der Vergangenheit stattgefunden hat.
3. Führen Sie diese Übung in drei Sätzen mit jeweils 20 Wiederholungen durch, ähnlich wie beim Heben von Gewichten.

By moving your eyes sideways, you activate the part of the brain responsible for storing traumatic memories. This activity helps your brain process these memories without delving too deeply into the subconscious, according to Dr. Huberman explains in more detail in the following video.

EMDR Therapy: A Scientifically Based Method for Trauma Healing

This eye-based exercise is part of a widely recognized therapy called EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), developed by Dr. Francine Shapiro was developed. It is recommended as an effective trauma treatment by several institutions, including the American Psychiatric Association and the Department of Defense and Veterans Affairs.

Dr. Shapiro's contributions have been recognized worldwide and received numerous awards such as the International Sigmund Freud Award and an award for outstanding contributions to the practice of trauma psychology from the Trauma Division of the American Psychological Association.

For a basic demonstration of how EMDR works, see the video below. There are many more advanced, clinically approved ways to perform EMDR therapy, and it can also be done at home with minimal equipment.

Alternative therapies for trauma healing

In addition to EMDR, several other therapy techniques have been shown to be effective in trauma healing:

1. Energy production:

   This technique involves tapping the body's meridian points to restore the flow of energy. When our brains become hypersensitive due to past trauma or fear, our cognitive and emotional processes can grind to a halt. Energy tapping can relieve these feelings by combining talk therapy and gentle tapping movements to stimulate the body. You can learn more about energy tapping here or in the book “Energy Tapping for Trauma” by Fred Gallo and Anthony Robbins.

2. Emotion code:

   This from Dr. Therapy developed by Bradley Nelson aims to identify and literally release trapped emotions, which are harmful emotional energies from negative past events. Dr. Nelson's book "The Emotion Code" provides a detailed guide to this innovative therapy technique.

Supplements and diet for brain health

Implementing appropriate dietary habits and consuming the right supplements can significantly improve brain functionality and promote positive thinking.

1. Magnesium:

   This essential mineral supports the body's relaxation and stress management, creating a conducive environment for inner work. Oral or topical supplementation can help provide a physical foundation for treating deeper issues.

2. Medicinal mushrooms:

   Strains such as lion's mane, turkey tail, shiitake, maitake, chaga and reishi possess neurotropic properties that improve brain function by repairing nerve endings and synapses. This repair promotes efficient communication between brain cells, resulting in improved concentration, memory and attention.

3. Omega-3 fatty acids:

   Omega-3, found in wild-caught fish oil, improves communication between brain cells and helps manage the symptoms of brain fog, including memory and attention difficulties.

Additional natural alternatives and dietary supplements

1. B vitamins:

   B vitamins, particularly B-12, are associated with better brain health. They are thought to slow brain shrinkage in people with early dementia and may aid the synthesis of brain chemicals that affect mood and other brain functions.

2. Probiotics:

   There is ongoing scientific interest in the gut-brain axis – the two-way communication between the brain and the gut microbiota. Certain strains of probiotics have been shown to reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression.

3. Adaptogens:

   Herbs such as Ashwagandha and Rhodiola rosea help the body adapt to stress, thereby helping to cope with mental health issues resulting from trauma.

4. Physical exercise:

   Physical activity is known to promote the release of endorphins, so-called “feel-good hormones”. Regular exercise can improve mood, reduce anxiety, and contribute to overall brain health.

5. Meditation and Mindfulness:

   Practices like meditation and mindfulness are scientifically proven to reduce stress and anxiety, increase concentration, and promote overall brain health.

6. A healthy diet:

   Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains can provide the nutrients necessary for brain health.

Remember: Before taking any new supplements or changing your diet, be sure to consult a doctor.

Conclusion: The path to healing from brain trauma

Our brain is a complex and resilient structure capable of healing from various forms of trauma. Like Dr. As Andrew Huberman points out, simple exercises like side eye movements and EMDR therapy can trigger profound healing responses. When combined with alternative therapies such as Energy Tapping and Emotion Code, as well as a supportive diet and the right supplements, we can be on the path to recovery and overall brain health. This holistic approach will not only aid healing, but will also help prevent future trauma and shape a healthier and more resilient brain that can withstand life's challenges.

Sources: