January 24th, 2008
According to tests carried out since the 60's* our sensitivity to stimuli is decreasing by 1% per year. Delicate sensations are being filtered out of our consciousness. Enjoyment and aesthetic levels have dropped dramatically. 15 years ago people could distinguish 3 million sounds, today many children can't go beyond 1 million sounds. The average is 180k. 20 years ago the average subject could detect 350 different shades of a particular color. Today the number is 130.
- Why? Our environment is bombarded with high level stimuli to the point that for young brains, blocks are set up in order to buffer themselves. Ever- higher levels are then needed in order to be registered - and the vicious spiral continues.
- The power of 'No' Today's toddlers hear the word 'no'or 'don't' on average every 9 minutes from their caregiver. This is another factor in the blocking of the brain's function. It brings the onset of inhibition. Shame gets internalized, our senses numbed.
- The loud crowd As a result, many young people must have a steady input of high level stimuli or they sink into sensory isolation and anxiety. Today it appears that entire brain areas are being skipped over. Information is processed without evaluation or meaning.
- New indifference Those born before 1949 show old brain reactions. New brains, however, can tolerate extremes of dissonance or discord. They can handle contradictions in what researchers refer to as 'new indifference'. Little wonder violence is escalating. And the 1 million doses of Ritalin a day will not solve the problem.
- Coming back to our senses All of us, young and old, need to be more conscious of our senses and body wisdom to help stimulate the brain, especially for youngsters for whom pathways and patterns are being established. So, whatever modality you choose for that, just make sure it 'makes sense' to your senses!
* Studies cited in 'The Biology of Transcendence' A Blueprint of the Human Spirit by Joseph Chilton Pearce
Quick tips - How to come back to your senses
- Wherever you are, every few minutes, check in with the senses - what do you hear, see, taste, smell? How do you feel? Where is your attention drawn?
- Check in with the body regularly - are you tense anywhere? How is your posture? What is your facial expression? is your jaw tight? Are you tapping your foot? It's all information. It tells you a great deal about how you are in each moment.
- Eat fresh healthy food, and eat more slowly (preferably not with the TV on!) Savor each mouthful. Notice fragrances, colors, subtle flavors.
- Move your body - stimulate both sides of the brain with left leg right arm, left arm right leg coordinated movements.
- Introduce new smells, tastes, sounds, etc into your life. Stimulate curiosity with the senses.
- Spend time in nature (very important in children's development) Keep a journal of things that move you, inspire you, touch your heart. Notice your emotions. Respect them and learn from them.
