Your Brain is like a Jungle

We often discuss the phenomenon of “creating new neural pathways” in psychotherapy. The potential to build new connections and “rewire” brain circuits offers many advantages- transforming habits, increasing self-awareness, healing unresolved memories..

But it is challenging. We as humans gravitate towards the familiar and tend to label anything foreign as “dangerous.” However, change is possible! Brains are malleable and resilient- neuroplasticity is real.

I like to think of it metaphorically. Our brain is a vast jungle. Much of it is unexplored, and our discovery is hindered by the intimidation of the thick brush. We have already established pathways within this jungle, which are comfortable; however, are likely compulsive, avoidant, and self-defeating.

Change requires courage to generate new pathways through the unexplored jungle. Invariably, along the way we will find ourselves back on our established pathways. However, commitment to returning to the new pathway (with our axe in hand to chop a path within the dense jungle) again and again will eventually cause the older, and perhaps dysfunctional, pathways to begin to overgrow and become less attractive. And, with disciplined traveling, the new pathway will become clearer, offering growth and healthy reorganization.

What depths of your jungle are worth exploring? 🐆