Mind Sweep
Now, let’s sweep the brain…
I've been considering going away with my husband, Garth. However, the excitement of a carefree weekend comes with the inner fear of leaving my cockapoo, Walter, with another human. It will be my first time.
My trustworthiness has reached a new level.
I'm familiar with this inner experience of fear of leaving my (premie) twin infant sons for the first time. Although now that I am reflecting on that physically and mentally exhausting period, I might have left my kids with the UPS driver for five minutes of silence and no one touching me.
Walter is different.
Neuroscience has shown that levels of the brain's chemical oxytocin increase when people have a higher sense of purpose and trust.
Trusting others is comforting.
So, what is oxytocin? "Oxytocin is a natural hormone that manages key aspects of the female and male reproductive systems, including labor and delivery and lactation, as well as aspects of human behavior. Your hypothalamus makes oxytocin, but your posterior pituitary gland stores and releases it into your bloodstream." Cleveland Clinic
In short:
Oxytocin = happiness.
Oxytocin = lessens the fear of trusting a stranger.
Oxytocin = increased empathy
Want to know how to release more oxytocin in your body?
- HUGS! (I knew there was a reason I loved these!)
- Massages (and these!)
- Yoga (maybe I should consider it?!)
- Listening to music (88.9 WERS, baby)
- Spend time with friends (Duh)
- Meditate (I do, several times a day!)
- Pet Dogs (Amazingly, I do get work done with Walter in my life)
And, here in lies the connection between leaving Walter and having Walter by my side at all times. He raises my oxytocin level every day!
But, increasing oxytocin levels doesn't work on its own.
Oxytocin inhibitor = High stress.
We need to feel safe, too. When we fear, the amygdala is activated (where fear is detected in our brain). Fear and mistrust feel similar.
Therefore, when we feel safe, we can be more creative and communicative and make better decisions.
- Believe in trust
- Believe in yourself
- Believe in the women willing to take your dog (baby) for the weekend (that they will love him as much as you do and also be willing to give him back!)
"The act of extending trust is an act of leadership" Stephen M.R. Covey.
Easy to say, harder to do.
Where to find me
EVERY MONDAY: 8 am - Curated Conversation - Zoom
Rescheduled for Spring 2023 - Women In Business; Creating A Strategy For Growth | Collaboration with Kim Dawson
Saturday 12/03 + Wednesday 12/07 - MindSweep Mapping for the Heart with Robin Thomas!
Have thoughts? Reply and share!
👋 My name is Jamie Chapman.
🧠I am the owner and founder of Chickbook Creative.
🔥 My consulting business draws on 25 years of product and service-based business experience.
💥 I have a multifaceted approach to problem-solving with extensive knowledge in executive functioning, habit formation, and understanding the mind of an entrepreneur.
💥 I share my financial, sales, marketing, and brand-building skills to support like-hearted business owners who value strategic growth.
🔥 What got you here won’t get you where you want to go. I can get you there.
I am a Catalyst for Change 🔥
Oh, and I'm funny 🤣
This story was originally posted HERE