If I had known what I know now

We often hear this phrase. If I had known what I know now…

I confess, when I realized the impact of stress on the brain and how it absolutely cannot work in the same way at that moment, I thought “this explains it”! If I had known what I know now, I would certainly have taken steps to relax before my exams at school (from high school to university)!

“Stress eventually becomes harmful. Over time, high cortisol levels degrade the brain and other body systems. This kind of brain damage is associated with a number of health problems, including depressive and anxiety disorders, as well as memory loss and dementia.” Let’s talk science

Imagine this scene.

You’re in a large auditorium – at the theater or elsewhere – and suddenly the power goes out. What happens?

The lights go out and those that come on are just the little beacons to indicate emergency exits.

In a way, this is the same phenomenon that occurs in the brain when we’re under stress. The lights go out – the circuits that aren’t ESSENTIAL to our survival shut down – and all that’s left are tiny spotlights that shine dimly to show us which way to go.

What are “non-essential” circuits?

Just think about it. Patience, communication, concentration, a sense of humor… and that’s what will keep me alive. Nervous reflexes, more adrenalin, faster heartbeat, shorter breathing, etc.

Had I known…

I’m sure I’m not the only one to have stood in front of my exam paper and been left completely blank by questions I knew the answers to the night before! When I got to the exam room, I now realize that I was developing a higher level of stress. Hello closed circuits! Impossible to remember anything! My brain didn’t work in the same way at all!

Why am I telling you all this?

Because everyone in exam time (children and adults alike) risks experiencing this “radio silence” if they let themselves be overwhelmed by stress! The circuits won’t work as well BECAUSE OF STRESS!

Once you’re aware of the impact stress has on brain function and know the quickest way to zap stress effectively, you can change things!

You know what medium I’m talking about, don’t you? HAHAHA! YES!!! LAUGH!

So my little 5-cent tip* is to take a few minutes before entering the exam room to breathe slowly and LAUGH. For at least 3 minutes! Laugh and breathe. It’s the best way to calm your nervous system, center yourself and reset your circuits before the stressful activity.

I say it sometimes. If I had known what I know now, I might be a dentist right now! HAHAHAHAHA!

Here’s a little gift to help you.

Laughter, joy and health

Linda

*Do you know Charlie Brown? How about Lucy’s consultation counter where she charges 5 cents for her advice? See? hihihi!