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Autonomic Asymmetry & Right-Sided Tension Patterns

4/10/2025

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Implications for Manual Therapy in Stress-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders

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ABSTRACT
This commentary explores the concept of autonomic asymmetry – particularly the role of rightward hemispheric dominance in maintaining heightened sympathetic tone – and how it may contribute to lateralised tension patterns in the body. Drawing on long-term clinical observations by the author, developed over many years of osteopathic practice and during the creation of The Reaset Approach – a method prioritising body-centred autonomic regulation before addressing structural and functional somatic dysfunctions – recurring right-sided somatic dysfunctions were observed in patients presenting with suspected stress-related dysautonomia or autonomic lesions. These patterns align with theoretical models such as the Bihemispheric Autonomic Model, which links traumatic stress to hemispheric imbalance and prolonged autonomic dysregulation. If autonomic asymmetry indeed contributes to lateralised tension patterns in the body, this perspective could offer a valuable diagnostic lens – particularly for identifying stress-related musculoskeletal disorders rooted in dysautonomia or autonomic lesions. Recognising such patterns may help prevent treatment mismatch by distinguishing stress-related musculoskeletal disorders – those less likely to respond to conventional biomechanical interventions – from biomechanical disorders that do, thereby enabling a more effective therapeutic strategy to be initiated from the outset.

INTRODUCTION
The autonomic nervous system (ANS) regulates involuntary physiological functions, including, among others, cardiovascular, respiratory, and digestive processes. It also influences muscular tension, brain vascularisation, and function (Jänig, 2006). Traditionally viewed as operating symmetrically, recent research suggests a degree of lateralisation in autonomic control, with the right and left cerebral hemispheres exerting differential influences on sympathetic (SNS) and parasympathetic (PSNS) activities, respectively (Fontes et al., 2024). Understanding this asymmetry is clinically relevant for manual therapists, as it provides insights into the pathophysiology of various disorders and informs therapeutic strategies.
Somatic versus Autonomic Laterality
The brain’s motor and sensory cortices exhibit contralateral control over the body – i.e., the left hemisphere controls the right side, and vice versa. However, this laterality does not extend to the autonomic nervous system. Both SNS and PSNS efferents tend to remain uncrossed. SNS fibres emerge from the thoracolumbar spine (T1–L2) and typically innervate ipsilateral structures. Similarly, PSNS outflow originates in the brainstem – via cranial nerves III, VII, IX, and especially X (vagus) – and in the sacral spinal cord segments S2–S4. These fibres primarily innervate target organs on the same side of the body, i.e., they act largely ipsilaterally. The exception is the vagus nerve, that exerts bilateral influence in the thoracic and abdominal cavities (Bear et al., 2020; Jänig, 2006).

Hemispheric Influence on Autonomic Activity
Neuroimaging and lesion studies support the view that the left hemisphere is more involved in PSNS regulation, while the right hemisphere is more engaged in SNS arousal. Right insular lesions often reduce SNS tone, while left-sided lesions can impair PSNS function (Fontes et al., 2024). Sustained right hemispheric dominance – whether trait-based or as a state response to traumatic stress – may plausibly result in increased SNS tone on the right side of the body, due to the predominantly ipsilateral output of the ANS (Oppenheimer et al., 1992; Lee et al., 2014).

Clinical Observations of Right-Sided Tension in Stress-Related Disorders
From a manual therapy perspective, the hypothesis that right hemisphere SNS dominance contributes to heightened right-sided physiological arousal leads to several clinical considerations. This may manifest as:
  • Increased muscle tone on the right side (e.g., trapezius, rhomboids, intercostals)
  • Greater fascial tension or hypertonicity on the right
  • Altered tension within the right abdominal cavity and lumbar area
Importantly, these patterns may not always respond to traditional biomechanical treatment approaches. When such lateralised tension is driven by unresolved autonomic (stress-related) dysregulation – rather than muscle specific functional or structural problems – it may contribute to treatment resistance or recurrence of symptoms. This raises the possibility that autonomic asymmetry could serve not only as an explanatory model but also as an additional diagnostic cue to guide appropriate treatment selection and avoid mismatch between the underlying cause and the therapeutic method.
BHAM and the Hypothesis of Peripheral Autonomic Manifestation

The Bihemispheric Autonomic Model (BHAM) offers a theoretical framework for understanding how traumatic stress can lead to asymmetrical brain activation and prolonged autonomic imbalance (Lee et al., 2014). According to BHAM, rightward hemispheric dominance represents an adaptive short-term response that, if sustained, may become maladaptive – contributing to chronic stress-related disorders and maladaptive coping behaviours.
While BHAM focuses on trauma-induced rightward dominance, it is important to consider that chronic and psychosocial stressors may also contribute to prolonged autonomic asymmetry. Persistent SNS activation in response to environmental pressures, unresolved emotional conflicts, or systemic stress can gradually shift a temporary state into a functional trait, reinforcing right hemisphere dominance and right-sided physiological tension. This further supports the need for clinical approaches that address both the psychophysiological state and the body’s structural response to stress.

Given the widespread influence of the ANS throughout the body, it is plausible that such hemispheric dominance may also manifest peripherally, with functional changes appearing more prominently on one side than the other. This hypothesis resonates with clinical patterns observed by the author over many years of osteopathic practice and during the development of The Reaset Approach – a method that prioritises body-centred autonomic regulation before addressing structural and functional somatic dysfunctions (Meyers, 2014, 2019). In patients presenting with stress-related dysautonomia or suspected autonomic lesions, recurring right-sided tension patterns have been consistently noted. These include increased sensitivity or restriction in areas such as the right occiput and upper cervical spine (C0–C2), the maxillary region (particularly near the infraorbital foramen), the right thorax and abdomen, and the right psoas muscle.
While these observations are exploratory in nature, they raise important questions about the relationship between hemispheric dominance, autonomic asymmetry, and lateralised somatic dysfunction. Further investigation into these patterns may contribute to the development of diagnostic tools for identifying autonomic dysfunction within manual therapy practice and inform more targeted and effective treatment strategies. This is particularly relevant in cases of stress-related musculoskeletal disorders, where dysautonomia or underlying autonomic lesions may be contributing factors. Such conditions often do not respond adequately to conventional biomechanical models, highlighting the need for an integrated approach that considers autonomic regulation as a central component of care.
In this light, recognising autonomic asymmetry in musculoskeletal presentations may help manual therapists distinguish cases more likely to benefit from autonomic-centred interventions as a first step, before applying biomechanical approaches. Integrating this lens could reduce ineffective treatments and support more accurate therapeutic targeting.
CONCLUSION
Autonomic asymmetry presents a clinically relevant framework through which persistent, lateralised musculoskeletal tension patterns may be interpreted – particularly in individuals presenting with stress-related dysautonomia or autonomic lesions. The uncrossed nature of autonomic outflow, coupled with hemispheric dominance, offers a potential explanation for observed right-sided dysfunctions in chronic SNS arousal.
Over years of clinical practice and development of The Reaset Approach, patterns of right-sided tension – affecting the cranial base, thorax, abdomen and pelvis area – have emerged repeatedly in patients with autonomic imbalance. While these findings are anecdotal, they align with recent neurophysiological insights and may contribute to an evolving clinical narrative.
Manual therapy approaches that prioritise body-centred autonomic regulation may be uniquely suited to address such imbalances. Continued interdisciplinary research is encouraged to validate these clinical insights and to deepen our understanding of the complex relationship between hemispheric regulation, the autonomic nervous system, and somatic expression. A practitioner-informed perspective, integrated with contemporary neuroscience, can help bridge the gap between research and therapeutic application. Moreover, it may offer a valuable diagnostic lens for recognising stress-related musculoskeletal disorders that stem from autonomic dysfunction – helping practitioners prevent treatment mismatch and offer immediately a more effective therapeutic strategy.

REFERENCES
Bear, M. F., Connors, B. W., & Paradiso, M. A. (2020). Neuroscience: Exploring the brain (4th ed.). Wolters Kluwer.

Fontes, E. B., Oliveira-Silva, I., & Machado, D. G. (2024). Neurovisceral integration and hemispheric asymmetry: Implications for autonomic control. Journal of Neuroscience Research, 102(1), 15–29. https://doi.org/10.1002/jnr.25202

Fontes, M. A. P., Machado, L. R. dos S., Viana, A. C. R., Cruz, M. H., Nogueira, Í. S., Oliveira, M. G. L., Neves, C. B., Godoy, A. C. V., Henderson, L. A., & Macefield, V. G. (2024). The insular cortex, autonomic asymmetry and cardiovascular control: Looking at the right side of stroke. Clinical Autonomic Research, 34, 549–560. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10286-024-01066-9

Jänig, W. (2006). The integrative action of the autonomic nervous system: Neurobiology of homeostasis. Cambridge University Press. https://doi.org/10.1017/CBO9780511544823

Lee, S. W., Gerdes, L., Tegeler, C. L., Shaltout, H. A., & Tegeler, C. H. (2014). A bihemispheric autonomic model for traumatic stress effects on health and behavior. Frontiers in Psychology, 5, 843. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2014.00843

Meyers, T. (2014). The effect of the Reaset Approach on the autonomic nervous system, state-trait anxiety and musculoskeletal pain in patients with work-related stress: A pilot study (PDF) https://bit.ly/3yoleh6

Meyers, T. (2019). The effect of the “Reaset Approach” on the autonomic nervous system, neck-shoulder pain, state-trait anxiety and perceived stress in office workers: A randomised controlled trial. (PDF) https://bit.ly/3AGyK2H

Oppenheimer, S. M., Gelb, A., Girvin, J. P., & Hachinski, V. C. (1992). Cardiovascular effects of human insular cortex stimulation. Neurology, 42(9), 1727–1732. https://doi.org/10.1212/WNL.42.9.1727


Rechberger, V., Biberschick, M., & Porthun, J. (2019). Effectiveness of an osteopathic treatment on the autonomic nervous system: A systematic review of the literature. European Journal of Medical Research, 24(36). https://doi.org/10.1186/s40001-019-0394-5

Roura, S., Álvarez, G., Solà, I., & Cerritelli, F. (2021). Do manual therapies have a specific autonomic effect? An overview of systematic reviews. PLOS ONE, 16(12), e0260642. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0260642


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We Can Fear the Future or Steer It Purposefully: It’s Y’our Call!

12/6/2024

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In our fast-changing world, an unspoken fear lingers in many minds: Are we ready for what’s coming? The rapid pace of technological advancement, societal upheaval, and environmental challenges has left many feeling overwhelmed, uncertain, and disconnected. This anxiety often remains unspoken, yet it shapes our behaviour, relationships, and health. But what if we could face the future not with fear, but with purpose? What if we could adapt, flourish, and thrive in this evolving world by addressing the biopsychosocial and evolutionary roots of the crises we face? This is the vision behind Homo Evolopsis—the self-evolving human—a term I coined to explore how humanity must intentionally evolve to navigate the complexities of our rapidly changing world with clarity, resilience, and purpose, and to define my role in fostering this transformation.
The Hidden Fear: Losing Control in a World of Change

Beneath the surface of modern life lies a growing unease. As technology accelerates, the climate shifts, and social tensions escalate, many people feel they’re being swept along by forces they can’t control.

1. Technology: Will AI and automation replace our value as humans?

Solution: Building resilience helps us adapt to technological shifts, ensuring we see change not as a threat but as an opportunity to innovate and thrive.

2. Stress: How do we cope with the endless demands of modern life?

Solution: Cultivating a sense of purpose gives us clarity and direction, enabling us to navigate stress with intention rather than being overwhelmed by it.

3. Climate Crisis: Are we powerless to stop the environmental degradation threatening our future?

Solution: By reconnecting with ourselves and others, we can foster sustainable behaviours that align with the well-being of humanity and the planet.

4. Social Upheaval: How do we navigate increasing polarisation, inequality, and instability?

Solution: Taking purposeful action allows us to move beyond fear and into collaborative solutions for the collective challenges we face.

These concerns, though daunting, are not insurmountable. When we strengthen our resilience, live with purpose, reconnect with ourselves, and act with intention, we can meet these challenges head-on, building a future where humanity flourishes and thrives.

A Solution Rooted in Intentional Evolution

We don’t have to be passive participants in this fast-changing world. Instead, we can take an active role in shaping our future—both individually and collectively. This is the essence of Homo Evolopsis: the deliberate process of evolving with intention and purpose. It is about embracing personal growth, adaptability, and progress not just for survival but for thriving in an ever-changing world.
Intentional evolution involves strengthening key pillars that guide us through uncertainty:

  • Resilience: Building the capacity to adapt to change without losing balance.
  • Purpose: Living with clarity about who we are and where we’re going.
  • Connection: Reuniting the body and mind to navigate challenges with ease.
  • Action: Recognising that our internal states—our stress, fear, and disconnection—are deeply linked to external crises like climate change and societal unrest.

At the heart of these pillars lie Futurizing Yourself and The Reaset Approach. Futurizing Yourself provides the mental anchor that strengthens resilience and guides purposeful action. By fostering a stronger connection with your future self, it helps align today’s decisions with long-term aspirations, empowering individuals to navigate change with clarity and intention.

The Reaset Approach, on the other hand, is an innovative manual therapy method designed for manual therapists to incorporate into their treatments. It helps individuals re-establish balance within their autonomic nervous system, fostering a state of ease and connection that supports resilience and well-being.

Together, these approaches offer the biopsychosocial and spiritual support needed to flourish and thrive in a fast-changing world, contributing to the evolution of Homo Evolopsis—the self-evolving human.

The Four Essential Needs in a Changing World

1. Resilience

The Challenge: As the pace of change accelerates, people often feel unprepared to adapt without becoming overwhelmed. Stress and uncertainty erode mental, emotional, and physical balance, leaving individuals vulnerable to burnout.

The Solution: Futurizing Yourself helps people build the capacity to adapt to change while staying grounded. This involves forward-thinking practices that align vision, values, and actions with the demands of a rapidly changing environment. By consciously shaping your approach to the future, you cultivate resilience and a calm adaptability.

2. Purpose

The Challenge: Many people feel lost in the noise of modern life, disconnected from their values and uncertain about their direction. Without clarity about who we are and where we’re going, we struggle to make meaningful decisions.

The Solution: Futurizing Yourself provides tools for living with clarity and intention. By exploring your potential and defining your goals in alignment with your values, you can navigate the future with confidence and a strong sense of purpose. This empowers you to flourish and thrive, even in times of uncertainty.

3. Connection

The Challenge: Disconnection from our bodies, minds, and emotions is increasingly common in a world of overstimulation, digital distractions, and relentless demands. This fragmentation makes it harder to navigate challenges or feel at ease.

The Solution: A treatment including The Reaset Approach re-establishes the vital connection between the body and mind. By focusing on reasetting the eANS, this method fosters balance and harmony, helping individuals to feel grounded and whole. A connected body-mind system is better equipped to handle life’s complexities with ease.

4. Action

The Challenge: Stress, fear, and disconnection prevent us from addressing larger external crises, such as climate change and societal unrest. When overwhelmed by internal struggles, we lose the clarity and capacity to act meaningfully.

The Solution: A treatment with The Reaset Approach empowers individuals to recalibrate their autonomic nervous system, alleviating pain and restoring balance. This renewed state of ease fosters clear thinking and a sense of agency, enabling effective engagement with external challenges. At the same time, Futurizing Yourself aligns today’s actions with long-term aspirations, helping individuals approach external crises with vision and purpose. When we take action with calm, connection, and clarity, we contribute to collective solutions like climate resilience, social harmony, and sustainable living.

Together, Futurizing Yourself and The Reaset Approach form a comprehensive framework for intentional evolution. This vision, embodied by Homo Evolopsis, empowers humanity to take control of its future.

Resilience and Purpose: Emphasising Self-Continuity

Resilience today is about more than bouncing back—it’s about bouncing forward. To do this, we must connect with our future selves. When we feel a strong sense of self-continuity, we’re more likely to invest in decisions that benefit us long-term.

For example, imagine your future self thriving in a world shaped by rapid change. How do you feel? What habits, relationships, or goals brought you there? This connection fosters emotional endurance and motivates actions today that align with your vision for tomorrow.
Similarly, a sense of purpose strengthens resilience by anchoring us to our values. When we align our present decisions with our future aspirations, we gain clarity and confidence. By futurizing yourself—actively envisioning your future self—you create a mental bridge that empowers you to make intentional choices in the present.

Connection and Action: The Wellbeing of Y’our Health

As we stand on the brink of unprecedented change, the question is not just how we will survive, but how we will flourish and thrive. To address the external crises we face—climate change, social instability, and the uncertainty of the future—we must first recognise their deep connection to our internal states.

A stressed and disconnected humanity remains trapped in survival mode, unable to think clearly about the future or its role in shaping it. In this state, the parts of the brain responsible for reasoning, planning, and envisioning the collective good are offline. However, a humanity grounded in ease, balance, and purpose can rise to the challenge. When balance is restored within, our capacity to think critically and act intentionally is reawakened.

Before we can futurize ourselves, we must first cultivate internal balance. This foundation allows us to approach the future with clarity, resilience, and the readiness to take meaningful action.

Navigate the challenges of the 21st century

We have a choice to make:

  • To let the tides of technology, environmental crises, and social changes dictate our path.
  • Or to take control, shaping our evolution with purpose, values, and humanity at the forefront.

We once shaped our environment to suit our needs; now, our environment compels us to reshape ourselves. By fostering conversations about our future—not from a perspective of fear, but from a place of intention and aspiration—we can focus on what we truly want, who we want to be, and who we wish to become. By minding our body before it reminds us and intentionally carrying it into the future, we can help humanity navigate this transition with greater ease. Not by becoming technology, but by learning to use it wisely. Not by succumbing to fear, but by acting with clarity, purpose, and connection.

A Call to Action: Questions to Shape Y’our Future

As we move forward, the question isn’t just how to survive the changes ahead—it’s how to thrive with intention, clarity, and connection. To begin shaping your future and humanity’s shared path, I invite you to reflect deeply and ask yourself:

  • What do I want for myself—and for humanity?
  • Who do I want to be in this evolving world?
  • Am I living in alignment with my aspirations?
  • How do I feel—right now?
  • What action can I take today to connect with my future self?

These questions are your compass to intentional evolution. And as you reflect on them, ask yourself one final, pivotal question:

“What is one small step you can take today to create a future you’re proud to live in?”

Resilience, purpose, connection, and action are not abstract ideals—they are the practical keys to thriving in a fast-changing world. By asking the right questions and fostering clarity about who we are and who we want to become, we can shape a future that reflects our highest values. This is the essence of Homo Evolopsis—intentional evolution for individuals and humanity.

The Power of Intentional Evolution

Resilience, purpose, connection, and action are not abstract ideals; they are practical, actionable steps we can take to navigate a world that demands adaptability. The future isn’t something that happens to us; it’s something we create. By transforming ourselves, we lay the foundation for transforming our communities, societies, and planet.

Intentional evolution isn’t just about individual well-being—it’s about building a future where humanity thrives together. This is the essence of Homo Evolopsis: intentional evolution for individuals and humanity.

Let us face the future not with fear, but with purpose. Let us shape the future not through reaction, but through thoughtful action. And let us build a future not just for ourselves, but for all who come after us.


This article was written by Tom Meyers with the assistance of ChatGPT, blending personal insights and advanced AI support to create a compelling and impactful message.
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Has COVID-19 Slowed us Down?

10/8/2024

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I recently read that COVID-19 has left broader, lingering effects on the population. Research shows that many people who’ve had COVID-19 are now more prone to illness and recurrent health issues. However, these cases don’t qualify as long COVID, where symptoms persist over a prolonged period after infection.

In a flash, it dawned on me: from a certain perspective, COVID-19 has slowed us down—delaying recovery, tampering with our immune systems, affecting cognitive function, and reducing our capacity to adapt and manage change. And this is happening at a time when we need adaptability the most.

While our evolutionary pace has slowed, technology continues to accelerate the rate of environmental change. In my mind’s eye, I could see how the conflict between biology and culture is worsening, rather than closing.

I’m not a scientist but a practitioner. I hear from my patients how they feel less resilient and more prone to illness without a clear reason. They regularly develop musculoskeletal problems and other health issues, including mental health struggles, without fully understanding why.

Could it be that our biological resistance has slowed, while our stress response becomes more active in defence?
References
Ma, Y., Deng, J., Liu, Q., Du, M., Liu, M., & Liu, J. (2022). Long-Term Consequences of COVID-19 at 6 Months and Above: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. International journal of environmental research and public health, 19(11), 6865. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19116865
Li, Z., Zhang, Z., Zhang, Z., Wang, Z., & Li, H. (2023). Cognitive impairment after long COVID-19: current evidence and perspectives. Frontiers in neurology, 14, 1239182. https://doi.org/10.3389/fneur.2023.1239182
Li, H., Zhuang, S., Lin, Y., Huang, M., Zhang, W., Zhang, X., Lin, Y., & Zhang, C. (2024). The impact of COVID-19 infection on musculoskeletal pain and its associating factors: a cross-sectional study. Frontiers in public health, 12, 1422659. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpubh.2024.1422659

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Exploring Multiple Myodural Bridges Throughout the Cervical Spine

9/29/2024

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Beyond the Expected: Exploring Multiple Myodural Bridges Throughout the Cervical Spine and Their Role in Health and Disease

By Tom Meyers (Belgium, Osteopath D.O., Body-centred Stress Coach, Founder of The Reaset Approach and Author of Futurize Yourself and The Futures Effect.

Abstract

The concept of the myodural bridge has traditionally been limited to the connection between the sub-occipital muscles, the posterior atlantooccipital membrane, and the cervical dura mater. However, new observations suggest that these anatomical connections may extend throughout the entire cervical spine, involving multiple cervical muscles beyond those commonly discussed. This expanded understanding could have significant implications for health, particularly in managing stress-related disorders, chronic neck pain, and cervicogenic headaches. Further research into the presence of multiple myodural bridges at different cervical levels is recommended to confirm their existence and clinical relevance. Their role, particularly in stress-related conditions, may prove to be valuable in the treatment of a wide range of disorders that are currently classified as medically unexplained.

Introduction

For years, the myodural bridge has been described as a specialised anatomical connection with the dura mater located between the occiput and atlas (C0-C1) and occiput and axis (C0-C2). This relationship has primarily garnered interest in the context of cervicogenic headaches and upper cervical biomechanics. Recent research has also highlighted the crucial role of the posterior atlanto-occipital membrane (PAOM), which serves as a critical anchor for these bridges and merges with the craniocervical dura to stabilise the cervical region.

However, during a visit to the Body Worlds exhibition in Amsterdam, osteopath D.O. MSc Tom Meyers observed, while examining plastinated bodies, that these dural connections were not confined to the upper cervical region but appeared to extend throughout the cervical spine, involving other structures that had not previously been associated with myodural bridges. If so, these myodural bridges may have broader clinical relevance than previously thought, particularly, Meyers believes, in the management of stress-related disorders, chronic neck pain, and other neuromusculoskeletal conditions. This discovery calls for further research and may lead to new insights into medically unexplained symptoms, as well as new therapeutic applications.

New Anatomical Insights: Extending Beyond the Sub-Occipital Region

Beyond the Expected: Multiple Myodural Bridges Throughout the Cervical Spine
While the classical view of myodural bridges focuses on their connection to sub-occipital muscles such as the rectus capitis posterior minor and major, as well as the obliquus capitis superior and inferior, it is possible that other neck muscles, such as the semispinalis capitis and multifidus (extending from C2 to C7), also connect directly or indirectly to the dura mater.
Furthermore, the posterior atlanto-occipital membrane (PAOM) plays a critical role in this network. Research shows that the PAOM merges with the craniocervical dura, extending to the C3 level, forming a membrane-dura complex that stabilises the cervical dura mater beyond the classical C1-C2 region.

It is also possible that the dural bridges observed in the lower neck are not related to muscular structures but to fascial structures or, for example, the ligamentum nuchae, a prominent structure in the cervical spine.

The potential direct or indirect influence on dural tension through fascial or ligamentous connections should be further researched or, at the very least, considered in discussions of myodural dynamics, particularly in the lower cervical levels, where traditional myodural bridges might not be as prominent.

Why Further Research is Needed for Stress-Related Disorders

Stress is a major contributor to musculoskeletal dysfunction, particularly in the cervical region. Prolonged stress causes muscle tension, which, in turn, can affect the function of myodural bridges, potentially leading to symptoms such as headaches, neck pain, and even dizziness. By examining these bridges in the context of stress-related disorders, we could better understand how chronic tension impacts the dura mater and nervous system. Therapeutic approaches such as osteopathic manipulative techniques, The Reaset Approach, and craniosacral therapy could be refined to target these myodural connections, offering patients relief from stress-induced symptoms.

Clinical Implications of the Newly Identified Myodural Bridges

Cervicogenic Headaches and Migraines
With the recognition that myodural bridges are not limited to the C0-C1 region, it becomes clear that cervicogenic headaches and migraines might have a more complex origin involving dural tension across multiple cervical levels. This expanded understanding allows for more precise and effective treatments that address tension and dysfunction along the entire cervical spine.

Chronic Neck Pain and Postural Syndromes
Chronic neck pain is often associated with muscular imbalances and poor posture, both of which may exacerbate tension in myodural bridges. Recognising their widespread presence throughout the cervical spine suggests that treatments focusing on the entire cervical musculature, rather than just the sub-occipital region, may be more effective in relieving persistent pain.

Stress-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders
Stress often manifests as tension in the neck and shoulders. With multiple myodural bridges potentially involved in transmitting that tension to the dura mater, understanding how to treat these structures could significantly improve outcomes for patients suffering from stress-related conditions. Manual therapies that release tension in these muscles and bridges may reduce the frequency and severity of stress-induced headaches and neck pain.

Potential Role in Long COVID Symptoms
Although speculative, it is possible that chronic inflammation and muscle tension seen in Long COVID could affect myodural bridges, particularly given their role in regulating cerebrospinal fluid flow and dural tension. Future research might uncover connections between these structures and the neurological symptoms of Long COVID, such as brain fog, headaches, dizziness/vertigo, altered sensory perception, tinnitus, cervical dizziness, tension-type headache, cervical radiculopathy, restricted range of motion, and occipital neuralgia.

Conclusion

The discovery that dural bridges extend beyond the known C1-C3 levels and potentially involve all cervical levels challenges the traditional anatomical view. Recognising the possibility of these myodural, or at least ligamentous, bridges existing in the lower segments of the cervical spine opens up new avenues for understanding their role in both health and disease. From cervicogenic headaches to stress-related disorders, these structures may play a crucial role in influencing dural tension and cervical biomechanics.
Further research is necessary to explore their full clinical relevance, particularly in managing medically unexplained symptoms and conditions associated with chronic stress.
And perhaps, as this observation by Meyers is further validated, these structures might even be referred to in the future as “Meyers Bridges”—it would be a fitting tribute. However, the broader message would be that keen observation is something everyone can engage in, and meaningful contributions to science are not restricted to scientists alone.
References

Alix, M. E., & Bates, D. K. (1999). A proposed etiology of cervicogenic headache: the neurophysiologic basis and anatomic relationship between the dura mater and the rectus posterior capitis minor muscle. Journal of manipulative and physiological therapeutics, 22(8), 534–539. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0161-4754(99)70006-0

Enix, D. E., Scali, F., & Pontell, M. E. (2014). The cervical myodural bridge, a review of literature and clinical implications. The Journal of the Canadian Chiropractic Association, 58(2), 184–192.
Humphreys, B. K., Kenin, S., Hubbard, B. B., & Cramer, G. D. (2003). Investigation of connective tissue attachments to the cervical spinal dura mater. Clinical anatomy (New York, N.Y.), 16(2), 152–159. https://doi.org/10.1002/ca.10109

Humphreys, B. K. (2008). Cervical Dural Attachments: An Anatomic Study. The Journal of Manual & Manipulative Therapy, 16(3), E1-E8.

Mitchell, B. S., Humphreys, B. K., & O'Sullivan, E. (1998). Attachments of the ligamentum nuchae to cervical posterior spinal dura and the lateral part of the occipital bone. Journal of manipulative and physiological therapeutics, 21(3), 145–148.

Scali, F., Pontell, M. E., Enix, D. E., & Marshall, E. (2011). Histological Analysis of the Rectus Capitis Posterior Minor’s Myodural Bridge. Clinical Anatomy, 24(7), 933-937.

Scali, F., Enix, D. E., Pontell, M. E. (2013). The Myodural Bridge: A Review of Literature and Clinical Implications. The Journal of the American Osteopathic Association, 113(8), 623-633.
Scali, F., Ohno, A., Enix, D., & Hassan, S. (2022). The Posterior Atlantooccipital Membrane: The Anchor for the Myodural Bridge and Meningovertebral Structures. Cureus, 14(5), e25484. https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.25484

Song, X., Yu, S. B., Yuan, X. Y., Alam Shah, M. A., Li, C., Chi, Y. Y., Zheng, N., & Sui, H. J. (2024). Evidence for chronic headaches induced by pathological changes of myodural bridge complex. Scientific reports, 14(1), 5285. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-024-55069-7
As the body of research grows, and as the clinical significance of the myodural bridges becomes more apparent, it is likely that they will receive greater attention in both medical education and practice. Increasing awareness of these structures could lead to improved diagnostic and therapeutic approaches.
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Insights into stress, dysautonomia, mast cell activation syndrome and Long COVID

8/22/2024

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Exploring New Frontiers in Long COVID-19
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As a manual therapist, teacher, and trainer, I am constantly seeking new ways to deepen my understanding of the human body and mind to better address the complex challenges our patients face. One of the most significant challenges that has emerged in recent years is long COVID-19. While I’ve developed a solid understanding of this condition, I recently came across a video by Dr. Denef, a local doctor here in Brussels who personally battled long COVID. Her journey has since led her to specialise in helping others suffering from this debilitating illness.

In her video, Dr. Denef mentioned Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS), a term that, like her (as she explained in the video), I was initially unfamiliar with. This piqued my interest and led me to explore MCAS in more depth, particularly how it might connect to stress—an area that is not only central to my work but also to the experiences of many long COVID-19 patients.

What is Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS)?

MCAS is a condition where certain immune cells, known as mast cells, become overly sensitive and release excessive inflammatory substances like histamine and cytokines. These cells are present throughout the body—in the skin, lungs, digestive system, and other areas. When they become overactive, they can cause a wide range of symptoms, including skin rashes, digestive problems, heart palpitations, and breathing difficulties.

In the context of long COVID-19, MCAS has garnered attention because its symptoms often resemble those seen in long COVID—such as extreme fatigue, brain fog, and persistent pain. Dr. Denef’s video highlighted how long COVID-19 might exacerbate or even trigger MCAS in some individuals, leading to a complex and challenging set of symptoms.

The Link Between MCAS, Stress, and Long COVID-19

As someone who has extensively studied and worked with stress, I found the potential link between MCAS and stress in long COVID-19 particularly compelling. Stress is not just a psychological issue; it has profound effects on the entire body. When a patient is under stress, their body’s stress response activates, engaging both the autonomic nervous system and the hormone-producing glands. This leads to the release of cortisol and other stress hormones, which can increase mast cell activity, potentially worsening MCAS.

For patients dealing with long COVID-19, the ongoing stress of managing persistent symptoms, combined with the impact of the virus on the immune system, can create a vicious cycle. Stress aggravates MCAS, which in turn exacerbates long COVID-19 symptoms, leading to even more stress—a cycle that can be incredibly difficult to break.

How The Reaset Approach Can Help

Understanding the connection between MCAS, stress, and long COVID-19 is crucial, especially since long COVID is also associated with dysautonomia, a dysfunction of the autonomic nervous system where the stress response remains activated. This persistent activation means that mast cells may continue to be overactive, making it challenging for traditional treatments to achieve the desired outcomes.

This is where The Reaset Approach, a method I’ve developed over nearly 20 years, can make a significant impact. The Reaset Approach is designed to reaset the body’s stress response through an integrative, body-centred, hands-on treatment modality. By addressing the root causes of stress and helping the body regain balance, we can reduce mast cell overactivity and alleviate other stress-related symptoms.

For example, in patients experiencing dysautonomia and MCAS as part of their long COVID-19 experience, The Reaset Approach can help calm the nervous system, lower stress hormone levels, and support natural healing processes. This approach is about more than just symptom management; it’s about empowering patients to take control of their health and well-being.

Conclusion
As manual therapists, it’s essential to stay open to new ideas and approaches, particularly when facing complex and evolving conditions like long COVID-19. Dr. Denef’s insights into MCAS have expanded my understanding of how these conditions are interconnected with stress and how they can perpetuate one another.

Long COVID-19, health, and healing are multifaceted challenges, but together we can make a difference by offering a more integrated and comprehensive strategy to support patient recovery.

My role, through The Reaset Approach, is to reaset the body’s stress response by addressing the root causes that may be keeping patients trapped in a cycle of discomfort and illness. This includes calming the autonomic nervous system and regulating hormonal and vascular processes in both the body and brain, which will positively impact the physical aspects of long COVID-19—such as headaches, muscular and digestive disorders, brain fog, dizziness, cardiovascular problems, temperature dysregulation, cognitive delays, and mental and behavioural symptoms like irritability—while reducing stress-related inflammation.

If you’re interested in learning more about this holistic approach and how it can be applied to your practice, or if you’re considering becoming a student, I’m here to share my knowledge and guide you on this path to better understanding and treating long COVID-19 and related conditions.
References:
- https://drdenef.com/covid-long
- https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s12035-021-02696-0
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10166245
- https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1201971221007517
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Treatment Mismatch: Addressing the Evolving Nature of Musculoskeletal Disorders

7/18/2024

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In the 21st century, healthcare professionals are witnessing a growing trend of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) that no longer respond effectively to traditional treatment methods. This phenomenon, which I term "treatment mismatch," arises from the rapid and profound changes in our environment and lifestyle. Understanding this concept is crucial for developing more effective therapeutic strategies that address the modern aetiology of these disorders.

The Evolutionary Mismatch

To comprehend the treatment mismatch, we must first explore the concept of evolutionary mismatch. For 99% of our evolutionary history, humans lived as hunter-gatherers in small, nomadic groups. This lifestyle, deeply intertwined with nature, shaped our physiology and behaviour. Our bodies evolved to respond to acute, short-term stressors with the fight-or-flight response, a mechanism designed to handle immediate physical threats.
However, the last 10,000 years have seen a dramatic shift. We transitioned from a nomadic lifestyle to agrarian societies, then to industrialised cities, and now to an information age characterised by rapid technological advancement. These changes have occurred so quickly that our physiological adaptations have not had time to keep pace. As a result, our stress response, once advantageous for survival, has become maladaptive in the face of chronic, psychosocial stressors such as work overload, social pressures, and the constant connectivity of modern life.

The Rise of Psychosocial Stressors

In today's world, many MSDs are not caused by physical trauma but by psychosocial stress. Chronic stress, job insecurity, fear of change, and even frustrations like an internet outage trigger the same physical stress response our ancestors used to deal with immediate threats. This includes neurohormonal changes that tense muscles, alter vascularisation, and redistribute nutrients—all of which are inappropriate for addressing the subtler, chronic challenges of the modern environment.

Traditional Treatments and Their Limitations

Traditional treatment methods for MSDs, developed in the 19th and 20th centuries, were primarily designed to address biomechanical issues resulting from physical trauma. These methods include manual therapies, physical exercises, and ergonomic adjustments that focus on correcting mechanical dysfunctions and alleviating pain through physical means.

While these treatments can be effective for conditions with a clear biomechanical origin, they often fall short in addressing MSDs driven by chronic stress and psychosocial factors. This is the crux of the treatment mismatch: therapies that worked well for the health problems of the past are less effective for the stress-related disorders prevalent today.

Addressing the Treatment Mismatch

To bridge this gap, manual therapists and healthcare professionals must adopt a more integral approach that integrates the understanding of psychosocial stressors and their impact on physical health. Here are several strategies to consider:

  1. Integral Assessment: Evaluate patients not only for biomechanical issues but also for psychosocial stressors. Understanding the broader context of a patient's life can provide insights into the underlying causes of their MSDs.
  2. Stress Management Techniques: Incorporate autonomic nervous system balancing methods, like The Reaset Approach, into treatment plans. Techniques that modulate the stress response and reduce its impact on the musculoskeletal system should be applied first, before treating overcompensations and the biomechanical dysfunction(s) themselves.
  3. Patient Education: Educate patients about the role of stress in their condition and teach them self-management strategies. Empowering patients with knowledge and tools to manage stress can enhance the effectiveness of their treatment.
  4. Adaptive Therapeutic Practices: Stay informed about the latest research and developments in the field of psychosocial health. Incorporate evidence-based practices that address the evolving nature of MSDs into your therapeutic repertoire.

Conclusion

The concept of treatment mismatch highlights the need for a paradigm shift in how we approach musculoskeletal disorders. By recognising the role of psychosocial stressors and adopting holistic, interdisciplinary strategies, we can develop more effective treatments that are attuned to the realities of modern life. Addressing this mismatch is essential for improving patient outcomes and promoting long-term health and wellbeing in the 21st century.
References
  1. European Agency for Safety and Health at Work (2021). Musculoskeletal disorders: association with psychosocial risk factors at work - Literature review. Publications Office of the European Union.
  2. Manus M. B. (2018). Evolutionary mismatch. Evolution, medicine, and public health, 2018(1), 190–191. https://doi.org/10.1093/emph/eoy023
  3. Sapolsky, R. M. (2004). Why Zebras Don't Get Ulcers. Stress Response and Modern Stressors. Holt Paperbacks.
  4. Meyers, T. (2024). The Rise in Stress-related Physical and Mental Health Problems in the 21st Century: A conflict between biology and culture?


By understanding and addressing the treatment mismatch, we can better serve our patients and adapt to the changing landscape of musculoskeletal health.
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If there is no Free Will how can there be a Placebo Effect?

6/16/2024

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Recently I've been reflecting on Dr. Robert Sapolsky’s views on free will. A subject he as described in his book "Determined: A Science of Life without Free Will" where he argues that free will is an illusion, positing that our choices and behaviours are entirely determined by biological and environmental factors beyond our control. I can follow his reasoning but then I got to wonder about how where the placebo effect would fit in his theory. This can seem paradoxical at first glance, but seems they can be reconciled.

It was my believe that the placebo effect typically involved some level of expectation or belief influencing physiological outcomes, which might initially seem to require an act of free will. But if free will is an illusion, as Dr Sapolsky argues, then understanding how a placebo effect can still occur under determinism becomes an interesting puzzle... well I thought so anyway 😅

Understanding the Paradox
Mind as a Product of the Body:
  • Sapolsky’s Perspective: Sapolsky argues that what we perceive as “mind” and “free will” are deeply rooted in the biological processes of the brain. Our decisions and behaviours are influenced by a complex interplay of genetics, neurobiology, and environmental factors.
  • Implication: This means that our thoughts, beliefs, and expectations—key components of the placebo effect—are shaped by underlying biological mechanisms.

Placebo Effect:
  • Mechanisms: The placebo effect occurs when an individual experiences a real improvement in their condition after receiving a treatment with no therapeutic value. This improvement is due to the individual’s belief in the efficacy of the treatment.
  • Biological Basis: Research shows that the placebo effect can activate specific neural pathways in the brain that release neurotransmitters like endorphins and dopamine, which can alleviate symptoms and improve health.

Reconciling the Two Concepts

Belief and Expectation as Biological Phenomena:
  • No Contradiction: If our beliefs and expectations are products of our brain’s biology, then the placebo effect fits within Sapolsky’s framework. The mind’s ability to influence the body through beliefs and expectations does not contradict the idea that these mental states are biologically determined.
  • Neural Processes: The belief in the effectiveness of a placebo triggers biological processes in the brain that can result in physical changes, such as pain relief or reduced anxiety.
Automatic and Unconscious Processes:
  • Non-Conscious Influence: Much of what drives the placebo effect happens automatically and unconsciously. The brain’s response to a placebo is not a matter of conscious choice but rather an automatic response to perceived cues.
  • Learned Associations: The effectiveness of placebos can be partly explained by learned associations. For instance, if taking a pill has historically been associated with feeling better, the brain may automatically initiate healing processes when a placebo pill is taken, based on prior experience.

Supporting Sources

  1. Sapolsky, R. M. (2023). Determined: A Science of Life without Free Will: An insightful masterpiece that delves deep into the complexities of human behavior and the intricate workings of the brain.
  2. Sapolsky, R. M. (2017). Behave: The Biology of Humans at Our Best and Worst: Sapolsky discusses how complex behaviors and mental states are deeply rooted in biological processes.
  3. Harvard Health Publishing: Provides detailed explanations of how the placebo effect works and its biological underpinnings.
  4. American Psychological Association (APA): Discusses the psychological mechanisms behind the placebo effect and its implications for health and treatment.
This article was written with the assistance of ChatGPT, but it represents my ideas, ensuring a blend of my scientifically informed insights and advanced AI support to bring it all together.
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Understanding the Body-Mind Loop and How We Can Influence Change

6/13/2024

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This is a work in progress based on my own thoughts and those of Professor R. Sapolsky’s books, including his latest, “Determined”, as well as A. Damasio’s “The Strange Order of Things” and elements of evolutionary and developmental mismatch theories.

The purpose of this simplified diagram is to gain a better understanding of whether and how we can evolve on purpose to better adapt and manage change. It illustrates the continuous body-mind loop where our body’s neuronal and molecular mechanisms, influenced by genetics, environmental factors, and individual experiences, govern our behaviour. Behavioural changes affect cognition, which in turn shapes the mind. The mind’s decisions, choices, and actions then alter the environment, creating new experiences that continue to influence our body’s mechanisms. Throughout this process, feelings are generated and play a crucial role at each stage.

At the moment, our rising “ biological footprint ” — a term I coined to capture the impact of our lifestyle, environment, and actions on our biological systems — is making us sick.
By understanding the interconnected elements of my illustration, I hope you/we can better comprehend what is happening and why, but also gain insights into how you/we can purposefully change or stimulate a process of evolving on purpose (evolopsis).

How do you feel about this? For example, by reading this, your body has created neuronal and molecular changes that alter your behaviour, perspective, emotions, choices, decisions, and actions, which in turn cause changes in your environment, creating experiences that further influence your body, changing the way you respond, and so on.

What I’m striving for with this illustration is to shed light on my understanding of how you/we can foster better ways of adapting and managing change. In other words, how we can create stability through change and evolve with the changing times, thereby improving our physical and mental health and wellbeing and foster a more compassionate and humane society.
Again it is a work in process… and I’m awaiting Prof. Sapolsky’s view on this.

PS: The key message of Robert Sapolsky’s book Determined: A Science of Life Without Free Will is that human behaviour and decision-making are entirely shaped by a complex interplay of genetics, environmental influences, and individual experiences. Sapolsky argues that the concept of free will is an illusion, and our actions result from deterministic processes involving the body’s neuronal and molecular mechanisms, which influence behaviour and cognition.
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The Rise in Stress-related Physical and Mental Health Problems in the 21st Century: A conflict between biology and culture?

5/28/2024

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In our fast-changing world, stress has become a ubiquitous aspect of daily life. But why has stress, a general adaptive response meant to protect us, turned into a stressor that seems to harm us more than it helps? Does the answer lie in a conflict between biology and culture, or in other words, the concepts described in evolutionary medicine as evolutionary and developmental mismatches? Let’s take a look at these mismatch theories and see if they can shed light on the bigger picture.

Evolutionary Mismatch: A Legacy of Our Past

Evolutionary mismatch refers to the idea that the environment in which humans evolved differs vastly from the one we live in today. Our ancestors adapted to a world where immediate physical threats, food scarcity, and survival in the wild were the norm. The general adaptation response, involving the autonomic nervous system (ANS) and the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis—more commonly known as the stress response and characterised by the "fight or flight" mechanism—evolved to handle these acute, short-term threats effectively.
In the modern world, however, we face predominantly psychosocial stressors such as work pressure, financial concerns, and rapidly changing technological advancements that affect every aspect of our lives. These stressors are not typically life-threatening but are persistent, leading to prolonged activation of the general adaptation response. Our bodies, still wired for ancient dangers, respond to these modern stressors with the same neurohormonal and physical responses as they would to a predator attack, as there hasn’t been enough time for an evolutionary more apt adaptation to occur. This conflict between biology and culture, known as an evolutionary mismatch, may be one of the reasons for the rise in physical health problems today, including obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease, as well as mental health problems such as chronic stress, anxiety, and depression.

Developmental Mismatch: The Impact of Modern Lifestyles
Developmental mismatch, on the other hand, refers to the discrepancies that occur during an individual’s growth and development due to the environment they are exposed to at various stages. A mismatch because experiences for which we create protective or defence mechanisms during critical periods of development are different than the conditions/ experiences encountered later in life. These developmental mismatches can disrupt normal physiological and psychological development, leading to long-term health issues, including obesity, metabolic disorders, cognitive impairment and behavioural disorders


The Interplay of Evolutionary and Developmental Mismatches

Does the interplay between evolutionary and developmental mismatches compound the problem of stress in modern society? Our evolutionary heritage predisposes us to respond to stress in ways that are no longer appropriate for most contemporary challenges. At the same time, developmental mismatches exacerbate our vulnerability to stress by disrupting healthy growth and development. This interplay may indeed explain the rise in stress-related physical and mental health problems and why traditional treatment solutions often fall short, as they fail to address the underlying evolutionary and developmental causes.

To be continued...


References:

  • Dellink, A. (2019). Essay: An Evolutionary Explanation of Burnout.
  • Gluckman, P., Hanson, M. and Low, F. (2019). Evolutionary and developmental mismatches are consequences of adaptive developmental plasticity in humans and have implications for later disease risk. Phil. Trans. R. Soc.  374(1770): 20180109.
  • Hoogland, M., Ploeger, A. (2022°. Two Different Mismatches: Integrating the Developmental and the Evolutionary-Mismatch Hypothesis. Perspect Psychol Sci. 17(6):1737-1745.
  • Meyers, T. (2017). Stress: A conflict between biology and culture. Executive Support Magazine.

This article represents the ideas researched by Tom Meyers and created with the assistance of ChatGPT, ensuring a blend of expert insights and advanced AI support.

Tom Meyers is an osteopath (D.O. OSD, MSc. Ost), body-centred stress coach, and founder and instructor of The Reaset Approach, a therapeutic methodology and treatment modality designed to help individuals adapt, flourish, and thrive in the 21st century. Through workshops and writings, Tom aims to inform and revolutionise the field of manual therapy and empower therapists with the tools and knowledge to better serve their patients.
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Our Multigenerational Brain

4/23/2024

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Dive into the captivating journey of “Our Multigenerational Brain,” where the intricate workings of our minds mirror the rich dynamics of a family living under one roof. This enthralling exploration not only sheds light on the evolutionary marvel that is our brain but also draws a vivid analogy between its ancient and modern components and the generational interactions within a household. From the instinctual vigilance of the reptilian brain to the innovative spark of the neocortex, discover how these diverse elements of our consciousness clash, collaborate, and ultimately converge to guide us through the challenges of change. As we navigate the complexities of adapting to an ever-evolving world, this narrative offers a refreshing perspective on leveraging our inherent capacities for growth, resilience, and purposeful evolution. Uncover the art of balancing the wisdom of age with the curiosity of youth, not just to survive but to thrive in the face of the new and the unknown. “Our Multigenerational Brain” is more than an article; it’s an invitation to ponder, dream, and actively shape the future, embracing change not as an obstacle but as the essence of our humanity.

In the vibrant tapestry of human existence, the brain stands as a testament to our evolutionary journey, mirroring the complexities and dynamics of a multigenerational household. This fascinating analogy invites us to explore how different generations within a family — and correspondingly, different parts of our brain — interact, adapt, and evolve in the face of change.

At the core of our beings, nestled deep within the brain, resides what could be linked to the wise and steadfast grandparent: the reptilian brain. This ancient part of our brain is tasked with our most primal functions — those that ensure survival. It‘s the instinctual guardian of our basic life processes, responding to the world with a simplicity that has ensured the continuation of our species for millennia.
As we move through the layers of neural complexity, we encounter the limbic system, akin to the parental generation. This part of the brain enriches our lives with emotions and memories, guiding us through the social complexities of human relationships. It‘s the emotional heart of the household, fostering connections and ensuring the continuation of our deepest values and traditions.
Then, at the pinnacle of this cerebral hierarchy, shines the neocortex: the vibrant, curious child, brimming with potential and a thirst for innovation. This is the seat of our creativity, our problem-solving abilities, and our capacity for complex thought. It‘s what enables us to look beyond the horizon, to imagine, plan, and dream.
However, just as in any family, conflicts can arise. The reptilian brain, with its instinctual caution, often resists change, preferring the safety of the known. The neocortex, meanwhile, thrives on novelty and exploration, constantly seeking to expand the boundaries of our understanding and experience.
This internal tension mirrors the generational dynamics within a household, where the wisdom of age and the boldness of youth must find a common ground. Just as the younger generation can introduce their elders to the wonders of new technology, showing them the benefits of adapting to change, the neocortex can guide the more primitive parts of our brain towards a more harmonious response to new challenges.
But how can this be achieved without resorting to integrating technology? The answer lies in the art of gentle persuasion and the power of example. Just as a grandchild might patiently show a grandparent how to use a smartphone, highlighting its benefits and easing their fears, the neocortex can influence our more instinctual responses through gradual exposure to new experiences, scenarios, and future thinking — in other words, planning ahead — coupled with positive reinforcement.
Imagine confronting a fear of heights not by shying away from high places, but by gradually and safely exposing oneself to them, thereby teaching the reptilian brain that these situations are not a threat. Or consider the enriching process of learning a new skill later in life, which, though it challenges the brain‘s established patterns, ultimately leads to growth and a profound sense of achievement. Similarly, envision crafting a “DNA for the future“ — the core elements of our being that remain constant, yet can be expressed in myriad ways. This approach offers a method to construct ‘if this, then that‘ scenarios, providing the stability and security the reptilian brain seeks when confronted with new challenges.
In essence, the neocortex, with its capacity for reflection, planning, and foresight, can lead the way in adapting to change, teaching the rest of the brain that new experiences are not only manageable but also safe. This internal dialogue between the old and the new, the instinctual and the thoughtful, guiding our behaviour and actions going forward, can initiate a new step in our evolution. A step to flourish and thrive while the world around us is changing further and faster. Since our natural evolution is too slow, requiring generations to make the adaptive changes — time we do not have — the only option left to us is to help it evolve on purpose. It is what we are made to do.
In weaving together the threads of our discussion, we arrive at a poignant reflection on the essence of human resilience and adaptability, as mirrored in the intricate dance of generations within both our families and our minds. As the neocortex, our beacon of innovation and foresight, harmonises with the ancient, instinctual parts of our brain, we‘re reminded of the perpetual interplay between tradition and transformation. This delicate balance propels us forward, urging us not merely to adapt to the changing landscapes around us but to thrive within them.
Our journey through the multigenerational brain illuminates a profound truth: that embracing change is not just an act of survival but a testament to our inherent capacity for growth and evolution. It invites us to ponder, to dream, and to question how we can actively shape our future, rather than merely responding to it. In this moment of reflection, we‘re called to consider how our own internal dialogues, between the cautious wisdom of experience and the boundless curiosity of youth, can guide us toward a more harmonious and fulfilling existence.
As the world whirls around us, faster and more unpredictably than ever, our challenge — and indeed, our opportunity — is to harness the collective wisdom of all parts of our brain. By doing so, we not only honour the legacy of those who came before us but also lay the groundwork for generations yet to come. In this light, our multigenerational brain doesn‘t just offer a metaphor for adaptation; it embodies a blueprint for flourishing and thriving in an ever-evolving world. So let us step forward, with courage and purpose, into the future we wish to create, embracing the change not as a force to be feared, but as the very essence of what it means to be human.
I’d love to hear your thoughts on the analogy of the multigenerational family, as well as the emerging concept of ‘evolopsis’ that I am developing. Indeed, without the assistance of ChatGPT, this article might have remained just an idea in my brain.

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