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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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. Exploring New Frontiers in Long COVID-19 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 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:
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
By understanding and addressing the treatment mismatch, we can better serve our patients and adapt to the changing landscape of musculoskeletal health.
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:
Placebo Effect:
Reconciling the Two Concepts Belief and Expectation as Biological Phenomena:
Supporting Sources
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. 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.
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:
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.
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. Shifting Perspectives: From General Adaptation Syndrome (GAS) to General Adaptation Process (GAP)4/4/2024 Fast-changing times necessitate new concepts to navigate the evolving health and wellbeing challenges they bring.In an era marked by rapid changes and unprecedented challenges, where technology is ever more present, our approach to health and wellbeing to flourish and thrive, necessitates rethinking. This includes the rethinking of our foundational models. Do these models still serve us, or do they need revision? For example, the traditional concept of the General Adaptation Syndrome (GAS), introduced by Hans Selye, has long served as a foundational model in understanding stress and its effects on the human body. GAS outlines a three-stage reaction to stress: alarm, resistance, and exhaustion. While these stages haven’t changed, I believe as we navigate the complexities of modern life, wouldn’t a more positive, dynamic and proactive term or designation be more constructive? This article reflects on the benefits of transitioning from GAS to the General Adaptation Process (GAP) as a more fitting model when talking about stress. Understanding the Limitations of GAS With GAS stress is presented as a linear, somewhat predictable process with a clear endpoint. While this model has significantly advanced our understanding of stress-related illnesses and the body's response mechanisms, I feel it falls short in encapsulating the fluidity and variability of human experiences with stress in the 21st century. The designation of "syndrome" provokes in me that it is a pathological condition, potentially overshadowing the adaptive and positive aspects of dealing with stressors. Stress is after all essential to adapt and manage change and is not per se the problem. That the stress response hasn’t evolved at the same speed as the challenges we created, and the physical reaction it engendered due to our increasing biological footprint (see my previous article) and that it is triggered for things it doesn’t need to, that is the true issue we need to focus on. Introducing the General Adaptation Process (GAP) Instead of GAS, I propose another way of saying the same thing but with a more positive and constructive connotation, f the General Adaptation Process (GAP). Using the process instead of syndrome means the stress response is seen not as a finite sequence of stages but as an ongoing, cyclical process of learning, growth, and resilience-building. This shift in terminology from "syndrome" to "process" can also reflect a more nuanced understanding of how individuals interact with, adapt to, and recover from stressors over time. GAP embraces the complexity of these interactions, recognising them as integral to personal development and wellbeing. Embracing Complexity and Individuality As each individual’s encounter with stress is unique, influenced by a myriad of genetic, environmental, and personal factors, it is maybe also a good idea to move away from the more static model GAS represents. I feel that GAP allows for a more personalised understanding of stress, emphasising the importance of individual pathways to resilience and adaptation. Highlighting the Dynamic Nature of Adaptation By viewing adaptation as a process, GAP accentuates the dynamic and ever-changing nature of how we respond to life’s challenges. It encourages proactive engagement with stressors, highlighting the capacity for learning and growth inherent in each stress encounter. This perspective fosters a more optimistic outlook on stress, seeing it as an opportunity for personal development rather than solely a risk factor for disease. Encouraging an Integral Approach For me, GAP promotes a more integral approach to stress management, integrating physical, psychological, and social strategies. This encompasses a broad range of practices, from physical activity and nutrition, social support to creating a DNA for your future to futurize yourself, underscoring the multifaceted nature of effective adaptation. I also believe that GAP offers a more positive approach for individuals to conquer setbacks and will help them in the process of emerging from challenging situations with increased strength, skills, and wellbeing. By focusing on the process of adaptation, GAP emphasises the potential for positive transformation through the experience of stress. Conclusion
As we face new and complex challenges in health and wellbeing, adopting the General Adaptation Process as term or designation offers a more empowering and comprehensive framework for understanding and managing stress. Shifting from seeing stress as a syndrome to a process not only reflects a deeper understanding of the nuances of human adaptation but also aligns with a proactive and optimistic approach to life’s challenges. This shift encourages individuals to embrace the journey of adaptation as an opportunity for growth, resilience-building, and ultimately, a more fulfilling life. In doing so, we acknowledge that the path to wellness is not merely about surviving stress but thriving through it, harnessing our experiences to foster a richer, more adaptive existence. The concept of the “Biological Footprint,” which I introduced to capture the impact of our lifestyle, environment, and actions on our biological systems, delineates the influence of human activities and lifestyle choices on our inherent natural resources that are vital for health. This concept draws a parallel with the well-established notion of the “ecological footprint,” but it specifically focuses on our biological wellbeing as opposed to earth. This innovative idea sheds light on how the demands of our lifestyle, work, and ecological challenges caused by the anthropogenic environmental changes exert pressure on our innate resources, crucial for maintaining health and wellbeing. At present, our biological footprint is expanding, thereby straining our innate resources and leading to a.o. increased levels of stress, anxiety, musculoskeletal disorders, mental health problems and diminished wellbeing. With this concept I hope to introduction a deeper examination of how our everyday choices impact not only the environment but also our personal health in significant ways. It serves as a rallying cry for the adoption of more sustainable and health-conscious practices that benefit both our planet and ourselves. Creation and Purpose Through the development of The Reaset Approach, unveiled the idea of the Biological Footprint as a means to encapsulate the effects of our modern, often stress-laden lifestyles on our natural coping and adaptation resources, including the general adaptation syndrome (fight-flight response). The Reaset Approach itself heralds a paradigm shift in manual therapy, aiming to reaset the autonomic nervous system (ANS) and tackle the root causes of physical and mental health issues stemming from our contemporary way of living. The Biological Footprint concept was crafted to illuminate how our environment – encompassing work, technology, diet, physical inactivity, family life, lifestyle, and exposure to anthropogenic environmental changes – accumulate and manifest as tangible impacts on our health and wellbeing. Importance of Understanding the Biological Footprint Grasping the significance of one‘s Biological Footprint is crucial for multiple reasons:
Comparison with Ecological Footprint While the ecological footprint quantifies the environmental impact of human activities in terms of the land area needed to sustain their natural resource use, the Biological Footprint concentrates on the “internal environment.“ It evaluates the cumulative impact of lifestyle choices on an individual‘s biological systems, particularly the autonomic nervous system, crucial for stress response and overall health. Both concepts are underpinned by the principle of sustainability—just as we strive for a planet-sustainable lifestyle, we should also aspire for a body-sustainable lifestyle. Reducing Your Biological Footprint: A Pathway to Holistic Health Reducing your Biological Footprint transcends immediate work-related, lifestyle, and environmental changes, delving into a deeper transformation of your approach to life and wellbeing. The methodologies of developing a “DNA for Your Future“ and “Futurizing Yourself“ could play an important pivotal role in this journey, offering a forward-looking strategy for sustainable health and wellness. Developing a DNA for Your Future Creating a “DNA for Your Future“ involves thinking about what you want to feel, your aspirations and potential that do not alter but can be expressed in different ways over time. This strategy is the basis for Futurizing Yourself and through it you can:
Futurizing Yourself “Futurizing Yourself“ entails crafting a vision for your future based on your DNA for the future. By adopting this mindset, you can:
Practical Steps to Reduce Your Biological Footprint Merging the strategies of "Futurizing Yourself" and developing a "DNA for Your Future“ with existing actionable health-oriented measures can substantially reduce your Biological Footprint:
Conclusion Embracing the concept of reducing your Biological Footprint revolutionises your approach to health, turning the lens from a planetary scale to a deeply personal one. Unlike Planetary Health, which aims to understand and mitigate human activity‘s effects on Earth‘s natural systems, reducing your Biological Footprint spotlights your individual actions and their direct impact on your personal health and wellbeing. This nuanced view prompts us not just to consider how our lifestyles impact the planet but also to contemplate their resonance within our biological ecosystems. It beckons us to recognise that there is a relationship between our planetary sustainability and the stewardship of our own health. Aligning your daily choices with the tenets of both personal and planetary wellbeing not only contributes to the broader mission of Planetary Health but also sets us on a transformative path towards a more balanced and sustainable existence for ourselves. In this light, reducing our Biological Footprint emerges as a crucial component of the global endeavour to heal our planet, reminding us that our steps towards personal health optimisation have far-reaching effects, enhancing the collective wellbeing of our global community and the Earth itself. Note: This article was made in collaboration with ChatGPT.
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