Uptight at the pool?

I love birthdays, holidays & vacations because I tend to be more present than everyday life. I slow down, take in my surroundings and the people around me more. I think summertime provides a lot of moments to be more present but what if it’s difficult for you to actually relax and enjoy? Does your brain seem to still be in “get it done” mode while you are sitting by the pool? Let’s talk about why this is happening!

Last month I took part in an online workshop taught by Dr. Jill Bolte Taylor. I highly recommend her books and famous TED talk if you aren’t familiar with her story. Here are a few descriptions about the brain from her book, “Whole Brain Living.”

“…we each have four distinctive groups of cells, divided between our two brain hemispheres, that generate four consistent and predictable personalities. Neuroanatomically these four groups of cells make up the left and right thinking centers of our higher cerebral cortex, as well as our left and right emotional centers of our lower limbic system. Collectively, I call these personalities the Four Characters. Getting to know them inside of your brain is your ticket to freedom.” (pg. 11)

“…the two halves of our brain house completely different character profiles that each exhibit unique wants, dreams, interests, and desires.” (pg. 31)

So what does this mean? If you feel uptight at the pool it’s because Characters 1 & 2 of your left hemisphere are doing their job and making it a little difficult for Characters 3 & 4 to come online and be present with your pool day. Truly, nothing is wrong with you.

Here is short (longer list in her book, pgs.32-33) comparison of these characters:

See how each hemisphere is very different! It makes sense that you may experience tension between the two, especially if you favor Characters 1 & 2.

So here’s a little something to LEARN & TRY…

Your brain is doing exactly what it was meant to do. With a little awareness and intentionality you can step to the “right”—meaning choose the right hemisphere. I like to express my appreciation and validation to Characters 1 & 2 for working so hard every day but then remind them that right now I’m going to be present with the pool and my people!

Hope you are having a wonderful summer!

Stephanie

PS- If you experience a lot of guilt or regret for not being present with others then click here to learn about overcoming those feelings. Next week I’ll share my thoughts about this topic ONLY in my summer email series so click above and subscribe.