HE ALTH & HE ALIN G


than that really. It seems odd at first, but our conscious-self and subconscious-self have different values and beliefs. Simply speaking, our subconscious-


self acts based on a belief-system and set of values that has been inherited, mimicked and learned involuntarily on a subconscious level, whereas our conscious-self draws


conclusions based on freewill and what we would really like for ourselves. You’ve probably noticed — it’s


instinctual to seek and maintain comfort, and to avoid discomfort — right? Makes sense. It maximises the chances of survival, of tribal harmony, and minimises the danger of being hurt. This is inherited, mimicked and


believe what this really means. The consequences are profound, even on the most basic level. Candace Pert, PhD, famously linked


the release of neuropeptides with emotions, beliefs and the way these interact with our body’s cells. This means that we are rewarded chemically when we maintain our beliefs, behaviour, and our sense of self (ego/identity). In other words, we are chemically addicted to keeping things as they are, even when we’d rather prefer change. No wonder it seems like we are up


against some kind of invisible force whenever we wish or plan for change! We keep coming up against psychological barriers. Normally our conscious selves are unaware of the brain’s wiring and


9 SUPPLEMENTS TO SUPPORT POSITIVE CHANGE


1DHA omega 3 DHA is an omega-3 essential fatty


acid that is a major building block of the brain. It is crucial for the brain’s function and for proper function of the nervous system.


2Ginkgo biloba Ginkgo is one of the most widely


used herbal remedies in the world, specifically to treat brain-related problems, such as poor concentration, forgetfulness, mental confusion, fatigue, depression, and anxiety.


learned behaviour. This is subconscious behaviour. Then there’s the part of us that would


love to break free of the norm. It has observed and knows it has choices and can choose to live differently. So it is conscious. However as it makes moves towards change, the subconscious finds some way to put the brakes on, or finds a way to sabotage the plan. According to research, the limbic


brain assumes that, for the best chance of survival, we must ‘maintain our position’, and with it, our identity and corresponding beliefs. To this end, it dispenses neuropeptides ensuring we maintain beliefs and patterns that keep us ‘in position’. Neuropeptides are key signalling


chemicals that influence the activity of the brain and body. You won’t


12 JULY 2015


ignorant of our subconscious processes. It would come as news to most that


we are addicted to our own internally- dispensed brain-chemicals; so that we maintain our patterns. No wonder we may feel powerless to effect meaningful change in our lives! No wonder good people often make bad choices, and no wonder so many of us end up depressed and potentially on anti-depressives. So what can we do when we DO want


change? How can we bring the subconscious-


self around to cooperating with the conscious-self? How can we cultivate the required


awareness to know when there’s an internal conflict of interest? Here are some ways to support


your body, your brain, your mood and cognitive function during times of change.


3Antioxidants


Antioxidants are almost exclusively


found in plant foods, with deeply coloured berries at the top of the list. Unless you’re eating the recommended seven to nine servings of fruit and vegetables daily, you almost certainly aren’t getting enough antioxidants to support brain health.


4Vinpocetine Vinpocetine, derived from the


periwinkle plant, is a herbal extract that increases blood flow to the brain. It may improve memory and brain function and European studies claim it is more effective than ginkgo biloba.


5Bacopa Bacopa has a bittersweet cooling


effect, and is said to support the brain function, harmonise the nervous system,


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