Experiencing different modes of attention
In discussions about Iain’s work, I find repeatedly that there is an implicit assumption that we know... View more
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Re: The practice of shifting modes of attention.
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Re: The practice of shifting modes of attention.
In The Matter of Things Iain mentions Jill Bolt-Taylor (the neuroscientist that suffered a left hemisphere stroke) on several occasions. She has published a second book titled ‘Whole Brain Living’. Although I am not a fan of the way she names the 4 characters of the brain as she sees them, I understand that it is done to reach a lay audience and I feel sure that every one of us has had the experience of attention being focused on each of these four functional modules/circuits she describes. I would be interested to hear if anyone has any views as to the usefulness of this book.
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2 Replies
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Hi Sarah,
Can you outline the 4 modes the book focuses on? Shifting attention is a rich area to explore.
Best,
Whit
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Hi Whit
I will do my best to summarise the 4 modes Jill describes.
1.
The left hemisphere thinking brain (cortex based) – rational, ego based consciousness. Thinks in language.
2.
Left hemisphere emotional circuitry – ever vigilant for danger, controls fear, anger and anxiety and can inhibit other three modes. Learning, memory and ego all contribute to the experience.
3.
Right hemisphere emotional circuitry – purely experiential, the being in the here and now, in the flow. Uninhibited by memory, fearless, impulsive, stimulus seeking, playful, friendly. Brings experience of joy and empathy.
4.
Right hemisphere thinking brain – the consciousness you are born with before learning and language. Intuits connection to and feels at one with the boundless universe. Experiences Awe, Beauty and Peace.
Her method for shifting focus is called the Brain Huddle. Uses the mnemonic below.
B for Breath – hit the pause button by slowing breathing and counting to ten, there by
Interrupting emotional reactivity
R for recognise – which circuit is running
A for Appreciate – the importance of that circuit but also what other modes could add
I for Inquire – bring out her 3 modes to mind to see which is best to counter the present
mode
N for Navigate – a way forward using a balance of all 4 modes.
Jill quotes The Master and His Emissary and I think most of what she says reflects Iain’s views but she has the added bonus of experience.
Hope this is of interest. If you manage to read either ‘My Stroke of Insight’ or ‘Whole Brain Living’ I would be glad to hear your views.
Best
Sparticle
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