Experiential Learning:

The Cycle Tool

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2

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Reconsolidation Paradox

Brain States needed for activation: 4 and 5

Brain State optimal for targeted neuroplasticity: 1

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Reconsolidation Paradox

Cycle Tool and limbic connection fill in the “gap” to

enable targeted adaptive neuroplasticity.

Tools andSupport

The Cycle Tool • Strong Counter-memoriesTargeted, self-directed neuroplasticity for erasing circuits without always requiring co-regulation with a provider.

• Avoids Relaxation without ReconsolidationRelaxation results in missed opportunity to reconsolidate.

• Promotes Emotional EvolutionUses stress to target unreasonable expectation and hedonic reward and reconsolidate as reasonable expectation and eudonic reward.

• Effective Self-regulationFacilitates rapid switch from Brain State 4 to Brain State 1.

The Cycle Tool

BRAIN STATE 1: UNLOCK THE CIRCUIT

Just the Facts: State the facts. What are you most stressed about. Do not express feelings. 2 or 3 sentences only.

Express Allostatic Anger (“A+ Anger”) Express anger, in short, choppy sentences, really get angry. I feel angry that . . I can’t stand it that . . I hate it that . . . Up to 20 times.

The Cycle Tool

BRAIN STATE 3: SWITCH THE CIRCUIT

State and Feel Homeostatic Feelings (Sadness, Fear, Guilt) State 1 to 3 sentences for each feeling, pausing between statements to feel the feeling.

Unreasonable Expectation? Of course you would feel guilty that . . . Because your unreasonable expectation is . . . (Most common: I do not exist. I am bad. I have no power.)

Reasonable Expectation? What is the reasonable expectation? (Most common: I do exist. I am not bad. I do have power.)

The Cycle Tool

BRAIN STATE 1: LOCK IN NEW CIRCUIT

• Grind In (Repeat opposite): Based on Hebb’s Law, neurons that fire together wire together and get stronger and the opposite ones get weaker. State the opposite to weaken the circuit. (Add the word “not”). First repeat slowly without emotion. Then with enthusiasm. Finally spiral up to Brain State 1 (positive affect, even singing and dancing 5 to 50 times).

• Connecting Message by clinician or support group participants: When you did your Cycle, the feelings and sensations in my body were . . The way your work was a gift to me was . . .

Experiential Learning:

Audio Program 2: Cycle Tool