The AmgdalaUSING THE BODY TO CONTROL EMOTION AND FIX PTSD

Where is the Amygdala?

The Amygdala

The amygdala is a bundled network of neurons, about one inch in length that is responsible for emotions, moods, and other functions related to depression and anxiety. It is located within the limbic system, deep within the brain

The lateral amygdala receives inputs from sight, sound, touch, taste and

pain systems. The medial nucleus receives inputs from the olfactory system.

The Amygdala

The amygdala receives inputs from all senses as well as visceral inputs. Since the amygdala is very important in emotional learning it is not surprising that visceral inputs are a major input source.

The central nucleus of the amygdala produces autonomic components of emotion (e.g., changes in heart rate, blood pressure, and respiration) primarily through output pathways to the lateral hypothalamus and brain stem.

The Amygdala

● Many mental health disorders may be associated with imbalances in neurotransmitters which are the chemicals that influence the activity of brain cells that regulate mood, pleasure, and rational thought (Kandal, 1998).

● The amygdala plays a key role integrating overt behavior, autonomic responses, and hormonal response during stress and emotion.

● Activity in the amygdala is elevated among patients/clients with depression or anxiety disorders.

The Amygdala

We can choose to stimulate the amygdala forward, turning on the reward centers for positive emotions.

When the amygdala is stimulated forward it's sending signals to the frontal lobes. This is where the brain handles cognitive functions such as long-term decision making and appropriate social actions. These functions can play a major role in determining levels of success and happiness.

When the amygdala signals backwards it's inducing a fear response.

The Amygdala

By noticing the difference in thought processes you can consciously control the direction which the amygdala sends its impulses.

The goal is to remove the environmental anxiety or imbalance thus enabling the creation of a truly therapeutic environment.

Stimulating the amygdala with regular practice can help you enter a psychological state of flow. In this state you can easily overcome problems and disregard distractions.

Anger, Fear, or Grief, which one are you?

Anger-Hidden anger often covertly induces self-failure.

Fear-You can only do one of three things, when you face a threat (fear). Do something about it, avoid it, or live with it.

Grief-Grief is a social emotion, which triggers pain.

The General Adaptation Syndrome● A pattern of stress responses consisting of three stages: alarm, resistance, and

exhaustion (Insel & Roth, 2010).

Flight or

Flight Response

The Amygdala

Practicing meditation, living creatively and being positive are some things you can do to improve your amygdala's responses. Certain practices may take more time and effort, but the outcome is incredibly rewarding.

There are plenty of engaging exercises you can do to stimulate positive responses. Any time you use imaginative thought processes you're stimulating the frontal lobes.

The Amygdala…Activities

Recall a frustrating situation. Imagine feeling relaxed and control in this situation. Can you consider another solution to your problem in this resourceful state?

Everyone has issues in their life that sometimes seem unsolvable. What would you do if you didn't have to deal with those problems? Imagine how you would feel if you knew how to solve those problems.

The Amygdala…Activities

The Amygdala…Activities