I have been contemplating the importance of the words we use to describe our own inner experiences and communicate with others. Is there a power that these words carry with them, the capability to affect our moods? It wasn’t difficult to conclude that words possess the potential to uplift spirits, instill fear, or offer encouragement. Throughout our lives, we have become accustomed to the influence of the words that surround us. These whispers from within transmit their own unique frequencies and vibrations, resonating through our being and extending their influence outward.
Breaking the Cycle
My wife and I recently started reading a book about healing chronic pain (1). Within its pages, we encountered numerous examples of how the words we use to describe pain have an incredible effect on our perception of it and the subsequent actions we take. Our inner self-talk can exacerbate or alleviate the pain. Individuals experiencing chronic pain often perceive pain as a threat, and their minds become flooded with words like "I will never escape this pain" or "I am doomed," which only deepens their sense of hopelessness and despair. When we react to pain as a threat using words to indicate this perception, our bodies respond by activating a powerful fear-based stress system, which can further amplify the pain signals. This creates a vicious cycle where pain leads to negative self-talk, and negative words intensify the pain.
The treatment approach outlined in the book “The Way Out” focuses on gradually introducing messages of safety and reassurance through positive self-talk. By consciously using words and phrases such as "This is temporary. I am going to be okay" or "I am safe, and my body is fine," we can disrupt established patterns of pain escalation.
This treatment process involves retraining the brain and shifting the focus from pain as a danger signal to pain as a temporary sensation that does not pose a threat. Over time, repetitive use of positive self-talk is able to rewire the brain, leading to a reduction in pain perception and an improved sense of well-being. By understanding the impact of our inner self-talk and actively incorporating positive language, chronic pain sufferers empower themselves to break free from the cycle of pain, fear, and despair.
Neural Resonance
To broaden this perspective, I asked: How can we break away from any detrimental habits shaped by the impact of language on our minds? How do we free ourselves from the repercussions of negative self-talk, societal expectations communicated through language, or harmful narratives absorbed from various sources? Do we know what is needed to elicit words that support our true selves? How can we embody the essence of Erich Fromm's book "Escape from Freedom," (2) guiding us toward the cultivation of self-awareness and autonomy?
These questions don’t lead to straightforward answers. Instead, they make me curious and encourage me to continue on the path to better understand and further reflect on this topic. Rather than looking for fast solutions, I welcome the chance to challenge my views, question what I already know, and unearth new ideas.
What I discovered reinforced my belief in the transformative power of words, which, on the positive side, can not only lead to personal liberation but also enhance our capacity to form meaningful connections with others.
Brain scans have revealed that when people engage in compassionate, caring, and attentive ways of communication using words that support this attitude, and actively listen to one another, something called "neural resonance" occurs (3).
Neural resonance means that brains start to sync with each other. This synchronization happens through special cells called mirror neurons. Mirror neurons are like little mirrors that reflect the emotions and intentions of the person one is interacting with. When someone verbally or through gestures expresses a particular emotion toward us, mirror neurons in their brain fire, and the same mirror neurons in our own brain fire too. It is as if our brains are mimicking or mirroring each other's mental state.
The important finding is that a large number of these mirror neurons are located in the language centers of the brain. This highlights the importance of words used in shaping relationships.
Crafting Connections
Based on this understanding supported by scientific studies we can say with confidence that words play a vital role in our everyday interactions and relationships. They act as a conduit through which we express our thoughts, emotions, and ideas to others.
When we choose words with sensitivity and authenticity, we demonstrate respect and consideration for others. This mindful approach allows us to communicate in a way that acknowledges and validates other experiences, feelings, and perspectives.
Conversely, careless or hurtful words have a negative impact on our connections with others. They can cause misunderstandings, resentment, and emotional distance. Words spoken or written without empathy can leave lasting wounds or even cause fatal damage.
We have all heard about how social media bullying and harmful words, especially directed towards vulnerable individuals, have devastating consequences, including suicide or homicide. Those who become targets of cyberbullying often feel isolated, worthless, and constantly anxious about what others might say about them. Eventually, for some, the impact of these hurtful words can become unbearable, leading to a tragic loss of life.
Harnessing the Ripple Effect
This power of words can be likened to a force field. Just as a small pebble thrown into a calm lake creates ripples that expand outward, our words have a similar effect by creating waves of influence that reach far beyond our immediate surroundings.
Research has shown that there is a connection between the electromagnetic field generated by a beating heart and the state of one's mind. When the heart and mind are in coherence, working together in harmony, they emit a field of energy that goes beyond the individual and has the potential to affect the collective consciousness (4).
This concept suggests that by cultivating a state of awakened consciousness and using language mindfully and purposefully, one could contribute to the awakening of the world. Words, when spoken with authenticity, kindness, and wisdom, can become initiators for positive change, fostering understanding, empathy, and unity among people.
Words as Tools
At its core, language is a vehicle for ideas. When we express our ideas, beliefs, and values, we have the power to shape the way others perceive the world. Our words can inspire, motivate, and uplift, or they can discourage, divide, and harm.
The power of words lies not only in their literal meaning but also in the emotions they evoke and the images they create in the minds of listeners or readers.
Words have an inherent energetic quality. They carry vibrations and frequencies that resonate with others at a deep level. This realization leads me to assert that the words we use carry a weight of responsibility. As demonstrated in this text, our words possess the power to build or break, construct or destroy. Consequently, it is essential to select our words thoughtfully, considering their potential ramifications, and utilize them in a manner that promotes comprehension, empathy, and connection. In this way, we build a better world for ourselves and future generations.
1. The Way Out, by Alan Gordan, Avery, 2022
2. Escape from Freedom, by Erich Fromm, Holt Paperbacks, 1994
3. Words Can Change Your Brain, by Andrew Newberg and Mark Waldman, Avery, 2013
4. The Energetic Heart: Bioelectromagnetic Interactions Within and Between People, by Rollin McCraty, Neuropsychotherapist, 6: 22-43, 2003
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