Scientific studies have found that there are many neuroscientific techniques which help in the growth of new brain cells. Visualisation is prominent amongst those techniques. Its practice involves creating imagery in the mind. It is widely used in the fields of Yoga, sports psychology and other professional training. The growth of new brain cells through different techniques is called neurogenesis. Till 1990 it was widely believed that every person has fixed neurons in his brain which decay in course of time as one advances in age. But the discovery of the neuroplasticity of the brain has completely revolutionised this field and proved that new brain cells grow in the brain. According to neuroscience, the brain does not differentiate between the real and the imagined.

 

Hence visualising a thing or any event almost produces the same impact on the brain as if it is really happening. It is found that mere imaginations activate the neural structure of the brain. Meditational practices have been found to have created new neural circuits in the brain. The brain centres like the prefrontal cortex which is responsible for thinking, reasoning, decision making, etc are strengthened by visualisation. Asaresult of the strengthening of the prefrontal cortex the capability to control emotions also enhances and one’s cognitive abilities also increase.

 

This process leads to self regulation and self control. There is no emotional hijack and one is able to stand in the face of crisis. Since emotions are well regulated, so stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline are also lowered down. Studies have found that memory increases and creativity enhances. Physical output is also found to have increased. New brain cells positively increase physical efficiency also.

 

This is the result of the unbroken body mind connect. The mind impacts the body much more than the body affects the mind. There are numerous visualisation techniques described in the Yogic and Tantric texts. Yoga Nidra or Yogic sleep uses the visualisation technique in a very effective way. Kundalini Yoga is predominantly based upon visualisation. The different Chakra meditation uses visualisation techniques. Similarly, Kriya Yoga uses the breath work with the technique of visualisation. Thus these Yogic visualisation techniques are potential tools of spiritual awakening.Asimple Yogic technique based upon visualisation is described below. It is highly relaxing and soothing to the nervous system; Sit in a relaxed posture.

 

Keep the spine, neck and head erect. Keep both hands on the lap. Inhale for two seconds, hold the breath for three seconds, exhale for four seconds and again hold the breath for two seconds. It will be a cycle of breathing for eleven seconds. The duration may be lessened or increased as per the tolerance and capability. The only important practice is that exhalation should be longer as it relaxes the nervous system. After five minutes, just visualise any positive event or happening. The practice will generate new neurons and circuits in the brain over a period of time. The same technique of visualisation is used in the process of hypnosis also. CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) uses visualisation techniques in a big way in the treatment of anxiety and mental disorders. (The writer is Former DG Police & CG, Homeguards, Maharashtra) ■