24 Oct Our three motivational systems
Dr Ronald D. Siegel in his work on mindfulness states that we
have three broad motivational systems that we use for survival;
1/ The fight-or-flight system (threat system)
We instantly go into this state when we sense danger and our bodies are prepared
to run, fight or freeze. This system involves the activation and production of
adrenaline. This state starts with activation in the amygdala. For most people
this is a highly stressful state. Our minds are hard wired to jump to
the worst conclusions just to be on the safe side, this means we enter this state
far more often then necessary and our thoughts can often make us hold on to our
fears making them last unnecessarily long.
2/ The achievement/goal-seeking system (drive system)
In this state we are competing, striving and working our way through different
tasks and challenges. Depending on our confidence this can either by stressful
or exciting. In this state we are often chasing after positive emotions and running
away from anything negative. This operates on dopamine. It also
involves activation of the nucleus accumbens, which is the same
brain area that is activated by crack cocaine, winning prizes, and any form of
achievement.
3/ The tend-and-befriend system (compassion system)
This is the system that is active when, for example, we are surrounded by friends
and family and having a good time. While in this system we experience
feelings of contentment, safety, and connection.
In Dr Siegels’ words:
“The tend-and-befriend system involves the neurotransmitter
oxytocin. This is generated largely in the pituitary, which has fibers
going into other parts of the brain. It?s the tend-and-befriend system
that allows for compassion. The problem is that the tend-and-befriend
system is very easily overridden by the threat system and,
to a lesser degree, by the drive system.”
Practicing Loving-Kindness meditation can make it easier for us to access
and stay in our tend-and-befriend system. This allows us to experience
more of those feelings of contentment, safety, and connection.
Try it for yourself!
Dean.
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