The Reticular Activating System “RAS” is basically the filter for our brain. It saves us time in processing our experience by filtering our world to suit what we routinely think, speak and do. This is why it can be difficult to introduce new habits. We all know that what we resist persists (thanks RUMI), the RAS makes that possible. For example, you're having a crappy day and it feels like everyone is being rude or inconsiderate but then you see a puppy and you start seeing and experiencing other things you like.
When we train our mind to work with us, or rather when we put a new filter on our RAS, it gets easier to experience a world that we enjoy living in because our RAS will only filter experience into our reality that supports our desire for authentic pleasure.
Think about how you routinely relate to food and your body. What kind of filter (thoughts and emotions) do you have when it comes to being around foods that are “triggers” or “tempting”? Then ask yourself, is this supporting the new relationship with food and my body I am working to create? Exploring this dynamic and getting really clear on what the current setpoint is for your RAS can help you determine where you need to shift your filter.
This is why I focus on pleasure with my clients rather than willpower. Willpower is great to begin a new habit but it’s not a sustainable resource for long-standing change. But it’s pretty evident that we all want to experience pleasure. When we focus on increasing pleasure, it becomes natural to move towards foods and a way of approaching life that is in alignment with pure pleasure.
