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In the depths of our minds, an ancient impulse stirs. Our reptilian brain, forged in the fires of survival on the
savannahs, remains an integral part of us. This primal force was once a lifesaver, swiftly categorizing and
labeling threats to ensure our very existence. It’s a relic from a bygone era, when every moment counted and the
difference between life and death hung precariously in the balance.

But as we’ve evolved and migrated to urban oases, this primal function has become less relevant. We no longer face
life-or-death situations daily, so why do we still rely on it when faced with psychological perils? The labels we
give ourselves or others can be a source of suffering, yet we often default to these ancient instincts, allowing
them to guide our reactions and decisions.

New Habits

Thirty-five thousand years ago, our brain underwent a revolutionary transformation, granting us the capacity for more nuanced responses. Like upgrading from a stone-age hammer to a precision computer-controlled device, we’ve been endowed with the means to respond with greater sophistication. This new brain allowed us to contemplate, reason, and empathize, giving rise to complex societies and cultures.

When someone offends or labels us, do we really need to wield the blunt instrument of our reptilian brain? Can’t we instead tap into this newer, more advanced tool and craft responses that sow love rather than hate? By embracing our evolved selves, we can transcend the limitations of our primal past and respond with the precision and elegance of a master artist.

But it’s not just about upgrading from one level to another. It’s about acknowledging the ongoing dialogue between these two parts of our brain – the ancient, instinctual part that still drives many of our reactions, and the newer, more reflective part that allows us to choose how we respond. By cultivating awareness of this dynamic, we can begin to shift our default settings from automatic pilot to conscious choice.

The Rewards

This isn’t a one-time achievement.  It’s an ongoing process of integration and growth. It requires patience, self-awareness, and a willingness to confront the parts of ourselves that we may have previously suppressed or denied. But the rewards are well worth the effort – greater empathy, compassion, and understanding for ourselves and others, as well as a deeper sense of connection and belonging in this world.

So let us learn to wield our new hammer, forging paths of understanding, compassion, and peace in the world around us. Let us honour the wisdom of our reptilian brain while also embracing the capacities of our evolved selves. By doing so, we can create a more harmonious and just world – one where love, rather than hate, is the guiding force that shapes our actions and decisions.

❤️One Love