In this episode of BrainWise: Our Lives Decoded, hosts Cole Bastian and Phil Dixon conclude their discussion on the five non-conscious dynamics of the brain by focusing on stress, change, and rhythms. They share personal anecdotes and practical tips for managing stress, understanding and adapting to change, and honoring the brain's natural rhythms. Strategies like deep breathing, creating circuit breakers, and respecting daily and circadian rhythms are discussed. The episode emphasizes the importance of recognizing how these dynamics affect our mood and performance, and provides reflection questions to help listeners apply these concepts in their lives.

Key BrainWise Tips and Major Takeaways

1. Embrace Optimal Stress: Identify when you are under optimal stress and work on staying within that zone. Too much or too little stress can impair performance.
2. Deep Breathing for Stress Management: Incorporating two minutes of deep breathing can reduce stress and prepare you to handle challenges effectively, enhancing your emotional resilience for the day.
3. Visual Circuit Breakers: Develop a mental image or "happy place" you can focus on to interrupt stress in the moment, providing an immediate circuit breaker for heightened emotions.
4. Channel Change Positively: Acknowledge and grieve the losses associated with change to transition more smoothly and gain a more positive perspective on new opportunities.
5. Honor Natural Rhythms: Identify your peak times of productivity—whether you're an "owl" or a "lark"—to maximize efficiency and creativity during those periods.
6. Recognize Personal Rhythms: Use the 90-minute energy cycle by working in bursts and taking breaks to maintain productivity throughout the day.
7. Reframe Stressful Situations: Use reframing to see challenges as learning opportunities rather than failures, shifting your stress about change to a positive narrative.
8. Practice Gratitude: Reflect on what you're grateful for each day to maintain a positive mindset, even amid stress and change.
9. Avoid Unnecessary Hustle: Create a schedule that respects your mental and physical limits. Remind yourself that optimizing and valuing quality over quantity leads to better outcomes.
10. Ask for Support: In times of change, seek help by asking others how they can support you. This fosters empathy and understanding, making transitions smoother.